and to run it for just one day. Bonhams took advantage of the
Mecums Auction with their long-standing reputation pulling in
auction goers from around the world. Meanwhile, Bonhams
new event would profit from that draw since it allowed them
to enjoy the “halo effect” of their proximity in location and
timing of their auction allowing attendees to go to both the
Bonhams and Mecums auctions.
By preempting the Mecums Auction by one day, the
Bonhams Auction seemed to have the effect of getting
some of those eager buyers parting with their cash that was
burning holes in their pockets. The early Bonhams Auction
goers made some purchases at Bonhams before they were
again distracted by all of the other bikes becoming available
during the auctions that followed the next day.
So what is the difference between the two events?
www.thunderroadscolorado.com
The Bonham Auction is basically auctioned with British
auctioneers. The Mecum is auctioned with American
auctioneers.
One of the most noticeable aspects of the Bonhams Auction
is that the auctioneers at Bonhams use their British charm and
reserve to conduct their auctions. The auctioneers all speak
in clean, crisp English-accented voices; delivering everything
at a rate even I can understand and assimilate. Bonhams
upholds their reputation as a high-end, international auction
house and they also seem to have arranged to have unique
and rare marques and models so the Bonham Auction feels
more upscale than the Mecums Auction.
The Mecums have American auctioneers that kick-off the
bidding in the American auction tradition and In contrast,
the Mecum Auction is a lot like attending a cattle auction
February 2016
Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado 13