If you’re an antiques fan, chances are you’ll recognise Ben Gamble. As Managing Director and Head Auctioneer at Cuttlestones Auctioneers & Valuers, he’s a familiar face on TV shows such as Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, which regularly film in the Penkridge saleroom. Whether on screen or in person, Ben has overseen some of Staffordshire’s most exciting sales, from unexpected ‘sleepers’ to rare treasures that spark global bidding battles. We caught up with him to talk about his career, his most memorable moments in the saleroom, and life beyond the gavel.
Q: What first drew you into the world of antiques and auctions?
A: It was really the challenge of identifying and selling one-off, unusual items. No two days are the same, and you never quite know what’s going to come through the door.
Q: Do you remember the very first lot you ever sold under the hammer?
A: I do – it was a child’s green Raleigh bicycle, which sold for £18. It might not sound like much, but I still remember the buzz of that first sale.
Q: What’s the most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever seen come through the saleroom?
A: A tribal club that looked, to most people, like nothing more than a stick. To our amazement, it went on to sell for over £5,000!
Q: Do you have a personal favourite category of items?
A: It used to be furniture, but these days I’d say memorabilia. As I’m getting older, the furniture’s only getting heavier – memorabilia is much kinder on the back!
Q: If you could take home one dream item from history, what would it be?
A: Without a doubt, an Alberto Giacometti bronze sculpture. His work is just incredible.
Q: Have you ever had a “sleeper” lot?
A: Yes, early in my career we had a painting estimated at £100 that ended up making £10,000. That sort of surprise keeps you on your toes.
Q: What’s the most exciting part of auction day for you?
A: The fall of the hammer on the final lot. There’s such a sense of completion and energy in the room.
Q: Do you get nervous when you’re on the rostrum?
A: Not at all – in fact, it’s my favourite place to be!
Q: What advice would you give to someone attending their first auction?
A: Definitely view the sale first, get a feel for the items… and then go and bid like mad!
Q: And when you’re not auctioneering, how do you like to spend your time?
A: I enjoy a round of golf and watching local football. It’s nice to switch off and unwind.
Q: Tea or coffee on a busy catalogue day?
A: Tea, every time.
Q: Finally, if you weren’t an auctioneer, what would you be doing?
A: I think I’d be living somewhere sunnier, maybe America, and ideally working in sport in some way.
Thinking of selling?
From furniture and works of art to jewellery, coins, collectables and more, the Cuttlestones team offers free, no-obligation valuations. To find out what your items could be worth, contact Cuttlestones Auctioneers & Valuers on 01785 714905, email valuations@cuttlestones.co.uk, or send images via WhatsApp to 07949 603872.
