AUCT IONS
Hammer Under the WHETHER YOU FANCY YOURSELF AS AN ANTIQUES AFICIONADO OR HAVE AN EYE FOR FINE ART, HERE IS OUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO YOUR FIRST AUCTION
WORDS BY MIRIAM BALANESCU
rom unique jewellery to music memorabilia, vintage tractors to sought-after stamps, there’s an auction for all. These sales
promise gems hidden away from the high street, and are the place to enrich your knowledge and meet fellow enthusiasts. Frequented by private collectors, trade buyers or interior designers, it’s guaranteed you’ll encounter fascinating people. These events are famous for keeping attendees on the edge of their seats. With the escalating anticipation before, the day itself brings palpable suspense; all wait with bated breath as the auctioneer speedily chants and bidders race to snag their lot. Over the past two years, the world of auctions has been remoulded, with the move online opening UK-based auctions to global audiences. Their popularity was propelled as hospitality and tourism receded, with money funnelled into internet purchasing instead. However, many auctioneers are glad to return to the saleroom, including Ronnie Thompson from Cambridge-founded auction house Biddys. “There’s a better atmosphere and it helps keep our client base local.” Roddy Lloyd, managing director at Ely-based Rowley’s, agrees: “The more people in the room, the more exciting the auction.” Navigating your first may feel intimidating, as auctions have their own language which can seem impenetrable. But, reassures Martin Millard, director at Cheffins: “They are for everyone. Many imagine that auctions are full of oil paintings with enormous reserves, and solely the mainstay of serious collectors or dealers – this is definitely not the case.”
A PLACE LIKE NO OTHER Auctions, such as those at Cheffins (above), offer a fantastic opportunity to curate a home that is truly unique. Where else could you find such a mix of singular, eclectic pieces?
THAT’S YOUR LOT To find the right auction for you, keep an eye on those happening all around Cambridgeshire, and consider registering with different auction houses for notifications on what’s happening. If your heart is set on a particular item, there are specialised auctions galore. “Websites such as thesaleroom.com livestream auctions from all over the country. These could be a good starting point for anyone looking out for something specific, particularly through the use of wish list facilities,” recommends Martin. Be mindful of the nuances between various types of auction: some take place solely online, while others hold physical viewings on certain days or between specific time frames before in-person bidding. Buyer’s premiums fluctuate, depending on what is being sold, and property auctions usually request an immediate deposit. Read the buying and selling guides carefully before attending. Still unsure? Beginners can ease in by starting out with auctions that only peak at the £1,000 mark, before taking on more expensive sales. One can also sit in on an auction without making a bid, to become familiarised with the structure.
52 MARCH 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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