Buying at one of Brompton’s  auctions is simple and easy. We have put together a selection of commonly asked questions and their answers.

General Questions 

What must I do to Bid in Person?
If you plan to bid in person, please bring identification and arrive 20-30 minutes before the auction to complete bidder registration and receive your bidding paddle.  

How can I bid if I can't come to the auction in person? 
You can submit a written absentee bid, bid on-line or request to bid by telephone. Also, with your prior written authorization submitted to the Bids Office, an agent can bid on your behalf. 

How can I contact the Bids Office? 
Telephone +44 (0)20 7563 4051 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

What is the latest time that I can arrange to bid? 
Our sale room has a deadline of 24 hours before the auction to arrange telephone or absentee bids. Please contact the Bids Office for details.  

When will the auctioneer offer my lot for sale? 
It is impossible to know the exact time when a lot will be offered during the auction, but the usual speed of our auctioneers is 60-100 lots per hour.

How can I learn about the terms for buying at Brompton's Auctioneers? 
It is important that bidders read our Terms and Conditions which are present in both printed and online formats of the auction catalogues.  

What is the buyer's premium? 
The buyers premium is an additional sum of 20% added to the final sale (hammer) price. 

Will shipping charges be included in the purchase price? 
No shipping is a separate charge.  We encourage prospective buyers to request shipping estimates from their own carriers or from Brompton’s preferred shippers.  Please contact Brompton’s for a list of our trusted shippers.

What is the best way to learn about a lot that interests me? 
We would always recommend that you view in person where possible. The public pre-auction viewings are usually three days before the sale.  Brompton’s specialists are always on hand to discuss in depth any questions you might have, condition reports are also available upon request.  Private viewings can be arranged through Rebecca Titcombe at any time before the sale date.