Sotheby’s HK debuts new sale format

Sotheby’s HK is launching a ‘hybrid sale format’ that combines the discretion of private sales and the dynamism of an auction.

The auction house refers the new format as a “silent auction”, which is going to be presented in the “In Confidence: Selected Masterpieces” sale to be held from 15 to 23 May.

Under this approach, bids are placed by submitting written absentee bids. Starting from 15 May, those taking part can start submitting bids and will be notified if they have been outbid. They will have a final chance to submit a best and final offer by the pre-set deadline, 23 May, at which point the winning bidder will be determined. All bidding information and results will remain confidential. The entire bidding process will be monitored by an independent auditor.

The cross-category sale includes a range of carefully selected exquisite items, including Chinese works of art, paintings and jewellery. Spirits in the sale include The Dalmore 1973, Cask #8, which has been offered directly from the distillery. The rare 1973 vintage cask is still found maturing in the warehouses at the renowned Highland distillery. What makes the lot special is that the winning bidder will have the opportunity to complete the creation of this masterpiece by flying to Scotland and working in person with Dalmore’s master distiller, Richard Paterson. A guaranteed 150 bottles will be available to bottle in The Dalmore’s iconic Candela decanter, which can be personalised.

The e-catalogue will be uploaded to the auction site on 15 May.