Sotheby’s auctions are a completely different world for myself and other permanently broke folks. Trying to stroll into one would be embarrassing for two reasons: first, I have no understanding how these Rich People EventsTM function, and second, I’d probably be stopped at the entrance anyhow since I exude “poor people” feelings.
Fortunately, I can now sample the opulent lifestyle since Sotheby’s is launching Sotheby’s Buy Now in Asia, with the first launch taking place right here in Hong Kong. For the first time, authenticated and rare historical art and luxury artefacts are accessible for purchase through the auctioneer’s worldwide web platform — which means that people like me may now acquire art and fashion treasures without having to attend a live auction.
To commemorate Sotheby’s Buy Now’s expansion throughout Asia, the auctioneer is hosting a two-week show in Central dubbed “Sotheby’s En Route.” With an exhibition of more than 40 of the rarest Hermès and Chanel handbags, the physical presentation provides visitors a peep into the products on its internet platform. A White Matte Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Birkin 30, a Limited-Edition Menthe Swift and Osier Wicker Picnic Birkin 25, and a Black Quilted Lambskin Mini CC In Love Heart Belt Bag are all available now.
“Our ambition for Buy Now is to establish a year-long, accessible and intuitive destination for extraordinary objects, thereby gaining our customers access to Sotheby’s unparalleled 278-year company heritage and preeminent collecting track record while integrating this new channel with our leading auction offering,” says Nathan Drahi, Managing Director of Sotheby’s Asia.
With a new generation of collectors who have increasingly sophisticated purchasing habits (read: online), it’s natural that Sotheby’s is looking into new ways to reach a wider audience. Even though I won’t be able to afford anything at the exhibition, seeing the handbags in person makes me feel like I’m one step closer to living the luxurious life I’ve always desired.
Hermès Birkin and Kelly Bags are the most expensive handbags sold at auction at Sotheby’s.
Chanel Cage Flap bag from the 1990s, Minaudière bags, LED Boy bags, and Space 2.55 Flap.
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