How to buy at auction
Before the auction
Discovery and remote viewing
At Marylebone Auctions, we provide multiple ways to view our auction catalogues, ensuring you have easy access to information about our upcoming lots: Online Interactive Listings: All our auction catalogues are available as interactive listings on our "Upcoming Auctions" page. These are uploaded well in advance of each auction, allowing you ample time to browse and research. Each lot is accompanied by high-quality images that can be enlarged for a more detailed view, helping you make informed decisions about potential purchases. Printed Catalogues: For our major seasonal auctions, we produce beautifully designed, perfect-bound printed catalogues. These are created in-house by our expert team to showcase each lot in stunning detail. You can purchase these catalogues prior to the sale for £15, which includes postage to your address. They serve as excellent references and collectibles in their own right. E-Catalogues: We also offer digital versions of our printed catalogues as user-friendly 'page-turner' e-catalogues. These can be accessed directly from our "Upcoming Auctions" page on our website. This format combines the visual appeal of our printed catalogues with the convenience of digital access, allowing you to browse from any device with internet access. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of a printed catalogue, the convenience of online listings, or the best of both worlds with our e-catalogues, Marylebone Auctions ensures you have all the information you need at your fingertips. Visit our website or contact our team to explore our catalogue options and start discovering the exciting lots in our upcoming auctions.
In person viewing
At Marylebone auctions, we hold majority of our live auctions on Thursdays. We understand the importance of examining items before bidding, so we offer viewing opportunities prior to each sale day. For our Timed Auctions, viewing is available before the auction's closing date. Viewing Schedule: You can find specific viewing dates and times for each auction on the respective auction details page on our website. We strive to provide flexible viewing options to accommodate various schedules. Appointments: To ensure you receive personalised attention and have the best viewing experience, we recommend making an appointment. Please contact our team to schedule your visit. This allows us to prepare for your arrival and have our specialists on hand to answer any questions you may have about the lots. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to closely examine items of interest, helping you make informed decisions about your potential purchases. Our knowledgeable staff will be available to provide additional information and assist you with any inquiries. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the auction world, we welcome you to experience the quality and diversity of items offered at Marylebone Auctions. Contact us today to arrange your viewing appointment and take the first step towards acquiring your next treasure.
Condition reports
At Marylebone auctions, we understand that not all bidders can view lots in person. That's why we offer the option to request further details and extra images for any lot in our sales. This service is particularly valuable if you're unable to attend a viewing session. Condition Reports: While our catalogue descriptions provide essential information, they don't include detailed condition assessments. If you are unable to view and are in any doubt about the condition of an item, we recommend requesting a condition report and additional images for a more comprehensive understanding of the lot's state. Our reports offer a general guide to the condition but are not exhaustive examinations. Whenever possible, we encourage a physical inspection by you or your appointed agent for the most accurate assessment. Requesting Information: To request a condition report, simply go to the lot of interest on our website and click the "Request a Condition Report" button. Alternatively, you can email us at contact@mauctions.co.uk. Please note that all condition reports are provided in writing for your reference. Timing: To ensure we can fulfill your request, please submit condition report inquiries before 4:30 PM the day prior to the auction. This allows our team sufficient time to thoroughly examine the lot and prepare a detailed report for you. Our Commitment: At Marylebone Auctions, we're committed to providing you with as much information as possible to help you make informed bidding decisions. Our team of specialists is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about our lots. Remember, while our condition reports and additional images are helpful, they are not substitutes for personal inspection. We encourage you to view items in person whenever possible or to appoint a trusted agent to do so on your behalf.
Buyer Premium
As with all UK auction houses, Marylebone Auctions charges a buyer's premium in addition to the hammer price. This premium is a standard practice in the auction industry and contributes to the costs associated with running our auctions and providing our services. Our Buyer's Premium structure is as follows: For the first £500,000 of the hammer price: 22% VAT inclusive. For any portion of the hammer price above £500,000: 15% VAT inclusive. This premium is calculated on a per-lot basis. For example: If you successfully bid £1,000 on a lot, the buyer's premium would be £220 inc. VAT. For a lot with a hammer price of £750,000, the premium would be £110,000 (22% of £500,000) plus £37,500 (15% of £250,000), totaling £147,500 including VAT. Please note that these charges are currently VAT inclusive. No VAT will currently be added to the premium. At Marylebone Auctions, we strive to maintain transparency in our fee structure. If you have any questions about our buyer's premium or how it applies to your potential purchases, please don't hesitate to contact our team. We want to ensure you have a clear understanding of all aspects of our auction process.
