How to Bid at a V&P Auction: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Buyers

Never bid at auction before? You're not alone. A lot of people assume auction is complicated, intimidating, or only for dealers and collectors who know what they're doing.

It isn't. Our auctions are open to everyone — and once you've done it once, you'll wonder why you didn't start sooner. This guide walks you through the whole process, from finding a lot you like to taking it home.

"You can bid from your sofa or in the room at Epsom Club — the choice is yours."

What comes up at V&P auctions?

Every auction is different, but our regular categories include:

• Luxury and vintage watches — Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Patek Philippe and more
• Fine jewellery — diamond rings, gold necklaces, earrings, brooches
• Antique and vintage silver — candlesticks, tea services, flatware, trinket boxes
• Designer handbags — Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton
• Art, antiques and collectables
• Classic and vintage cars

A selection from our recent auction — watches, fine items and antique silver. Every auction is different.

Upcoming auctions are listed at vpauctioneers.co.uk. You can browse the full catalogue before the sale — every lot has photos, a description, and a guide price so you know what to expect before you bid.

How we protect buyers

Before you bid, it's worth knowing that every lot at V&P goes through a due diligence process:

• All watches are checked against the Watch Register before sale [cite: 174]
• All jewellery and silver lots are verified against the Art Loss Register before sale [cite: 175]

This means you can bid with confidence. Every item has been checked to confirm it is not reported stolen or subject to any claim.

Step by step — how to bid

Step 1. Browse the catalogue

Head to our website and click on Upcoming Sales. You'll find the full catalogue for each auction, with photos, descriptions, guide prices and lot numbers. Take your time — there's no rush at this stage. If you see something you like, make a note of the lot number.

Step 2. Create a free account

To bid, you'll need to register on our website[cite: 170]. It's free and takes two minutes. Click 'Create Account' in the top right corner of any page. You'll need a valid email address and to confirm your identity. This is standard practice at all auction houses.

Every watch lot is checked against the Watch Register before sale — bid with confidence. [cite: 197]

Step 3. Decide how you want to bid

You have two options — bid online from anywhere, or come to the room at Epsom Club and bid in person[cite: 170]. Both are equally valid and both see exactly the same lots. Online bidders and room bidders are competing in real time against each other.

Bidding in the room: Our live auctions are held at Epsom Club, 41-43 Church Street, Epsom, KT17 4PW. Arrive a little early, register with our team on the door, and you'll receive a bidder number.

Bidding online: Log into your account and find the live auction. You'll see the lots in real time as the auctioneer works through them. Click the bid button to place your bid. You can also leave a 'maximum bid' in advance.

Step 4. Set your budget — and stick to it

Before you bid on anything, decide your maximum price. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement — decide your limit before the lot comes up, not during it.

Step 5. You've won — what happens next?

If you're the highest bidder when the hammer falls, the lot is yours. You'll receive a confirmation by email[cite: 172]. Payment is due within 48 hours of the auction closing. We accept bank transfer and major debit and credit cards[cite: 172].

Step 6. Collect your item or arrange shipping

You're welcome to collect your purchase from our Epsom store at 3 High Street, Epsom, KT19 8DA[cite: 173]. If you're not local, we can arrange postage and shipping — contact us and we'll sort it out[cite: 173].

What is a buyer's premium?

When you win a lot, the final amount you pay is the hammer price plus a buyer's premium[cite: 171]. This is a percentage added on top of the winning bid — it's how auction houses charge for their service.

Tips for new buyers

• Read the lot description carefully — condition, dimensions, any known faults [cite: 193]
• Look at all the photos — zoom in on hallmarks, dials, and clasps
• Factor in the buyer's premium before you decide your maximum bid [cite: 171]
• Don't be embarrassed to ask questions — call us on 01372 738 054

Common questions

Do I need to attend in person to bid?
No. Online bidding is fully live and real time.

Can I view items before the auction?
Yes. We offer viewing days before each sale. Dates are listed with each auction catalogue on our website.

What if I change my mind after winning?
A bid is a legally binding contract to purchase. Please only bid if you intend to buy.