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Cambridge-based Fine Art Auctioneers, Cheffins, hosted the region’s first ever dedicated sale for jewellery, silver and watches on the 25 October 2018 with over 450 items sold.
Nearly 85% of the jewellery lots on offer were sold, with many at prices far exceeding presale estimates. The highlight was a sapphire and diamond ring from Tiffany & Co which made £4,000, doubling its pre-sale estimate of £1,500 – £2,000. The most expensive lot in the section was a three-stone diamond ring with the estimated weight of diamonds in excess of 3cts and which sold for £5,000.
Amongst the silver, nearly 95% of lots sold to either private collectors or trade buyers. The most expensive lot on the day was a 174-piece silver travelling ensemble by Garrard & Co which dated back to 1925 and which sold for £7,000.
Amongst the 38 watches on offer, a lady’s 18ct gold and steel Rolex Oyster watch achieved its top estimate, selling for £2,000; whilst a gentleman’s Rolex Oyster watch dating back to 1952 sold for £1,500. A 1945 gentleman’s Breitling Datora which needed full restoration far exceeded expectations selling for £1,400, smashing its guide price of £200 – £400.
Steve Collins, head of jewellery, silver and watches added: “Sale rates from this auction go to show the strength of the market for the best in class of jewellery, silver and watches. The auction saw a comprehensive selection of pieces at varying price points which helped to ensure that the room was packed on sale day and a number of items completely smash their pre-sale estimates.”
The sale grossed a total of over £175,000.
The sale was the first standalone auction for these jewellery, silver and watches within the firm’s already comprehensive calendar and is set to take place twice a year moving forwards. Items are already being consigned for the next jewellery, silver and watches sale will take place in April 2019.
