JNA Nov/ Dec 2020

JNA Nov/Dec 2020 | 13 專題報道 A uction houses relied heavily on digital platforms at the height of virus-led restrictions. The market’s response was promising. Homebound clients – now more receptive to online jewellery auctions – are increasingly buying more expensive lots. Digital events also resonate more with younger, tech-savvy collectors. The allure of live auctions, however, is far from waning, with auction houses looking at incorporating a digital component into their physical sales from here on out. Going digital Bonhams saw steady demand for coloured gemstones of exceptional quality at its auctions in 2020, with buyers continuously seeking sizeable no-oil emeralds, Kashmir sapphires and Burmese rubies. When the coronavirus outbreak hit Hong Kong early this year however, the company had to up the ante. Bonhams launched the “Luxury Online” series in May, where jewellery, watches and other luxury categories were offered together for a one-stop shopping experience. More than 40 per cent of the buyers were new to Bonhams while about a third were under 40 years old. The results were extremely encouraging, according to Leslie Roskind, head of Bonhams' jewellery department in Hong Kong. “The main takeaway is that collectors are more accepting of buying jewellery online – either placing online bids at our closed-door live sales or participating in online sales. This is not a new trend, but the situation this year has certainly accelerated it,” noted Roskind. This pink tourmaline, morganite and diamond suite, comprising a necklace, ring and earrings was sold at Fellows’ Fine Jewellery auction in March 斐樂絲 3 月在高級珠寶拍賣會上售出的粉紅碧璽、摩根石與鑽石套裝，包括項鏈、戒指和耳環 People are looking for new ideas and shopping experience when it comes to online sales. – Charlene Lau, head of Phillips Hong Kong’s jewellery department