About Us
A proper North East auction room, founded and run by Max Sinclair and Matthew Watts — and open to everyone, from first-time bidders to lifelong collectors.
Who we are
Welcome to The Auction House North Shields — the coastal auction house that’s quickly becoming the go-to destination for all your auction needs.
The business is founded and run by its owners, Max Sinclair and Matthew Watts, who bring a combined 20 years of experience in antiques, interiors, collectables, auctioneering and property clearances. Between them they’ve handled everything from single family heirlooms to the contents of entire houses.
We offer a refreshing approach to an industry rich in tradition. That means plain answers, honest estimates and a saleroom where first-timers are as welcome as seasoned collectors. Whatever your enquiry, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
Our story
Our first auction was held on 2 June 2025 — and the town finally had a saleroom to call its own. Viewing ran for days beforehand, absentee bids came in, and on the day every one of the fifty seats in the room was taken. The sale was a great success, with an atmosphere that exceeded every expectation, and it settled the question the two of us had been asking for years: this town wanted an auction house. We’ve held regular sales ever since.
There’s a certain atmosphere to a proper auction room, and North Shields is the right town for one: a historic coastal community near Newcastle with a rich maritime heritage and a thriving collector scene, with a collector scene that keeps our saleroom busy. Whether you’re in the room or bidding remotely on our online bidding platform, you’ll find honest lots, fair fees and a warm welcome.
Curious what comes under the hammer? Browse our recent sale highlights, or see when the next sale is.
What our customers say
We don’t write our own reviews — our customers do that for us on Google. Here’s what they’ve said, word for word.
"Max and his team took all the stress out of selling by auction. They phased my clearance over two stages to accommodate my situation. Good value for money too."Google review — clearance client
"Usually the prices I'd pay at auction would be far higher with high lot fees — these guys are the cheapest in the area."Google review — buyer
"Amazing people, very professional and the buying process couldn't be simpler. I've left several absentee bids — fingers crossed I'm going to pick up some bargains."Google review — bidder
Come and see us
The kettle’s usually on and the saleroom is open to everyone — for a valuation, a viewing, or just a look around. We’d be glad to meet you.