A season for something special: Antiques, interiors, wine and spirits at Yorkshire auction house

Hartleys Auctions in Ilkley is preparing two particularly exciting sales this November and December, offering everything from exquisite antiques and sparkling jewellery to rare whisky, fine wines and vintage port.

December 2 sale – perfect for Christmas gifts

The December 2nd Antiques and Interiors auction, traditionally known as Hartleys Christmas Sale, offers a wonderful opportunity to discover unique Christmas presents, timeless treasures or to find something special to enjoy at home when family and friends gather round.

With an eclectic selection spanning traditional antiques, contemporary design and beautiful jewellery, there really is something for everyone.

Among the traditional offerings are some glorious examples of Royal Worcester porcelain, including hand-painted and lavishly gilded pieces that bring a touch of grandeur to any interior.

Of particular note is a magnificent Royal Worcester pot pourri and cover, dating from around 1960 and painted by the celebrated Harry Ayrton. Standing 13 inches high, this exceptional piece features a beautifully executed still life of apples and blackberries, complemented by delicate gilt detailing. It carries an estimate of £2,000–£3,000.

For those with a preference for cleaner lines and modern interiors, the sale also embraces the enduring appeal of mid-century design. Scandinavian influences, modern art and beautifully crafted furniture feature throughout, including an A. H. McIntosh teak 'Dunbar' sideboard, designed by Tom Robertson. With its elegant proportions, practical storage and understated style, this is an attractive example of mid-century British furniture, estimated at £300–400.

Jewellery is, of course, always a welcome addition to any Christmas stocking, and this year's selection is particularly enticing. Highlights include an Art Deco-style emerald and diamond fan ring, centred around a striking 1.28-carat emerald and estimated at £2,500–£3,500. Also featured is an impressive 5.05-carat sapphire and diamond dress ring, accompanied by a WGI certificate and carrying an estimate of £6,000–£7,000. Alongside these sparkling highlights, a once-yearly selection of silver and bijouterie offers a delightful collection of smaller treasures, curiosities and fine oddities sure to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The fully illustrated Antiques and Interiors catalogue will be available on the Hartleys Auctions website from November 14th.

November 21 sale – wine, port and whisky

Before then, on November 21st, the firm will host its much-anticipated annual Wine, Port & Whisky auction. Always one of the most convivial sales in the calendar, it attracts enthusiastic collectors, buyers looking to secure interesting investments and those simply relishing the prospect of enjoying something rather special over Christmas.

The sale offers some early port, showy champagne, some very quaffable wine and a particularly large section of whisky.

Although there are some rather affordable and drinkable lots throughout the sale, there are also some real gems for those wanting to invest.

A particular highlight – and a favourite for Charles Hartley, auctioneer and valuer at this family firm – is a wonderfully bottled and extremely rare 'Old Grans Special Toddy' Highland whisky, bottled by Charles Wright & Son Ltd. and dated 1916. With an estimate of £150–£250, it is a fascinating piece of whisky history.

For those seeking something with investment potential, there are some particularly exciting offerings.

A rare Longrow 14-year-old Campbeltown single malt, presented in a Gordon & MacPhail box, carries an estimate of £800–£1,200. Wine enthusiasts may also be tempted by a 1996 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St. Jacques from Domaine Armand Rousseau, estimated at £700–£1,000. Meanwhile, a 1944 vintage port from Niepoort, estimated at £120–£200, provides another wonderful opportunity to acquire a bottle with history.

But getting something a bit different for the Christmas dinner table or festive drinks gathering, doesn’t have to be expensive.

New world wines, an eclectic case of quaffable plonk or unwanted gifts of classic spirits, can all be discovered in today’s auctions, says Charles, who co-directs the business alongside his sister, Emma Padgett.

As the fourth generation of their family to manage the business, they continue a longstanding tradition of expertise, enthusiasm and personal service.

Emma Padgett states that nobody should be shy about buying at auction. There are many different methods of bidding and it is much easier than you might think. Our team are very happy to guide you through all the different options whether it be bidding in person in the room, bidding live over the internet from your kitchen table or leaving your bids with us prior to the auction and we will happily bid on your behalf.

Whether searching for an extraordinary Christmas present, adding to a collection or simply treating oneself to something memorable, Hartleys forthcoming auctions offer plenty to tempt.

A shopping experience with a difference

From exquisite porcelain and sparkling gemstones to rare whisky and distinguished wines, there is no shortage of treasures waiting to be discovered this festive season.

Buyers come from all over the UK to compete with those on the online bidding platforms.

“The sale never fails to come with an excited carnival atmosphere,” says Charles.

For further details about Hartleys and individual lots, visit the website