Established in 1825 and with new purpose-built premises in Cambridge, Cheffins sell fine art, furniture, ceramics, silver and jewellery, antiquarian books, classic cars and automobilia. They are also a market leader in the sale of vintage steam engines and associated memorabilia. With a team of nine experienced valuers, associate partner Richard Haywood said that his firm had been watching SOFAA increase in influence within the profession in recent years. “We decided to apply for membership now as we strongly support the professional standards which the society promotes. Their ethical philosophy matches our own.”
Other new members include Gurr-Johns, of Pall Mall in London, it is the largest company in the UK specialising exclusively in the valuation of and advice on antiques and fine art.
Director Charles Young said that he was delighted when SOFAA changed its name and opened its doors to valuers, giving them the opportunity to join.
Two other independent valuers have also been elected.
Christopher Stone has had many years experience in the business and is well known in West Surrey and Hampshire, having set up his valuation business based in Haslemere in October 2003. Previously he had been with Messenger May and Baverstock (later Hamptons) from 1974 to 2003, having been the saleroom director from 1996.
Jonathan Cook is an independent consultant specialising in the valuation, buying, selling and research of furniture on behalf of clients. He worked as a cataloguer and valuer of furniture at Phillips in London, becoming head of department in 1999, a role he continued when Phillips and Bonhams merged in 2002. Jonathan left Bonhams in June 2003 and now works from home near Tonbridge in Kent.
Cheffins swell SOFAA’s ranks
CHEFFINS of Cambridge have joined the Society of Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers, swelling the association’s ranks of auction firm members to 34, including many of the biggest names in the business.
