Sydney is a bustling hub for art enthusiasts, collectors, and investors, offering a vibrant market through its premier auction houses. Whether you’re looking to acquire a rare piece of fine art, antique furniture, or even vintage jewelry, the city has a range of options to suit every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the 3 best auction houses in Sydney that cater to both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. From exploring unique collections to understanding bidding dynamics, these establishments are perfect for diving into the world of auctions.
3
Number of companies
266
Verified reviews
4,27
Average rating
1. First State Auctions
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4,6/5
level 12 suite 1/155 Castlereagh St, 2000, Sydney
- Auction house
Why we chose them
First State Auctions stands out as Australia’s premier jewellery auction house, specializing in fine jewellery, Swiss watches, gemstones, and designer bags. Established in 1995, this trusted auctioneer has earned a reputation for authenticity and excellence, offering weekly online auctions that cater to customers across Australia, New Zealand, and globally. Their catalogues are meticulously curated, with every item undergoing rigorous checks by in-house gemmologists and diamond graders to guarantee quality and authenticity. Notably, the company has been selected by various Commonwealth of Australia government agencies to auction seized, recovered, and unclaimed jewellery, further solidifying its reputation in the industry. Buyers can enjoy peace of mind with a 100% guarantee on catalogue descriptions, complemented by worldwide free shipping and insured deliveries.
With a flawless commitment to service, First State Auctions provides an unparalleled auction experience, making it easy for bidders to access, register, and participate in the thrill of live bidding. Their diverse offerings include designer brands like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Rolex, alongside unique pieces like engagement rings, diamond bracelets, and natural gemstones. The platform’s user-friendly interface and detailed FAQs ensure a seamless process for both buyers and sellers. Whether seeking a rare collector’s item or selling fine jewellery, customers benefit from expert advice and transparency at every step. Known for exceptional customer service and competitive pricing, this auction house continues to deliver high-quality goods that meet and exceed expectations.
2. AuctionsPlus
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3,9/5
Suite 4, Level 5/1 Elizabeth Plaza, 2060, North Sydney
- Livestock auction house
- Auction house
Why we chose them
AuctionsPlus is Australia’s largest agricultural marketplace, offering a comprehensive online platform for buying and selling livestock, machinery, feed, and more. Specializing as a trusted livestock auction house, the company brings buyers and sellers together through innovative digital solutions, ensuring seamless and efficient transactions. With hundreds of auctions held regularly, it caters to a wide array of needs, including cattle, sheep, goats, and farm machinery. By leveraging technology, AuctionsPlus provides a value-added experience that makes trading straightforward and accessible for Australia’s agricultural community.
In addition to its robust auction services, the platform hosts specialty sales such as charity auctions and multi-vendor machinery events, reflecting its versatility and reach across diverse markets. Offering features like price discovery, market insights, and livestock finance options, AuctionsPlus empowers its users with tools to make informed decisions. Its commitment to quality and innovation has positioned it as a leader in the agricultural trading space, making it an indispensable resource for farmers, producers, and industry stakeholders alike.
3. Bloodstockauction
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4,3/5
Suite 2 Level 10/1 Pacific Hwy, 2060, North Sydney
- Auction house
Why we chose them
Bloodstockauction is a premier provider of online thoroughbred auctions, recognized as the largest and most successful platform of its kind in Australia. This innovative auction house offers a seamless virtual experience, replicating the structure of traditional auctions with set sale dates, detailed listings, and weekly catalogues for buyers to explore. By operating in a fully digital format, the company provides a convenient and efficient solution for horse enthusiasts, breeders, and buyers to bid on high-quality thoroughbreds from the comfort of their own homes.
With a comprehensive range of services, Bloodstockauction empowers users to view catalogues, enter horses into upcoming auctions, and engage in syndications to buy and sell horse shares. Additionally, the platform offers resources for racing, breeding, stallion directories, and connections to trusted agents, vets, insurance providers, and transport options. Proudly Australian-owned and operated, the company combines expertise and passion to deliver an unmatched experience in the world of thoroughbred auctions.
Frequently asked questions
What types of items can I find at auction houses in Sydney?
Auction houses in Sydney offer a wide range of items, including fine art, antique furniture, vintage jewelry, estate collections, rare collectibles, and even historical artifacts. Some specialize in specific categories, so it’s worth researching beforehand.
What is the average price range for items at Sydney auction houses?
Prices can vary greatly depending on the item and its rarity. Fine art pieces may range from €500 to several million euros, while antique furniture and collectibles can be priced between €200 and €20,000. Vintage jewelry might start around €300 and go up to tens of thousands of euros.
How long does the auction process typically take from start to finish?
The auction process can vary but typically includes a preview period lasting 1-2 weeks, followed by the auction event itself, which may take a few hours. Afterward, winning bidders usually have 1-5 business days to finalize payments and arrange for item collection or delivery.
How do I choose a reputable auction house in Sydney?
Look for auction houses with a strong reputation, positive reviews, and transparent bidding processes. Check if they provide detailed item descriptions and provenance information, as well as clear buyer premium policies. Attending previews can also help gauge their professionalism.
What are buyer premiums, and how do they affect my final cost?
Buyer premiums are additional fees charged by auction houses on top of the winning bid amount, typically ranging from 10% to 25%. For example, if you win an item for €1,000 and the buyer premium is 20%, your total cost will be €1,200.
Can I inspect items before bidding at a Sydney auction house?
Yes, most auction houses in Sydney offer preview sessions where you can inspect items in person or online. These sessions allow you to evaluate the condition, authenticity, and details of the items before placing your bids.
Are there auctions specifically for first-time buyers in Sydney?
Many auction houses welcome first-time buyers and offer guidance on the bidding process. Some even host smaller-scale auctions or themed events designed to be more accessible for newcomers to the auction world.
What happens if I win an item but cannot pay immediately?
Auction houses typically require payment within 1-5 business days after the auction. If payment is not made within the specified timeframe, you may face penalties, cancellation of the sale, or loss of your deposit. Always confirm payment terms before bidding.
