AN EARLY Victorian Tunbridge-ware workbox on stand in quite remarkable condition proved a big draw among salegoers in the room and those following the event on line.

The beautiful item had been consigned to the sale following a probate call in West Somerset.

Thanks to internet interest bidding opened at £4,000. This rose briskly as a phone bidder also got involved in the action.

Eventually the phone bidder secured ownership of the exceptionally fine piece with a bid of £6,500 – with commission this took the selling price to £8,000.

Prices throughout all sections of the sale were extremely buoyant. There was a particularly large entry of fine jewellery and watches– among the largest seen at The Octagon Salerooms – and this attracted enormous interest and was reflected in a range of strong prices.

Pick among the quality entries was an 18ct gold and diamond solitaire ring. It sold to a room bidder for £2,800.

An oil on canvas of Arab horsemen before a gateway by British artist Arthur Trevor Haddon was bought for £3,950.

A number of phone lines battled for possession of the fine, signed oil painting before a bidder from Belgium emerged with the decisive bid.

Buyers were spoilt for choice with the quality of jewellery and watches on offer. Among the many highlights was £2,000 achieved for a Longines, World War II military gentleman’s wristwatch, which was bought by a net bidder.

A couple of ladies Rolex watches were close behind. An Oyster perpetual date, lady’s stainless steel bracelet watch with its original green leather box and paperwork was bought for £1,700 by a net bidder.

The same buyer also secured a lady’s Oyster perpetual, bi-colour bracelet watch. This sold for £1,550.

A Victorian silver melon fluted four-piece tea service went for £1,800 to another net buyer.

Other prices of note included £2,200 for a charming oil on canvas ‘Terrier by a stable wall’ by William Henry Hamilton Trood and a Chinese altar table fetched £1,450.

Bidders from the Far East, Australia, Canada and Europe joined the sale, which was also well supported by successful local buyers.

Preparations are now in hand for the next antiques sale, which takes place on Thursday, May 2. This will feature a comprehensive section of books and maps. For more information or to consign items please ring the saleroom on 01823 332525.