From rare watches to fine art and vintage tech, auctions remain one of the most exciting ways to buy and sell unique items. In 2024, the UK reclaimed its position as the second-largest art and auction market globally, driven by renewed interest in accessible, mid-range sales and growing demand for online bidding.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just exploring, Chiswick Auctions offers an approachable entry point into this vibrant world.
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Key takeaways
- Chiswick Auctions offers expert-led sales of art, antiques, watches, silver and more.
- You can bid online, in person, or via phone with a simple registration process.
- Sellers can access free valuations and specialist marketing for high-value lots.
- Fees include a buyer’s premium and seller’s commission, so budget accordingly.
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What is Chiswick Auctions?
Chiswick Auctions is a leading West London auction house, renowned for its broad range of sales from jewellery and watches to silver, art, and antiques. Located in Chiswick, it hosts regular public auctions both online and in person, attracting collectors, sellers, and curious first-timers from across London and beyond.
Chiswick Auctions is a leading West London auction house, renowned for its broad range of sales from jewellery and watches to silver, art, and antiques. It hosts over 170 sales each year across more than 15 specialist departments, including regular general and Tuesday sales covering categories from fine art and furniture to designer fashion.
Located in Chiswick, the auction house runs regular public auctions both online and in person, attracting collectors, sellers, and curious first-timers from across London and beyond.
Each sale is backed by specialist knowledge. The company has over 20 departments, each managed by experts, offering sellers accurate valuations and buyers informed catalogues. With a reputation for integrity and customer-friendly service, it has earned strong reviews and repeat clients over the years
Buying at Chiswick Auctions
How to register
Whether you’re bidding online or attending in person, registering is simple.
- Online: You’ll need to create an account on Chiswick Live. Be sure to complete ID verification and register at least 24 hours before your intended auction.
- In-person: Head to the front desk at the Chiswick auction house with your photo ID (passport or driving licence).
- Absentee or phone bids: You can also submit absentee bids or book a phone bid slot. Just contact the team at least 12 hours in advance.
Once registered, you’ll receive access to upcoming lots, sale dates, and bidding tools tailored to your chosen format.
Auction types
Chiswick Auctions offers two main types of sales:
Live auctions feature a traditional auctioneer and real-time bids. You can attend the saleroom or join via Chiswick Live for online bidding.
Timed online auctions run without an auctioneer. Lots close at set intervals, and if a bid is placed just before the deadline, the timer resets by one minute; this prevents last-second sniping and gives every bidder a fair shot.
Both formats offer transparency, digital convenience, and an opportunity to browse lots at your leisure and get information.
Bidding advice
Bidding may feel overwhelming at first, but with a bit of preparation, it quickly becomes intuitive.
Start by factoring in the buyer’s premium, which is 26 percent on the first £500,000 of the hammer price and 12 percent on any amount above that. VAT is applied to the premium only. Some imported lots are also subject to 5 percent VAT on the hammer price, clearly marked in the catalogue.
Next, take time to preview the lots. Online images are helpful, but attending viewing days gives you a better sense of an item’s condition, particularly for high-value pieces like silver or watches.
It is also important to understand bidding increments. For example, a lot listed at £100 may increase in £10 steps. Increments vary by price band and are shown in the catalogue, so be sure to check them in advance.
If you are bidding in a timed online auction, stay alert. Lots close in a staggered sequence. If someone places a bid just before the closing time, the timer will reset by one minute. You will receive real-time notifications if you are outbid, giving you a chance to respond before the lot closes.
How do I sell at Chiswick Auctions?
Valuations
If you’re considering selling, the first step is getting a valuation. Chiswick offers several easy options:
- Online: Submit photos and details through their email or website. Expect a response within a few days for general items, though specialist departments (e.g. rare books or Asian art) may take up to two weeks.
- Walk-in centre: Visit the Roslin Square Valuation Centre between Tuesday and Thursday, from 10:00 - 16:00. No appointment is needed.
Experts will then research and deliver a free, accurate valuation estimate.
Preparing for Sale
Once you accept the valuation, your item will be catalogued by the appropriate department. Chiswick Auctions professionally photographs and markets all accepted pieces to reach buyers across the UK and internationally.
From rare coins to designer handbags, each category is handled with specialist care to maximise visibility and achieve strong sale results.
Seller Commission
Chiswick Auctions does not publish a fixed seller commission. The rate varies depending on the department, item category, and final sale value.
Sellers pay a standard commission of 15 percent plus VAT, along with a lot entry fee of £15 plus VAT per item. These charges are confirmed in writing before your item is listed and are outlined in the seller agreement. For the most accurate information, sellers are encouraged to request a full quote during the valuation process.
A detailed seller agreement will outline all applicable fees and terms before the auction date is confirmed.
After the auction
On the sale day, you’ll be notified of the final hammer price shortly after the auction ends. Payment is processed within 35 calendar days of the auction, once buyer payment has cleared, in line with your seller agreement.”
The auction house handles all post-sale communication with the buyer, giving you peace of mind and a seamless transaction.
Market trends and notable recent sales
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The UK auction market is experiencing strong demand for mid-century furniture, vintage tech, and pop culture memorabilia, with items like G-Plan pieces, early Apple computers, and music collectables achieving notable prices.
Jewellery and rare watches, especially those with notable provenance or exceptional craftsmanship, remain highly sought after. A standout example is a 10.51‑carat Burmese ruby and diamond ring that sold at Chiswick Auctions for £462,500 in September 2024, setting a new house record and far exceeding its estimate. Silver, vintage designer items, and specialist collections also continue to see strong interest across categories.
Sustainability and authenticity are increasingly important to collectors, and regional auction activity is particularly robust in the North West and South-East.
Chiswick Auctions has seen successful sales across categories such as Chinese art, 20th-century design, and private silver collections, reflecting broader trends and strong buyer enthusiasm for both classic and contemporary collectables.
Conclusion
For seasoned bidders or sellers testing the waters, Chiswick Auctions is a reliable space to discover, list, or purchase unique finds. Their combination of expert service, accessible entry points, and trustworthy processes makes them one of the most recommended auction companies in London today.
Need storage after the sale?
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Frequently asked questions
What can I buy or sell?
Chiswick Auctions deals in a wide range of categories: art, jewellery, books, silver, luxury watches, designer fashion, and more. Check their calendar for themed sales if you’re looking for something specific.
I'm new to auctions. Is Chiswick Auctions beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be a seasoned collector. Whether you’re selling inherited items or browsing your first auction, staff are happy to help.
How secure is the selling process?
Every lot is tracked, photographed, and logged. Chiswick has strong security protocols in place, ensuring your items are well cared for from intake to auction day.
What services does HOLD Self Storage offer?
HOLD provides safe, flexible storage for personal and business needs. Services include 24-hour access units and climate-secure furniture storage for auction sellers or those relocating.
Can HOLD help while moving homes?
Yes! From temporary storage to planning support, HOLD simplifies moving. Explore our moving house checklist or browse our personal storage options.
