Buying Guide
How to buy at Alden's Auction
Buying art at Alden's Auction has never been easier — whether you want to attend a live auction, bid online from the comfort of your home, or purchase a piece directly through our private sales service.
Six Simple Steps
Steps for buying
Create an Account
Set up your free account in minutes — required for online bidding and to follow upcoming sales.
Sign upFind What You Love
Browse upcoming sales and lot catalogues curated by our specialists.
Browse auctionsRegister & Bid
Choose how you want to bid — online, in person, by phone, or absentee.
Registration formsPayment & Shipping
Settle within 5 days. We offer in-house shipping and global delivery options.
Payment detailsBuying Privately
Beyond the sale calendar, our specialists can source pieces year-round through private treaty.
Contact a specialistImportant Information
Conditions of sale, buyer's premium, taxes, and bidding increments — everything you need to know.
Conditions & termsWhy buy with Alden's Auction?
Specialists at your service
Dedicated experts in Asian art, fine jewellery, and 20th-century design — here to advise new and experienced collectors alike.
We're closer than you think
Live and online sales accessible globally, with consignors and buyers across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Always opportunities to buy
Multiple seasonal sales each year, plus year-round access to private treaty and online-only auctions.
We've done the hard work
Every lot is researched, authenticated, and condition-checked by our specialist team before going to sale.
Curatorial Standards
Our process includes
Authentication
Specialists evaluate every item to ensure objects sold through Alden's Auction are authentic and correctly attributed.
Provenance
Ownership history, supporting documents, and relevant databases are reviewed to ensure clean title transfer.
Condition Reporting
Every lot comes with a condition report. We always recommend viewing items in person where possible.
Pricing & Estimates
Specialists assess the market value for each lot and assign an estimate range as a guide for bidders.
Reference
Standard Bidding Increments
The auctioneer may exercise discretion to vary increments during a sale.
| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 – $1,000 | by $50 |
| $1,000 – $2,000 | by $100 |
| $2,000 – $5,000 | by $250 |
| $5,000 – $10,000 | by $500 |
| $10,000 – $25,000 | by $1,000 |
| $25,000 – $50,000 | by $2,500 |
| $50,000 – $100,000 | by $5,000 |
| $100,000 – $200,000 | by $10,000 |
| $200,000 and above | by $20,000 |
Ready to start bidding?
Create your account today, then complete the registration form for the sale you wish to participate in.