Hammer falling again on antiques

While Allbids.com.au has always operated online and was able to still do business during lockdown, the easing restrictions have created a buzz, as buyers are allowed back in the showroom. Angus Bowers, head of art, antiques and collectables, said the Fyshwick auction house was celebrating the easing restrictions with a fine antiques and decorative arts sale which is taking bids until October 27. It comprises 119 lots from a variety of estates and the result of people downsizing. “Now the easing of restrictions allows us to have inspections back in our showroom, we thought now would be a good time to run a boutique auction,” Mr Bowers said. “We’re allowed to have people browsing again, which is certainly a good development.” One item attracting interest is an International Watch Company men’s watch that once belonged to a Canberra architect. It had already attracted bids over $1000. With a favourite lockdown activity clearing out the cupboards for many Canberrans, Mr Bowers was expecting a lot more inventory in the coming months. “People can bring in their items for auction but still the best practice is to give us a call and that way we can run them through the process,” he said. The auction items are at www.allbids.com.au/t/decorative-arts