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5 Best Auctions in Johannesburg with Assets Worth the Investment

  • Ownership of own permanent saleroom: Our team considered whether the auction house operates from its own dedicated space, as this often signals professionalism and stability.
  • Location and ample parking: We assessed how easy it was to get to the venue, its centrality to key Joburg areas, and whether there’s enough secure parking for visitors.
  • Affordable rates and charges: We compared the fees and commissions for buyers and sellers to see if the auction house offers fair and competitive pricing.
  • Accessible catalogue: We reviewed the accessibility and quality of their catalogue, whether online or printed, making sure it’s easy to use, up-to-date, and detailed.
  • Customer service: Our team evaluated how friendly and professional the staff were, as well as how well they handled inquiries, provided bidding assistance, and supported us after the auction.

Auction houses offer a mix of history, art, and one-of-a-kind finds. My team and I checked out some of the city’s finest, soaking in the buzz of live bidding and the thrill of hidden gems. Each spot brought its own flavour, making the experience proper exciting for collectors and casuals alike.  

In this review, we break it down for you—what makes these auction houses worth a look and why they stand out. 

1. Strauss & Co Fine Art Auctioneers

strauss-co-fine-art-auctioneers

Website: https://www.straussart.co.za/

Address: 89 Central St, Houghton Estate

Contact Details: +27117288246

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Google reviews score4.7/5
Invaluable reviews score5/5
Hellopeter reviews score1/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency 3.6/5
Ownership of own permanent saleroom5/5
Location and ample parking5/5
Affordable rates and charges4.8/5
Accessible catalogue5/5
Customer service4.7/5

Strauss & Co has been Joburg’s go-to auction house since 2008. From our recent visits, we can confirm their stellar reputation in the South African art market. Their Houghton showroom was easy to get to, with enough parking to keep everyone happy.

What impressed us was their super accessible catalogue system. Whether you prefer the fancy printed versions or their slick website and app, you’ll find detailed info about every item up for grabs. The whole setup made browsing and bidding a breeze, even for auction newbies.

Their pricing structure was straightforward and fair. While they dealt with some seriously expensive art, they also offered more affordable pieces through their online auctions. The staff, especially Arisha’s team, really knew their stuff and offered free valuations.

However, getting help during busy auction days was tricky, and recent complaints about delivery problems and customer service hiccups suggest they’ve got some improvements to make in their operations department.

Pros

  • 16-year auctioneering expertise 
  • Super accessible catalogue system
  • Fair and straightforward pricing structure
  • Own permanent showroom in a convenient location

Cons

  • Slow service during busy auction days
  • Incorrect deliveries

The best art auction house and dealership

“Quite simply the best art auction house / dealership that I have ever used ! I cannot rate them highly enough with only 5 stars. I purchased a painting in May for shipment here, to the UK , a totally new experience for me and I can honestly say it felt easier than buying something at our local corner shop ! Everything was sorted professionally, the purchase, packaging, shipping, VAT and customs. Just perfect. Arisha Maharaj was fantastic and went above and beyond with her excellent help and advice. I shall definitely be buying from Strauss and Co in the future.”

Tim Matthews, Google Review

Professional, efficient, and welcoming

“Wow so professional effecient and welcoming…The best for huge range of upmarket art and achive fabulous prices for sellers”

Jakki Bates, Google Review

2. Bryanston Auctioneers

bryanston-auctioneers

Website: https://baauctions.co.za/index.php

Address: 38 Daniel St, Bryanston, Sandton, 2196

Contact Details: +27 11 463 4666, [email protected]

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Google reviews score4.2/5
Hellopeter reviews score2.9/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency 3.5/5
Ownership of own permanent saleroom4.9/5
Location and ample parking4.9/5
Affordable rates and charges4.3/5
Accessible catalogue5/5
Customer service4.1/5

Bryanston Auctioneers has grown into a well-known name in Sandton’s auction scene since 2009. Based on our recent interactions, their reputation as a leading household and collectables auctioneer was well-earned. 

We found that their location in Bryanston made it easy for locals to pop in and browse their extensive collection.

