Collectors know that authenticity is everything. A signed soccer jersey can either be the centerpiece of a collection or a constant source of doubt, depending on how well it is authenticated. That is where Beckett comes in, and more importantly, where Walkouts brings real added value to the process.
Paul de Metter, Founder of Walkouts, explains:
“We know the feeling of believing in a piece and later discovering it is not authentic. It loses all of its magic. That is why we make authentication a top priority.”
Why Beckett?
Beckett is one of the most trusted authenticators worldwide, especially in the North American market. They combine forensic science with expert analysis, which sets them apart from companies relying on expert judgment alone. Beckett’s methods provide a higher level of certainty, something collectors increasingly demand.
Walkouts’ Added Value
For European collectors, sending items to the US for authentication is often complicated and expensive. Walkouts bridges that gap.
Paul continues:
“Most of our shirts and autographs come from Europe. We specialize in sending items with photo and video proof to Beckett in the US, ensuring they are authenticated and graded, while keeping the process affordable for our buyers.”
This means collectors in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East can enjoy the same level of trust and confidence as North American buyers, without the hassle of arranging authentication themselves.
Grading and Online Proof
Another unique aspect is Beckett’s grading system. With higher-level grading, the Beckett database includes a photo of the exact shirt and signature. This allows buyers to confirm the piece online, beyond the sticker on the shirt.
“With valuable early signatures like Lamine Yamal, Beckett grading has significantly boosted market prices because collectors can actually see the signed piece in the online database,” Paul explains.
The North American Standard
Collectors in the US and Canada are used to dealing with high-value baseball and football jerseys. They value authentication and quality over price. European collectors often put more weight on affordability, but Walkouts believes the market is shifting.
Paul concludes:
“Soccer collectibles should bring you closer to the game and give you joy, not disappointment. Once you have been burned by a fake, you never forget that feeling. We want to make sure our collectors never have to experience it.”