Small brands to watch? Renowned auctioneer discusses the auction industry in 2022

"Latest News from the Global Watch Market" brings you information on watch auctions held around the world.
Tim Bourne, International Director of Watches at the long-established auction house Bonhams Hong Kong, talks about the watch auctions to be held in 2022 and the outlook for the auction industry.

The auction industry is entering an era of change

　Will 2022 be another stellar year for the auction industry, especially in the most collectible categories of vintage and modern watches?　

　2021 significantly exceeded expectations in both transaction volume and the level of participation, with nearly every auction house achieving record success. Thanks to ever-increasing digital technology, attendees are now able to bid and purchase online with confidence. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic begins to ease globally, collector travel demand is on the rise, allowing avid collectors and traders to once again visit auction venues around the world.

　This is great, and it will be a great joy for everyone involved with auction houses to see how they have evolved and developed the "Auction Age" into a more interactive and enjoyable experience.

　We've seen auction houses embrace the challenge of blending the traditional methods of live auctions with the evolving technology of online bidding. The evolution of apps shows no signs of slowing down, and for most collectors and dealers, apps have become the go-to tool for connecting them to all auctions taking place around the world.

Will smaller brands see more momentum in 2022?

　So, what does 2022 hold? While well-known watch brands continue to dominate the auction world, there has been impressive progress, including the creation of a diverse and highly collectible community. Smaller brands and independent watchmakers like FP Journe and Philippe Dufour have become household names, and the prices they command continue to soar thanks to investors and watch enthusiasts.

　It will be interesting to see how this increased purchasing power will translate into a smaller brand like De Bethune. Will it be a phenomenal performance on the world stage? Or will it be a brand that rises and falls? Only time will tell. Personally, I believe this brand, with its talented watchmakers and the creativity that makes each watch an incredible work of art, will enjoy great popularity in the future.

　2022 is expected to be an exciting year as the new auction business gains global recognition. Smaller brands are able to demonstrate greater agility and creativity. There will undoubtedly be more dynamic changes and more active interaction with investors.

　With political uncertainty and the effects of the pandemic putting stock markets on edge, 2022 will see an even greater demand for known, trusted and highly collectible items. We are sure to witness record-breaking auctions that will astound the world.