At Elstob Auctioneers, we aim to make buying at auction as straightforward and enjoyable as possible. Whether you are a seasoned collector or bidding for the first time, our team is on hand to guide you through the process. From fine art and antiques auctions to specialist sales, we provide clear information, expert advice and flexible bidding options to suit your needs.
The catalogue of lots for each auction will be available online approximately two weeks before the sale. Each lot will include an image, description and guide price, with more detailed condition reports available on request.
Auction content can be viewed in person at our Ripon saleroom or another specified location the day before the auction. Full details will be published in the Sale Calendar section of our website.
We are pleased to provide free condition reports and supplementary images, wherever possible. These offer our expert opinion on an item’s age, condition and authenticity.
Please register at reception before the auction starts to obtain a unique bidding number. A valid photo ID such as a passport or driver’s licence is required. Once seated, simply raise your number to catch the auctioneer’s attention when bidding.
Commission bids must be submitted before the start of the sale. These can be placed via our website, by telephone, email, or in person. Please state the maximum price you are prepared to pay, and we will bid on your behalf at the lowest possible price while taking into account the reserve and competing bids.
If you inform us in advance of the lots you are interested in, we can arrange for one of our saleroom representatives to call you during the sale so you can bid by telephone. Telephone lines must be booked by close of business the day before the auction and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can place absentee or live bids directly at www.elstob.co.uk with no additional charges.
Our sales are also available via the following online bidding platforms (please note surcharges apply):
This is the approximate hammer price that a lot is expected to achieve.
This is the price achieved at auction. A buyer’s premium of 25% is added, plus VAT.
Results are posted on our website shortly after each auction. If your bid is successful, an invoice will be sent by email or post. You can also telephone us to check the results.
A buyer’s premium of 25% plus VAT (30% total) is payable on the hammer price.
Example:
Payment is due immediately after the auction in pounds sterling. For first-time buyers, we require your name and address. Purchases will only be released once funds have cleared.
Payments can be made via bank transfer, cheque, debit or credit card. Online bidders will receive an invoice by email with a payment link.
Please note: card payments where the cardholder is not present are limited to £500.
Bank details for transfers:
HSBC UK Bank plc, 1 Prospect Place, Darlington, DL3 7LQ
Account name: Elstob & Elstob Limited Clients Account
Sort code: 40-19-03
Account number: 63664872
IBAN: GB04HBUK40190363664872
BIC/SWIFT: HBUKGB4104A
Where possible, we will do our best to pack and dispatch items in-house for a reasonable charge. Please note that our in-house shipping service is only available for delivery to UK addresses. Due to the risk of damage in transit, we may be unable to accommodate larger or more fragile items, and in such cases, we recommend using a professional packing and shipping service. All packing and shipping is undertaken entirely at the buyer’s risk, and we accept no responsibility for any loss or damage that may occur in transit.
Our recommended shipper is listed below. All shipping charges are payable directly to the shipping company.
Bradleys Antique Packing Services
T: +44 (0)1325 281332
E: info@antiquepacking.co.uk
Lots will only be released once payment has been received in full. We require your written authorisation before releasing any goods if you appoint a third-party shipper.
If you choose to use an alternative carrier or arrange your own transport, please ensure they are aware they will also be responsible for packing, as we may be unable to do this on your behalf.
Collections from our Ripon saleroom are available Tuesday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Collections are not possible at weekends. Items can be collected in person, by your chosen shipper, or by our recommended shipper listed above.
Please click here to view our full terms and conditions.