LONDON, Mar 26: Digital auction house AstaGuru on Thursday announced its official entry into the UK with a dedicated office in London, driven by “a rising demand from European collectors and a growing Indian diaspora” in the city.
The expansion will formalise with AstaGuru’s first UK auction event, scheduled for May 27, featuring fine watches and high-complication timepieces from global watchmakers.
The UK expansion will be followed by the launch of offices in Singapore and New York by the end of 2026.
“London has always been at the heart of the global art and luxury market. With a permanent presence here, we are bringing a single, digital-first platform that connects global collectors with exceptional art and luxury. Our clients in the UK and Europe now have local support to engage with curated auctions with transparency and
accessibility,” Manoj Mansukhani, director of marketing at AstaGuru, said in a statement.
Since its founding in Mumbai in 2008, the auction house has expanded its portfolio beyond Indian modern and contemporary art to include fine jewellery, watches, luxury collectibles, miniature paintings and rare books. It currently holds a 40 per cent share of the Indian auction market.
As part of the expansion, the auction house has appointed seasoned auction experts, Laryssa Jesse as managing director, UK, and Tim Bourne as international director, global head of watches.
“AstaGuru’s arrival in London marks a pivotal moment for the European art and luxury market. By leveraging our expertise across art, jewellery, watches, and luxury collectibles on a native, digital-first platform, we are making high-value collecting more accessible and transparent for a new generation of global collectors who value data-driven insights, curated excellence, and seamless client experiences,” Jesse said.
Bourne said that the upcoming auction is “just the start of connecting collectors worldwide”.
“With over 25 years in the watch market, I’m thrilled to bring my expertise to the UK through AstaGuru’s digital-first platform. The auction in May is just the start of connecting collectors worldwide with exceptional watches, art, and luxury collectibles. The market is evolving rapidly, and our platform makes it easier than ever for collectors, whether seasoned or emerging, to participate,” he added.
To celebrate the launch, AstaGuru will host a series of private viewings and educational seminars in London throughout the spring, aimed at both seasoned connoisseurs and new investors looking to diversify their portfolios. (PTI)
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