Is it a red flag if the seller refuses to do a face to face transaction

[bluerolex]

Is it just me. Or is it a red flag if the seller refuse to do a face to face transaction even if both parties are local.

Basically the seller just will only accept wire transfer then arrange for pickup or send out the piece after the funds clear even for people who are in their local area.

Will not accept things like going to the bank and having funds directly drawn out and deposited into the sellers account. Or hand the seller the cash so they can deposit it into the bank.

Of course having the piece authenticated at a watcher maker or jewelers then have the cash changes hands is out of the question.

The buyer's basic reason for not doing the above mention is that he is too busy and his word is good.