We want to make buying at auction as enjoyable and straightforward as possible and are more than happy to guide you through the auction process. This section aims to cover some of the basics, but please get in touch if you need any more information or advice.
The lots for each auction will be available online approximately two weeks before the sale. Each lot will have an image, description and guide price. More detailed condition reports can be requested.
Sales’ contents can be viewed at our Ripon saleroom or another specified location the day before the auction. Full details will be published in the Sale Calendar section of this website.
We are pleased to give condition reports and supplementary images wherever possible. These are free of charge and are an expert opinion on an item's age, condition, and authenticity.
Please register at our reception before the auction starts so you can obtain a unique number to bid. You will need a photo ID such as a passport or driver’s licence. Take your seat in the saleroom and raise your number to catch the auctioneer’s attention when bidding.
Commission bids must be submitted before the start of the sale. This can be done via the website, telephone, email, or in person. State the highest price you would like to pay for the lot, and we will purchase it for you at the lowest price possible while considering the reserve price and any other bids.
If you let us know in advance of the sale which lots you are interested in, we can call you to bid through one of our saleroom representatives. Telephone lines must be booked by close of business on the day before the sale and are offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Absentee and live bids can be submitted at: https://www.elstob.co.uk/ at no additional charge.
Our sales are also available on the following platforms:
www.thesaleroom.com – please note that this facility carries an additional 4.95% (plus VAT) surcharge;
www.invaluable.com – please note that this facility has an extra 5% (plus VAT) surcharge;
www.liveauctioneers.com – please note this facility carries an additional 5% (plus VAT) surcharge;
www.easyliveauction.com – please note this facility has an extra 3% (plus VAT) surcharge or the option of a flat fee of £3.
This is the approximate hammer price that a lot is expected to achieve.
This is the price achieved at auction. In addition, there will be a buyer’s premium charge of 25%. VAT will be added to the buyer’s premium.
Sale results will be posted on our website shortly after the auction. An invoice will be sent via email or post if your bid has been successful. You can also telephone us to check if your bid has been successful.
A buyer’s premium of 25% plus VAT (totalling 30%) on the hammer price. For example:
Hammer price - £100
Premium at 25% = £25
VAT at 20% of £5
Total price – £130.00
Payment is due immediately after the auction in pounds sterling. If it is your first purchase with us, we require your name and address. Funds will need to be cleared before purchases can be released.
Payments can be made via bank transfer, cheque, debit, and credit card. Alternatively, if you’re bidding online, you will receive an invoice by email after the sale and a link to pay online.
Please note that card payments where the cardholder is absent will only be accepted for up to £500.
Wire transfers should be sent to:
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
Shipping
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 and will be pleased to provide a quotation. 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. You can collect in person, instruct your shipper, or choose our recommended shipper listed below.
Please click here to view our full terms and conditions.