BUYING AT AUCTION

Bidding. Made. Simple.

Bid and buy with ease, from anywhere in the world.
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BIDDING

How to Bid

You can bid at our auctions in a number of ways, outlined below. Create your account to get started; with an Aubreys account you can leave bids, view invoices, view your sold items and statements, update your interests and more.

Create an Account

Live Online Bidding

All of our auctions are streamed live online, so you can bid in real time from any device anywhere in the world. Create an account and then click the 'Bid Live' button on the auction or lot page.
CREATE AN ACCOUNT

Absentee Bidding

You may leave absentee bids (also known as commission bids) with us indicating the maximum amount you would like to bid. We will execute absentee bids as cheaply as possible, the reserve (if any) and competing bids allowing. You can leave absentee bids in person, by telephone, by email or via our website or online bidding platforms.

Telephone Bidding

For telephone bids, we will call you during the auction, and a staff member will relay the bids to you and bid live with you over the phone. Please ensure telephone bids are submitted at least 24 hours before the auction. You can book telephone bids in person, by telephone, or by email.
VIEWING

Viewing the Sale

All of our auctions are on view at our Surrey Saleroom for several days before the auction. Check the viewing dates and times for each auction on the auction details page. Come along and meet our friendly team of specialists, enjoy a complimentary drink and browse at your leisure. We also offer remote video viewing via video call if you can't come to us.

Contact us to book a remote viewing.
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aubreys auctioneers live internet bidding
BIDDING

Live Online Bidding

Experience the thrill of live bidding on our website, where you can actively participate in auctions, bid for unique treasures, and secure exceptional finds from the comfort of your own home; and on any device.
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Bid on our website with Aubreys Live and pay no additional online bidding fees.
SHIPPING

Receiving Your Purchase

We offer an in-house UK shipping service for smaller non-breakable items such as jewellery and watches. We use Royal Mail Special Delivery at a cost of £15+VAT, all items are insured up to £2,500. For larger or breakable items, we are happy to suggest a shipper.

Spend over £500 to qualify for free in-house UK shipping.
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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your Buyers Premium?
Our Buyer's Premium is 25%+VAT (30% in total). If you bid with Aubreys Live, there are no additional bidding fees, but if you register with another online bidding platform, they may make an additional online bidding surcharge.
How do I register to participate in an auction on your website?
To register, click on 'Create an Account' above, fill in the required details, and follow the easy steps to create your account. You will then be a registered bidder, and able to leave absentee or telephone bids, and bid live.
How can I get a condition report?
We provide condition reports for most lots on the items listing. If you require further information, click on the 'Ask a Question' link on each lot to send us a request.
Can I view items before bidding?
Yes absolutely, we encourage viewing and love meeting our customers. Details about viewing times and locations can be found on the Auctions page, or by contacting our team.
How does the online bidding process work?
Once registered, simply log in to your account during the auction and place your bids in real-time as the auction progresses. If successful, your invoice will be sent by email after the auction.
What happens if I win an auction?
If you win, you will receive an invoice detailing the final bid amount, buyer's premium, any other charges such as Artist Resale Right, and payment instructions. Prompt payment is appreciated.
Is it possible to set a maximum bid in advance?
Yes, you can place a maximum bid by submitting an absentee bid in advance of the sale. Our system will automatically bid on your behalf and buy the lot as cheaply as possible, other bids and the reserve permitting.
Which payment methods do you accept?
Our preferred payment method is direct bank transfer, but we also accept debit and credit cards, and cash up to the equivalent of €10,000.
Is shipping available for items won in the auction?
Yes, we offer an in-house shipping option for smaller non-breakable items, using Royal Mail Special Delivery. Items are insured up to £2,500. Purchases over £500 qualify for free in-house shipping. For larger items, we can recommend a shipper. Please contact us for further information.
Can I participate in auctions if I'm located outside the UK?
Absolutely, we welcome international bidders. Please ensure compliance with any customs regulations and contact us for shipping arrangements.
How can I track the status of my winning bids?
You can monitor your successful bids and auction results through your secure online account on our website. Invoices for successful purchases will be sent by email after the auction.
What is Artist Resale Rights?
The Artist’s Resale Right (ARR) entitles creators of original works of art including paintings, engravings, sculpture and ceramics to a royalty each time one of their works is resold (for over £1000) through an auction house or art market professional. See our Information for Buyers for further details.
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