Market Intelligence
Bonhams in Beaulieu, what a pity we weren’t there!
The article reports on the results of the Bonhams car auction at the Beaulieu International Autojumble, the oldest car market in the UK. The auction saw 61 cars sold for a turnover of £2,138,973 against an original estimate of £2,410,500, a success for Bonhams. The article highlights the top lots, including a 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 3.0 DHC in need of restoration, which sold for £172,500, a 1959 Aston Martin DB MkIII Sports Saloon that sold for £132,250, and a Rolls Royce 20/25hp Dreadnought Special from 1931 that sold for £155,250. The article also highlights two cars that were examples of practicality and ease of use: a Morris Minor Pick-up from 1967 that sold for £17,825 and a 1909 Daimler TB22 DHC that sold for £40,825.
Beaulieu is the best-known car museum in the United Kingdom. Opened by Lord Montagu in 1952, it’s also home to the Beaulieu International Autojumble, the oldest car market in the United Kingdom. It’s very similar to a classic “flea market” where old restorers in retirement sell their equipment, widows try to sell the cars of her late husbands and where all marketing is done with a permanent marker pen and a piece of cardboard.
Low prices and correct estimates, many “dark” cars (in need of restoration) create the perfect storm for enthusiasts looking to get their hands a little dirty between gears and books. And so, the “miracle” presented itself again: Bonhams, with 61 cars sold (82.43%) and a turnover of £2,138,973 (€2,441,020) against an original estimate £2,410,500 (€2,750,892) which represents 88.73% in value, all with just one car out of four without reserve, took home yet another great success.
