When a new product uses a domain name you own....

[thecat]

So I bought RS1.co.uk a while back (hold the .uk as well) and now Audi have announced the RS1 due for release in 2017.

The page is getting traffic every day (5-10) and is listed on Sedo.

Any ideas on how to sell it and a sensible value?

 

[ian]

Check to see when Audi official registered the "RS1" name; chances are it out-dates your registration. With that in mind, it would be wreckless to approach Audi to purchase, as would it be uploaded a website relating to cars (make sure the Sedo ads don't either). If your target is a buyer within the automotive industry, then the only course of action I'd recommend is what you are doing, a holding page, nothing more, and wait and see if anyone approaches you.

Edit - it does, they registered the trademark for RS1 in 2011 and you registered the domain in 2014, which would leave you in a losing battle (imo), so best to stick with a holding page only and never reference the car industry anywhere.

 

[Edwin]

Perhaps ask Admin to v kindly delete this thread, just in case?

 

[thecat]

Tbf that's a trademark made in Germany. We are in the UK, and soon to leave the EU, so surely all I need to do is hold on to it and wait for us to leave the EU?

 

[Bailey]

I would guess it was getting 100+ hits a month before anyway. I doubt anybody would come after you just for the reasonable and recognisable RS1 ( unless you suddenly pointed to auto/car-sites)

Wasn't this the designate for Fords Rally-Sport from years ago anyway ?? RSTURBO etc. I think your on Pretty-safe Ground anyway which way you go - put a reasonable Price on it - And let it be seen, is what i'd do if it were mine.

I doubt your buyer would be anything to do with Audi anyway. www.rs1.de etc,etc Bit like Ford Now wanting everything 'Galaxy'

Ask £1,500
Settle around £800
Domainlore about £120
Just my guesstimates

 

[thecat]

Thanks guys and yes it is up for sale on Sedo.

It was owned by a bike company before I bought it, not sure why they let it drop but they did.

Appreciate the guidance and information.

 

[ian]

Tbf that's a trademark made in Germany. We are in the UK, and soon to leave the EU, so surely all I need to do is hold on to it and wait for us to leave the EU?

It's a trademark valid in the UK though, they likely have the same trademark in all countries across the globe, so being in or out of Germany or Europe has no relevance.

 

[Bailey]

Ian I will question that on 'date, prior usage etc. My example of the .de (German) domain was just to show Audi are Unlikely to be trying to 'Close Down' (or buying) any use of the simple reference term. RS1. I certainly wouldn't advise anticipating any sale to Audi. (which the original poster may or may not have alluded to) But I wouldn't be scared of leaving it on Sedo either.
My estimations were just a reflection of the memorability and association to 'Rally-Sport' which has history.
Too many people have 'Preconceptions' about domains (and occasionally TradeMarks) - which aren't really realistic, I'm not a supporter of 'Exaggeration' from any angle.

PS.I also notice RS1.COM is up for (advertised) sale at US$30,000 (price not disclosed on the homesite)

 

[ian]

Ian I will question that on 'date, prior usage etc. My example of the .de (German) domain was just to show Audi are Unlikely to be trying to 'Close Down' (or buying) any use of the simple reference term. RS1. I certainly wouldn't advise anticipating any sale to Audi. (which the original poster may or may not have alluded to) But I wouldn't be scared of leaving it on Sedo either.
My estimations were just a reflection of the memorability and association to 'Rally-Sport' which has history.
Too many people have 'Preconceptions' about domains (and occasionally TradeMarks) - which aren't really realistic, I'm not a supporter of 'Exaggeration' from any angle.

PS.I also notice RS1.COM is up for (advertised) sale at US$30,000 (price not disclosed on the homesite)

I agree with you, but read back, I never suggested that having a holding page with it for sale is a bad idea, but the OP specifically referenced Audi in the reasoning for the domain name, so therefore his best course of action would be avoid any urge to approach them, any car manufacturer, or have any reference to that industry on his holding page (including click campaigns etc). The trademark is valid in the UK, so the OP isn't protected against action and this thread, which specifically shows 'intent' could be used against the owner, imo

 

[anthony wood]

I agree with Ian and Bailey on some points but I personally would not be concerned about approaching Audi ( either myself or through an agent or lawyer ) IF

1. You could find out if you have owned it before they decided on using it for their brand product.

Or 2. Even if it turns out they had proof of intention to use this term even before you registered the domain IF there is no way on earth you could have known.

They would have kept all information regarding this product development under lock and key until they chose to disclose it so if you have no connections to anyone in the innner sanctum and had registered this between their starting on the project in secret and disclosing it publicly then you are safe. It would be negligent of such a brand giant to not take steps to own this domain in good time if they wanted to own ( even if no one thought at the time it is still negligent ) it eventually

If they have spent such a fortune on developing a product that requires this term then chances are they do not want anyone else being able to use it as it is seemingly their term. ( except if you registered it in all innocence in appropriate time as stated above)

If they do not want to buy it from you they cannot legally stop you selling it elsewhere as it became your property when you thought it up ( invented it ) if as I say done under genuine circumstances as above.

Approach them ( try get a lawyer or investor to do so for a share ) but do not hold them to ransom, approach them harmoniously with respect but confidence and explain the situation ( I can elaborate further if you need and PM me )

Do not allow them to bully you it is >> harassment << ( though they won’t not in today’s social network arena ) two years ago a multi billion dollar company tried to get a trademark I owned I stood my ground politely and respectfully by myself against their top London lawyers and sorted it all to my perfect satisfaction.

So you are entitled to payment for this from them or if they don’t want to anyone who does want to use it just as they would reward a top agency to come up with marketing or other initiatives to promote their product to market.

Hope this helps a little

Have a good day everyone

 

[keys]

This is an old thread. The previous post was August 2016.

 

[anthony wood]

Yes I did realise but I thought the info might come in for others if not for the original guy

Thanks for telling me though
Cheers