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Fellows Auctioneers achieved a record-breaking milestone during their latest Designer Handbags & Accessories auction, on Tuesday 20th August. The auction house saw 1,203 bidders register for the auction across multiple bidding platforms, including their bidding software Fellows Live. This auction marks the highest level of bidder participation for a Designer Handbags & Accessories auction in the company’s history. This record also stands as the highest number of bidder registrations for any Fellows auction in the last three years. Since launching a standalone department focusing on handbags and accessories from designer brands in 2016, the auction house has seen significant growth in the level of interest for these specialist auctions and now holds at least 6 auctions a year. The strong level of bidder participation reflects a continued upward trend in the popularity of Fellows’ Designer Handbags & Accessories auctions. Comparative data highlights this growth over the last three years:

The auction house reports that the growth in bidder numbers for these auctions, particularly over the last 12 months, has been driven by a variety of reasons. One key factor is the high-quality brands offered in the auctions. Fellows has consistently presented sought-after, authentic pieces, instilling trust in their customers and reinforcing their reputation as experts in valuing and authenticating luxury goods. Fellows have shared their top-performing brands over recent years.

Top ten brands by price realised:

Top ten brands by volume of lots sold:

The auction house credits demand for these luxury brands as a key driver for not only the high bidder registration numbers but also the impressive hammer prices achieved.

Continued Growth and Future Expectations

The consistent growth in bidder registrations in this department, and across the board, suggests a thriving marketplace for luxury handbags, jewellery, watches, and accessories in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. With each auction breaking new ground, Fellows remains committed to maintaining the high standards that customers expect while continuously attracting new interest and participation.

As Fellows enters the final quarter of 2024, the auction house looks forward to setting new records in the coming months, supported by its extensive range of high-quality lots, trusted valuation process, and growing community of global bidders.

Head of Handbags, Nicola Whittaker reflected on this milestone

“The record-breaking number of bidders we saw at the auction is not just a milestone for Fellows as a company, but also a gratifying moment for the whole team who have worked so hard on these auctions. I think it shows that our dedication to curating and authenticating the most desirable luxury brands in the secondary market is truly resonating with collectors. Watching its growth since we launched our specialist department in 2016 has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to see how we continue to set new records as we enter the final quarter of 2024.”

Fellows are now accepting consignments for their flagship Jewellery, Watches, and Designer Handbag autumn auctions. Valuations can be conducted via online forms or in person at either of their offices in Birmingham (Jewellery Quarter) or London (Mayfair).

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