Guide to the Best Auction Houses in Singapore

Singapore is home to some of the most prestigious auction houses that offer a wide range of items, from fine art and antiques to collectibles and luxury goods. Whether you're an experienced collector or a first-time bidder, knowing which auction houses to visit and how to navigate them can make a big difference in your experience. Below is a guide to the best auction houses in Singapore:

1. Sotheby’s Singapore

Overview
Sotheby’s is one of the world’s leading auction houses, and its Singapore branch is an integral part of the company's presence in Asia. Sotheby’s offers a broad array of items, including fine art, jewelry, watches, and collectibles. They specialize in high-end luxury goods and have a global clientele.

Specialties

• Fine Art (Asian and Western)

• Jewelry

• Watches

• Wine and Spirits

• Modern and Contemporary Art

Why Choose Sotheby’s?

• International Reach: Sotheby’s has a global reputation, and their auctions attract buyers from all over the world.

• Quality: They specialize in high-end, prestigious items, often selling rare and valuable works of art and luxury goods.

• Expert Guidance: Sotheby’s provides expert advice to both sellers and buyers, ensuring that each auction is curated with the utmost care.

Website: Sotheby's Singapore

2. Christie’s Singapore

Overview
Christie’s is another world-renowned auction house with a significant presence in Singapore. Known for its sales of fine art, luxury goods, and collectibles, Christie’s Singapore attracts high-net-worth individuals and collectors from around the globe.

Specialties

• Fine Art (Asian and Western)

• Watches and Jewelry

• Asian Art

• Wine and Spirits

• Luxury Goods

Why Choose Christie’s?

• Prestige: Christie’s is a name that resonates with art lovers and collectors. They offer an array of highly sought-after items.

• Global Network: Like Sotheby’s, Christie’s auctions are international, which means you have access to buyers and sellers from all over the world.

• Provenance: Christie’s is renowned for its authentication process and strong focus on provenance, ensuring the authenticity of high-value items.

Website: Christie’s Singapore

3. Bonhams Singapore

Overview
Bonhams is another well-established auction house with a presence in Singapore. It is known for specializing in various categories, including fine art, antiques, jewelry, and motor cars. Bonhams is especially known for its approach to art auctions, focusing on both traditional and modern works.

Specialties

• Fine Art (Modern and Contemporary)

• Jewelry

• Antiques

• Motor Cars

• Rare Books and Manuscripts

Why Choose Bonhams?

• Specialized Categories: Bonhams is known for focusing on niche markets, such as rare books, motor cars, and specialized art categories.

• Favorable Commission Rates: Bonhams often has lower seller commission rates compared to other major auction houses.

• International Bidding: While the auction house is based in Singapore, it maintains a global network of buyers and sellers.

Website: Bonhams Singapore

4. Raffles Fine Art Auctioneers

Overview
Raffles Fine Art Auctioneers is a reputable Singapore-based auction house that specializes in fine art and antiques. It is particularly well known in the region for its expertise in Asian and Chinese art. The auction house often hosts specialized sales and offers a more personalized experience for buyers and sellers.

Specialties

• Fine Art (Asian and Chinese)

• Antiques

• Jewelry

• Sculptures

Why Choose Raffles Fine Art?

• Local Expertise: With deep knowledge of the local market and regional art, Raffles offers expert insights for those looking to buy or sell fine art in Singapore.

• Niche Auctions: The house often hosts auctions focused on Asian art, providing a unique selection of items for those with specific interests.

• Personalized Service: As a smaller auction house, Raffles is known for offering more personalized services and tailored advice for both buyers and sellers.

Website: Raffles Fine Art Auctioneers

5. Lewin & Horne Auctioneers

Overview
Lewin & Horne is an established local auction house specializing in fine art, antiques, and collectibles. While smaller than some of the global auction houses, Lewin & Horne has earned a strong reputation in the local market for its specialized sales and commitment to quality.

Specialties

• Fine Art (European and Asian)

• Antiques

• Collectibles

• Furniture

Why Choose Lewin & Horne?

• Focused Auction: Lewin & Horne often hosts themed auctions, allowing collectors to find items within specific niches.

• Local Reputation: For those based in Singapore or the region, Lewin & Horne is a trusted name with a more local and accessible approach to auctions.

• Personalized Experience: The auction house focuses on providing a more intimate experience, with direct access to the auction team for advice and assistance.

Website: Lewin & Horne Auctioneers

Tips for Attending Auctions in Singapore

• Research Before Bidding: Whether you're a buyer or a seller, it’s essential to do your research. Learn about the auction house, study the catalogue, and understand the value of the items you're interested in.

• Understand the Fees: Auction houses usually charge a buyer's premium (a percentage on top of the hammer price) and a seller's commission. Be sure to factor these into your budget.

• Register Early: Some auction houses require you to register before bidding, especially if you're participating in a high-value sale. Be sure to do this well in advance.

• Know the Terms of Sale: Each auction house has its own set of terms and conditions, including payment deadlines and policies on unsold lots. Review these before attending.

• Attend Pre-Auction Viewings: Auction houses typically offer viewings before the auction. This is a great opportunity to see the items in person, inspect their condition, and speak to experts.

Singapore’s auction houses offer a range of services for both buyers and sellers, from high-end international events at Sotheby’s and Christie’s to specialized and personalized auctions at Raffles Fine Art and Lewin & Horne. Whether you’re looking for fine art, antiques, jewelry, or luxury goods, Singapore’s auction houses provide opportunities for collectors to acquire rare and valuable items, all while ensuring a smooth, professional experience.