Auction Houses: The Scottsdale Six
Each auction company has its own atmosphere and specialty, so buyers and sellers alike should research all venues carefully to make sure they select the right sale for their needs. Here’s a guide to the six auction houses presenting events in Scottsdale.
Barrett-Jackson
Where: WestWorld, 3020 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
When: January 12 – 20, 2008
More Info: 480.421.6694; http://www.barrett-jackson.com/
Barrett-Jackson is the granddaddy of the Scottsdale events and 2008 marks its 37th year. More than just an auction, it’s a weeklong event, complete with a charity gala, fashion shows, automobilia auctions, hundreds of vendors, major manufacturer support and attendance by many of the “stars” of the car-collecting, sports and entertainment arenas. With over 1,000 consignments, you’ll see a little of everything at Barrett-Jackson.
Russo & Steele
Where: 18601 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
When: January 16 – 20, 2008
More Info: 602.252.2697; http://www.russoandsteele.com/
Russo and Steele combines very good cars with very good entertainment. Fueled by flashing lights and loud music, the stands surround the stage – the only auction where spectators look down on the action. It’s all designed to face the bidders off against each other and involve the crowd with chants of “SOLD! SOLD! SOLD!” High performance Fords, Mustangs, Shelbys, Cobras, rods and high-end sports cars are the specialties.
RM
Where: Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, 24th Street & Missouri, Phoenix
When: January 17 – 18, 2008
More Info: 800.211.4371; http://www.rmauctions.com/
RM is a premium auction, and so are the bidders. Referred to a “boutique sale” by RM’s Ian Kelleher, this is the smallest of the Scottsdale auctions – this year’s consignments are limited to 100. Don’t let size fool you, though – RM experienced over $30 million in sales at last-year’s event. The cars are fine examples of rare marques – Bugatti, Duesenberg, Ruxton, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Pierce-Arrow and Rolls-Royce. The audience includes some of the world’s most serious collectors, restorers, curators and auto journalists, not to mention many of the Pebble Beach set.
Kruse
Where: Arizona State Fairgrounds,1826 West McDowell Road, Phoenix
When: January 24 – 27, 2008
More Info: 800.968.4444; http://www.kruse.com/
Kruse International claims is among the world’s largest collector car auctioneers. Kruse has been holding an auction in Scottsdale for over 35 years. All types and price ranges of vehicles are represented.
Silver
Where: Fort McDowell Resort Casino, 10424 North Fort McDowell Road, Fort McDowell
When: January 18 – 21, 2008
More Info: 800.255.4485; http://www.silverauctions.com/
Silver Auctions has a relaxed atmosphere with about 500 vehicles in all price ranges – the focus is generally on low- and mid-range post-war American cars. If you’re new to collecting or don’t have big dollars, Silver may be for you.
Gooding & Company
Where: 68th Street & East Camelback Road, Scottsdale
When: January 17-19, 2008
More Info: 310.899.1960; http://www.goodingco.com/
This is Gooding & Company’s inaugural Scottsdale event, but after a record $61 million sale in Monterey, interest is high. Like RM, Gooding & Company caters to the wealthier collectors.