Their online system is user-friendly and practical. Whether you’re bidding from home or checking out their catalogues, everything is laid out clearly. They run weekly general household auctions, plus special collectable auctions every 3–4 weeks.

We found their pricing structure to be straightforward, with a 15% buyer’s commission excluding VAT. For sellers, they offer free appraisals and arranged collections, which make the whole process hassle-free. 

However, we saw that multiple customers reported damaged goods during collection, unreasonably low valuations, and items being sold below agreed reserve prices. Their customer service could have been more responsive when problems arose, and some sellers complained about delayed payments.

Pros

  • Convenient location 
  • Practical and user-friendly online bidding system
  • Straightforward pricing structure
  • Hassle-free appraisals and payments

Cons

  • Damaged goods during collection
  • Low valuations and items being sold below agreed prices
  • Unresponsive customer service when problems arise
  • Delayed payments

Wrapping done with great care and great after-sales service

The wrapping of my parcel was done with great care! Their dedicated after-sales service is evident even though it was a small purchase. I am grateful for the unexpected sweet gift, thank you!

Core van Rooyen, Google Review

Auction house that adapted best to the covid pandemic

“A constant strean of good quality stock thanks to the upmarket address. Knowledgeable and helpful staff and probably the auction house in jhb that has adapted best to the covid pandemic.”

Dirk Lotriet, Google Review

3. Russell Kaplan Auctioneers

russell-kaplan-auctioneers

Website: http://www.rkauctioneers.co.za/

Address: Bram Fischer Centre, Lower Level, 95 Bram Fischer Drive

Cnr George Street, Ferndale, Randburg 2194

Contact Details: +27117897422

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Google reviews score4.1/5
Hellopeter reviews score3/5
Facebook reviews score4.5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency 4/5
Ownership of own permanent saleroom5/5
Location and ample parking5/5
Affordable rates and charges5/5
Accessible catalogue4.9/5
Customer service4.4/5

Our team’s visit to Russell Kaplan Auctioneers was a delightful experience. Known for its focus on fine art and antiques, RK didn’t disappoint. 

The showroom was well-organized, and navigating through the diverse collection was easy. From vibrant African art to one-of-a-kind collectables, the selection stood out for its quality and character. 

 

What truly impressed us was the welcoming atmosphere. The staff was professional yet approachable; they made sure we felt at home throughout the process. The vibrant energy in the room during the auction was infectious, and it’s easy to see why Russell Kaplan sets record-breaking trends.

  

Their expertise in valuations also stood out. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned collector, their attention to detail and honest advice made them a trustworthy choice. Plus, the pricing was surprisingly accessible for first-timers.  

However, the collection process was slower than we’d expected. Also, for out-of-town buyers, the short window between catalogue release and auction day felt a bit rushed.  

Pros

  • Easy-to-navigate and well-organized showroom
  • Quality collection
  • Professional and welcoming staff
  • Honest and detailed valuations

Cons

  • Slow collection process
  • Short window between catalogue release and auction day, unfavourable for out-of-town buyers

Quality antiques and collectibles stocked to the brim

“So they really have some fantastic treasures in the show room, a variety of quality antiques and collectibles!…..What i like most is that it doesn’t smell like the usual antiques store we are use to, these folks are organized Professionals ! Even though its stocked to the brim, you can easily make your way through everything and simular items are mostly sorted in the same area. They keep their online platform updated, so you can preview online, and if needed go check in the store.”

Marthinus van der Merwe, Google Review

Russel and rest of the staff are great

“Really nice auction house. Russell is such a great guy, always the same, always a smile and warm greeting. All of the staff are great. Sell with confidence. Five stars in my opinion”

David Shelton, Google Review

4. Grand Oak Auctions

grand-oak-auctions

Website: https://www.grandoak.co.za/

Address: Room 101, 1st Floor, Beit Emanuel, 38 Oxford Rd, Cnr, 3rd Ave, Forest Town

Contact Details: +27637401878

Operating Hours: 

Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM,

Friday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Google reviews score4.9/5
TripAdvisor reviews score5/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency 5/5
Ownership of own permanent saleroom5/5
Location and ample parking5/5
Affordable rates and charges4.4/5
Accessible catalogue5/5
Customer service5/5

Our team’s visit to Grand Oak Auction in Joburg was a rewarding experience. From the moment we arrived, the welcoming and well-organised setup made us feel at ease. 

