How Long Does An Auction Take?

[chrissa1]

I’m selling a couple of painting at auction tomorrow. They are Lots 485 and 487.

The auction starts at 09.30 and I’m thinking about driving down to see them sold. As I live 30 miles away, what time do you think they will come up? I don’t want to get there at the start and the drive will take roughly, 40 minutes. Thanks.

[Barmaid]

Depends what lots numbers the auctioneers start with. Sometimes they dont start at 1 and there could be spare lots between the first lot and yours.

You could, get an account at the Saleroom.com (if your auctioneers are a member and most are) and watch it live. You can set an alarm for any lot (I normally set an alarm for a lot 2 before the one I am looking at). Be warned though, when the alarm goes off and you have forgotten all about it, you WILL jump!

[Mamyalynne]

I'd give the Auction house a call and see if they have a running order, they may not run in strict numerical order but in types of lots.

[Flonska]

The auction house should be able to provide a prospectus that will list the lots - usually in sale order. How long it takes to get to your items will be determined by the extent of how long it takes to sell the previous pieces. Why not give the auctioneers a call, since, from their experience, they should be able to provide a guesstimate of the timing.

[chrissa1]

Thanks, all.

[Flonska]

If you do attend the auction, don't get carried away during the sale of your pieces. You might make a "gesture" (e.g. nod, fidget, scratch your nose, pull your ear) which might end up being considered a "bid" and end with you buying the item(s) back!!

[EDDIE51]

Auction houses always have excellent and cheap/subsidised cafes with good food available. (some have Bars as well) So getting there at the start and having a coffee and a meal while waiting for your item to come up is a viable option.

[chrissa1]

I have just given them a ring and the lady reckoned they would sell 100 lots/hour. Just after lunch suits me fine. Thanks all.