Auction registration
At Marylebone auctions, we offer several ways to participate in our auctions: - In-room bidding with a paddle number (when available) - Leaving a commission or 'absentee' bid - Telephone bidding - we'll call you during the auction to bid on your behalf - Live online bidding Registration and Identification To comply with Anti-Money Laundering Regulations, all potential buyers must register and provide two forms of identification before bidding in any of our auctions. Required documents: Government-issued photo ID (driving licence or passport) Proof of address (bank statement or utility bill dated within the last 3 months) Please email copies of these documents to contact@mauctions.co.uk when arranging your bid. We'll securely upload these to your client profile. Important Notes: Allow ample time for registration, ideally before 4:30 PM the day before the auction. Bids submitted after this time cannot be guaranteed and may not be processed. In-room bidding may be unavailable for some auctions. Please check our website or contact us for the latest information on in-person attendance. Online and Remote Bidding We encourage clients to use our online bidding platform or telephone bidding service. These methods allow you to participate fully in our auctions from the comfort and safety of your home. To arrange online or telephone bidding, please contact our team well in advance of the auction. We'll guide you through the process and ensure you're set up to bid successfully. At Marylebone Auctions, we're committed to making the bidding process as smooth and accessible as possible. If you have any questions about registration, identification requirements, or bidding methods, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Bidding options
Please note that some bidding options may not be available for every auction. Check the specific auction details to confirm available bidding methods before registering your bid. We strongly recommend reading our full Terms and Conditions applicable to buyers prior to registration and bidding. In-Room Bidding: When available, visit our registration desk on the day of the auction to register and obtain your bidding number. Telephone Bidding: Arrange to be contacted by telephone during the auction to place your bids. Book telephone lines by 4:30 PM the day before the auction. Contact our team at [Marylebone Auctions phone number] or email contact@mauctions.co.uk. Provide two forms of identification: photo ID (driving licence or passport) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months). Commission (Absentee) Bidding: Leave a maximum bid (excluding Buyer's Premium). We'll bid on your behalf, starting at the lowest possible amount and increasing up to your maximum as necessary. Submit bids by 4:30 PM the day before the auction. Place bids through one of these methods: Create a Marylebone Auctions client account and leave bids via our online catalogue. Phone our bidding office or email your bids to contact@mauctions.co.uk. Provide two forms of identification as detailed above. Live Online Bidding: Register to bid live through our online platform, MaryleboneLive. Create a client account on our website. Refer to our 'How to Bid Live' guide for instructions. On auction day, sign in from 1 hour prior to auction starting, navigate to the auction catalogue, and click the 'Bid Live' button. Follow the sale in real-time with streamed video and audio while placing your bids. If you register directly with MaryleboneLive you avoid paying any additional Live Bidding fees that some platforms charge, which can be up to 5% +VAT in addition to the Buyer Premium. For any bidding arrangements or further advice, please call [Marylebone Auctions phone number] or email contact@mauctions.co.uk. At Marylebone Auctions, we're committed to making your bidding experience smooth and enjoyable. Our team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns about the bidding process.
At the auction
Bidding etiquette
Clear Bidding: Our experienced auctioneers are attentive to the entire room and their rostrum screen. They're skilled at spotting bids, but clarity is key. If there's any uncertainty about your bid, the auctioneer will confirm with you. If you didn't intend to bid or were simply making a gesture, don't hesitate to speak up immediately. Swift Bidding: Marylebone Auctions' sales often feature hundreds of lots. We appreciate swift bidding, particularly from online participants. This approach not only shows respect for the auctioneer and our team but also ensures you don't miss out on desired lots due to delayed responses. Online Bidding: When participating online, be prepared to act quickly. Our auctioneers maintain a brisk pace to keep the auction moving efficiently. Hesitation could result in missing out on a lot you're interested in. In-Room Bidding: If you're bidding in person, make your intentions clear with confident, visible gestures. Our auctioneers are vigilant, but in a busy saleroom, subtle movements might be overlooked. Telephone Bidding: For those bidding via phone, listen carefully to our staff and respond promptly. Clear communication helps us represent your interests accurately. Absentee Bids: If you've left an absentee bid and have received a bid confirmation, rest assured our team will execute it faithfully at the appropriate time. Remember, the auctioneer's decision is final in all bidding matters. They're there to ensure a fair and efficient process for all participants. At Marylebone Auctions, we strive to create an engaging and equitable bidding environment. By following these guidelines, you'll contribute to a smooth auction process and enhance your chances of securing the lots you desire. If you have any questions about bidding procedures, don't hesitate to ask our team before the auction begins.
