Sotheby’s, the premier auction house, is diversifying its business model and has launched a new platform that allows consumers to purchase luxury items without having to go through the bidding process and its extra fees.

Sotheby's new platform, Buy Now, bypasses its normal auction process. — **Sotheby’s new platform, Buy Now, bypasses its normal auction process. Image courtesy of Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Sotheby’s**

In a world where consumers are becoming ever more discerning and wanting quick gratification – not to mention digital-savvy – this sort of pivot from Sotheby’s (to complement its auction business) may just be the way forward in how we curate, purchase and consume luxury goods.

Buy Now, the new online platform, houses various product categories, from fine art to collectible sneakers, highly coveted exotic skin Hermes handbags to rare wines and spirits. There are also jewelry, time pieces, writing instruments and classic cars. In addition, Buy Now incorporates what was previously Sotheby’s Home, which featured furniture and decorative items from top designers.

Buy now features designer products such as this Hermes purse — **Items on the platform include a $21,000 Hermès Vert Vertigo Swift and Osier Wicker Panier de Pêche Bag. Image courtesy of Buy Now**

“Our newest platform – the Buy Now marketplace – has been created to connect collectors with beautiful objects easily quickly and provides a complete luxury experience across fine jewels, contemporary art, collectible sneakers, watches, designer handbags, decorative objects, interiors and pens. The model is a fixed-priced format that complements our seasonal auction business, meaning that buyers can purchase items instantly at their convenience… Some highlights currently available include: a limited edition Patek Philippe World Time wristwatch, statement pieces from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and David Webb, a Nike Lobster Dunk sneaker, an unusual Hermes Stromboli bag in alligator and plume de coq, as well as a selection of more than 100 pens from Montblanc and Montegrappa,” says Josh Pullan, Managing Director of Sotheby’s Luxury Division.

**The RIMOWA watch cases were sold out within one week of their feature on the platform, Buy Now claims. Image courtesy of Hypebeast**

The platform showcases Sotheby’s network of art galleries all over the US which sell contemporary artworks for immediate purchase. It also accommodates consumers who are looking to offload their jewellery, watches and Hermes bags via a consignment program. Of course, submitted items will go through the auction house’s rigorous vetting process

You can start shopping on the Buy now platform here today.

Source: Forbes