Auction Recap: Highlights from our January 2025 Auction
As we conclude our first auction of the year, we reflect on the impressive results and notable surprises that made the event remarkable. With a total of 1,474 lots, there was a treasure trove of items for every collector.
The ceramics and glass segment continues to shine, with standout pieces achieving exceptional prices. Lot 7, the Moorcroft Charles Rennie Mackintosh Vase designed by Rachel Bishop, fetched an admirable £140 on the hammer. Additionally, a charming Franz Porcelain Ladybird and Daisy tea set with tray saw a successful sale at £160. However, the star of the show was the stunning Okra Gold iridescent vase, hand-decorated by Terri L Colledge in 2015, which attracted a bid of over £200.
Among the other notable highlights was a contemporary piece by Sharon Penn—a large Southwest art pottery vase, decorated with a bear and adorned with 22kt gold inlay. The trend for vintage uranium and art glass is blooming, with pieces commanding impressive prices.
Collectible bears and figurines have also shown a strong performance, particularly with brands like Charlie Bears and Nemesis Now figurines, along with collectible knight and soldier figures. A unique entry was the Antique Bradley and Hubbard cast iron John Bull mantle clock, featuring moving eyes, which sold for an appealing £120.
As predicted, gold sovereigns and other coins performed well, with many pieces selling for more than current gold market prices. Lot 208, the Royal Mint 2012 Gold Proof Sovereign—limited edition 1139/5,500, complete with a polished wood display box and COA—performed particularly well and drew significant interest.
The auction proved to be a bustling event, and we anticipate keeping our couriers engaged with the packing and shipping of these wonderful items in the days to come. Thank you to all who participated, and we look forward to our next auction!
Watches and jewellery continue to perform strongly at auction, as evidenced by a noteworthy lot comprising three International Watch Company Schaffhausen Automatic Chronograph watches. These timepieces, all featuring leather straps and in working order, fetched an impressive £660 at the hammer.
Among the eclectic offerings, a particularly rare Vintage Fireman's Axe manufactured by Rolls Royce stood out. This piece, arrow marked and date stamped from 1942, attracted significant interest. Additionally, a large selection of antique thimbles, primarily sourced from metal detecting finds, including several in sterling silver, realized a commendable £320.
The popularity of pop and rock vinyl records remains robust, with album lots selling for prices ranging between £20 to £100. A highlight from this auction was the boxed collection of 24 Vinyl 45s featuring Beatles records, which achieved a remarkable price exceeding £100.
The furniture section also revealed some unexpected delights. There seems to be a potential strengthening trend in dark furniture prices, though only time will tell. The Victorian brass music stand was a standout, selling for considerably more than anticipated.
In the realm of toys and models, boxed vintage Subbuteo teams proved to be a hot commodity, with each lot bringing in around £400. We are also thrilled to announce an extensive selection of models, toys, and figures that will be available in our upcoming auction in March.
While we could elaborate on many other individual results, this auction has undoubtedly provided impressive returns for our vendors and enticing bargains for our buyers. We are eagerly preparing for our next live online auction, which is scheduled for Thursday 13th and Friday 14th March. We warmly invite you to join us for the viewing on Wednesday, 12th March.