The Forest Town location was the perfect balance between accessibility and elegance, with ample parking and clear directions enhancing the experience.

We were impressed by the wide variety of items up for auction, ranging from industrial machinery to exquisite art pieces. It’s evident that Grand Oak caters to diverse tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The quality of the items exceeded our expectations, making it hard to leave without bidding.

Ari Kuczynski and his team’s service stood out. Their professionalism, warmth, and transparency made the auction process seamless, even for first-timers in our group.

If there’s one downside, it’s the intense bidding competition, which occasionally drove prices higher than anticipated. Still, the value and service make Grand Oak a standout choice.

Pros

  • Welcoming and well-organised showroom setup
  • Accessible location and ample parking
  • Wide variety and quality of items for auction
  • Warm, professional, and transparent team

Cons

  • Intense bidding competition drives prices higher

Professional, helpful, sells with passion

“I have been with Grand Oak Auctions for the past 3 years. Ari, the owner has been so professional, helpful and has sold much for me with his passion in what he does. I am so grateful to him. I would not use anyone else. Ari is approachable and will always try his best for his Clients.

Dont look any further…

Grand Oak Auctions is the Company to use and be so satisfied.🙏😊”

Tracy Smiedt, Google Review

Absolute expertise, surprisingly friendly personal service

“Every second of browsing, asking for advice, honest opinions, before and after service has been met with absolute expertise and surprisingly friendly personal service.i can honestly say it is an absolute pleasure doing business with grand Oak Auctions.”

Annalize Erasmus, Google Review

5. Johannesburg Auctioneers

johannesburg-auctioneers

Website: http://www.jhbauction.co.za/

Address: 8 Naaf St, Strydompark, Randburg, 2169

Contact Details: +27606818055

Operating Hours: 

Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM,

Saturday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Google reviews score4.4/5
Hellopeter reviews score1/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency 3.5/5
Ownership of own permanent saleroom4.9/5
Location and ample parking5/5
Affordable rates and charges4.9/5
Accessible catalogue4.4/5
Customer service4.4/5

Our team checked out Johannesburg Auctioneers, and it’s clear why they’re a trusted name in the city. With years in the game, they’ve earned a solid reputation for professionalism and delivering smooth auction experiences. You know you’re dealing with pros when you walk through their doors.  

Their rates were fair, making them accessible for both buyers and sellers. We found their process transparent, and they took the time to ensure you knew what was happening. 

Their online catalogue was a bonus. It’s easy to browse and gives a detailed look at what’s coming up. 

 

We loved that they have their own showroom, giving you the chance to inspect items before the auction. 

Plus, their central location in Joburg is convenient, and the ample parking is a big win, especially on busy days.  

However, their customer service could use a touch of warmth. It felt a bit transactional. Also, while the catalogue was user-friendly, updates on new listings sometimes lagged. 

Pros

  • Professional and smooth auction events
  • Fair rates and transparent process
  • Easy to browse and well-organized catalogue
  • Convenient location and ample parking

Cons

  • Customer service feels stale and transactional
  • Lags on listing updates

Prompt communication and payments

“I have had the most pleasant experience with Johannesburg Auctioneers and they have put my faith back into client service.  From the first email response, to the collection of the items to Jesse personally going and investigating why some of my items weren’t put out for auction on a given day and then making sure they were put out at the next auction.  I received detailed information of my items that were sold and at what price and I received the money in my bank account on the days promised, sometimes even earlier.  I would like to give Jesse a shout out as she was always so responsive and always willing to help.  She is a pleasure to deal with.  Thank you”

Diane Graham, Google Review

Real auction pros!

I have been to a lot of Auctions and I can safely say that this is the best Auction in the land hands down! These guys are the real Auction Pros… (pun intended) The service is on point for both buyers and sellers. Well done guys keep up the good work.

Victor Moyo, Google Review

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