After the auction
Payments
Payment Methods at Marylebone Auctions For UK-based Buyers: Online Payment: Log in or create an account on the Marylebone Auctions website. Go to 'My Account', click on 'Invoices and Payments' to find your outstanding invoice. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your payment. Direct Bank Transfer: Bank: [Marylebone Auctions' Bank Name] Account Name: Marylebone Auctions Ltd Sort Code: [Marylebone Auctions' Sort Code] Account Number: [Marylebone Auctions' Account Number] Note: If our bank is not currently part of the Confirmation of Payee service, you may receive a warning that the bank details cannot be verified. This should not prevent you from proceeding with the payment. For reassurance, please contact us to confirm the bank details. Debit Cards: We accept debit card payments up to £1,000. Please call us on [Marylebone Auctions' phone number] to pay over the phone. Please note: We do not accept payment by credit card. For Non UK-based Buyers: Please inform Marylebone Auctions of the country and bank from which payment will be made if you wish to pay by bank transfer. Our bank fees may vary depending on the amount and country of origin. Once we have this information, we can confirm the fees involved before you make your payment. International Bank Transfer Details: Bank: [Marylebone Auctions' Bank Name] Bank Address: [Bank Address] IBAN: [Marylebone Auctions' IBAN] BIC/SWIFT: [Marylebone Auctions' BIC/SWIFT] Beneficiary: Marylebone Auctions Ltd Beneficiary Address: [Marylebone Auctions' Address] Important Notes for International Buyers: We require your SWIFT number for international transfers. Please check with your bank regarding any fees for international transfers, as these can vary. Buyers from 'restricted countries' must provide ID and permit due diligence checks BEFORE making payment if paying by bank transfer. If payment is made before these checks are completed, you may incur cancellation fees, as our bank will not accept payments without the necessary due diligence. For any questions or concerns about payment methods, please contact our finance team at [Marylebone Auctions' finance email] or call [Marylebone Auctions' phone number]. We're here to assist you in completing your transaction smoothly and securely.
Collection
Our saleroom team is always available to assist you, whether you're collecting in person or need advice about local carriers. Collection or shipping arrangements can be made from midday on the next working day after the auction. Once you've successfully bid and paid for your items, you're welcome to collect them Monday through Friday, 10am - 5pm. Rules for Collecting from Marylebone Auctions: 1. Ensure your invoice is paid in full prior to collection. 2. Collections are available Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm. 3. Upon arrival, please check in at the main reception. 4. Please bring an appropriate vehicle and any necessary lifting equipment for your items. Important Considerations: - All lots must be paid for and removed at the buyer's risk and expense 7 days after the sale. - After this time, Marylebone Auctions is not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed items. - Uncollected lots will be subject to a 'warehousing' charge of £5/lot per day. - If lots are not paid for and removed within 7 days of the sale, Marylebone Auctions may re-sell them by auction or privately without notice to the buyer. Storage Charges: Please note that a storage and handling charge of £5.00 + VAT per lot, per day, will be applied if items remain uncollected after seven days from the sale date. Re-sale Policy: Marylebone Auctions reserves the right to re-sell any paid items that remain uncollected after fourteen days. The original buyer will be charged for storage, full commission, and insurance, with the net proceeds remitted to them. We strive to make the collection process as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with collection or shipping arrangements, please don't hesitate to contact our team at [Marylebone Auctions' phone number] or [Marylebone Auctions' email]. We're here to help ensure you receive your purchased items safely and efficiently.
Shipping
While Marylebone Auctions doesn't offer comprehensive packaging services, we can suggest local carriers for packing and shipping. Buyers using third-party services do so at their own risk and responsibility. For small, unbreakable items (for example, jewellery) with a total value below £2500 (including buyer's premium) weighing less than 2kg, we offer a limited in-house UK postage service in partnership with DHL. Contact us if you would like to request this service, which we will carry out on your behalf. Charges for this service: Total invoice under £300: £20.00 +VAT Total invoice £300-£1,000: £25.00 +VAT Total invoice £1,000-£2,500: £50.00 +VAT Total invoice £2,500-£10,000: £150.00 +VAT Contact us in advance about shipping internationally as rates vary depending on country and items/weight. Local Couriers: We can provide a list of local couriers upon request. Please contact them directly for quotes. You're welcome to use alternative couriers as well. Storage Charges: A storage and handling charge of £5.00 + VAT per lot, per day, will be applied if items remain uncollected after four working days from the sale date. Re-sale Policy: Marylebone Auctions reserves the right to re-sell any paid items that remain uncollected after 14 days. The original buyer will be charged for storage, full commission, and insurance, with the net proceeds remitted to them. For further assistance with payment, collection, or shipping, please contact us at [Marylebone Auctions' phone number] or [Marylebone Auctions' email]. We're here to ensure a smooth process for receiving your purchased items.
