I think this all needs to be taken in an overall perspective.
I will fly my colours straight away by saying I am not a fan of the pinball auction.
However, Rian has decided to plan and host the expo AND more importantly put up the funds to do so.
In doing that he has a perogative to determine the manner in which the expo runs and how he can raise part of these funds and he has determined that an auction is the way to achieve this.
At the end of the day anyone in the pinball community, commercial or private has had ample opportunity to establish an expo over the past few years. No-one has.
Rian has decided to take up the reins and that should be applauded.
As the expo evolves there will be changes.
No-one is ever going to please everyone.