Investing in History

In line with the 18^th edition of the Knight Frank Investment Index (which sources its data from Art Market Research, the Fancy Color Research Foundation etc), we have selected key auction highlights from the Catherine Southon Auctioneers & Valuers 2024 archive that align with the top 5 collectibles showing the highest price increase over twelve months. These assets are also notable for their long-term, 10-year price increases, as outlined in The Wealth Report. 

Source: Shirley, A. (ed.) (2024) 18th edn, The Wealth Report 2024. 18th edn. rep. Knight Frank, pp. 62–63.

https://content.knightfrank.com/resources/knightfrank.com/wealthreport/the-wealth-report-2024.pdf

1. Art (11% growth)

Ablade Glover (Ghanaian, b.1934) 'Crowded Market', oil on canvas.

- Hammer price: £8,600 (+BP)  

- Estimated price: £3,000 - £5,000  

- Auction: 31^st July 2024, Antiques & Jewellery

Ablade Glover, a Ghanaian artist and educator, specializes in works that bridge abstraction and realism. Known for capturing the vibrant, energetic spirit of Africa, his art often focuses on depictions of bustling marketplaces, landscapes, and urban spaces. Based in Ghana since 1974, his works are a significant representation of African modernism.

2. Jewellery (8% growth)

A John Galliano (for Christian Dior) Egyptian Revival Turquoise Scarab Necklace

- Hammer price: £450 (+BP)  

- Estimated price: £300 - £500  

- Auction: 27^th November 2024, Jewellery, Silver & Watches

This exquisite necklace features the iconic ‘CD’ monogram atop turquoise cabochons in the form of scarab beetles, with a drop pendant of 18cm.  

Our in-house Jewellery Consultant, Dawn Greenfield, gives credit to this piece: "I love the movement, construction, and time spent making this piece. It shows that jewellery can be beautiful as a piece of art without being made of precious metals or diamonds."

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It is key to note that the following examples for Watches and Coins achieved high hammer prices in part due to the high value of gold per oz (between the 23^rd October 2024 Single-Owner Coin Collection auction and the 27^th November 2024 Jewellery, Silver & Watches auction).

Source: UK Gold Price (GBP), The Royal Mint.

https://www.royalmint.com/gold-price/gold-price-uk/

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3. Watches (5% growth)

A Rolex Day-Date 'President' 118238 Automatic Gentleman’s Wristwatch 

- Hammer price: £11,000  

- Estimated price: £10,000 - £15,000  

- Auction: 31^st July 2024, Antiques & Jewellery

This iconic 18ct gold Rolex features a champagne dial with luminous baton numerals, day and date apertures, and a gold President bracelet. The piece was sold with its original box, guarantee dated 2007, and booklets.

Over the decades, Rolex has built an international reputation for producing durable, reliable, and timeless watches; thus it has maintained its position at the pinnacle of watchmaking by combining heritage with continual technical advancements.

4. Coins (4% growth)

United Kingdom. Royal Mint Elizabeth II 2019 Gold Proof Two-Ounce Coin 'Una and the Lion' 

- Hammer price: £26,000  

- Estimated price: £2,000 - £3,000  

- Auction: 23^rd October 2024, Single-Owner Coin Collection

This limited-edition gold proof coin, with a certificate numbered 043/225, was inspired by William Wyon’s legendary 1839 design; this modern reimagining has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and deep historical connections, ‘Una and the Lion’ is now one of the most coveted coins in modern numismatics, prized not only for its rarity but also for its symbolic representation of strength and virtue.

5. Colour Diamonds (2% growth)  

A Sapphire and Diamond Ring

- Hammer price: £8,000  

- Estimated price: £800 - £1,200  

- Auction: 31^st July 2024, Antiques & Jewellery

Though not a coloured diamond, this striking ring combines colour, clarity, cut and carat weight of two rare gemstones: the 20ct oval mixed-cut sapphire is complemented by four diamond-set shoulders and a platinum shank.

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The auction industry continues to be a lucrative space for investment, offering opportunities to acquire pieces of history. As demonstrated by the above examples, collectibles such as art, jewellery, watches, coins, and colour diamonds are not only unique expressions of craftsmanship but also serve as tangible assets with significant potential for future financial growth.