The CEO has the floor - August
August is often a slightly quieter month on the auction scene, and so it is this year. But beneath the surface, it is noticeable that we are facing a trend shift. I see bidding continuing to be lively and interest high, but willingness to pay has slowed compared to recent years. At the same time, we have had a very strong influx of objects – something that bodes well for the autumn. It is also extra nice that our No Reserve auctions have received attention and resulted in several really successful closings.
I do not see the reduced willingness to pay we have seen in August, especially for older items from the 50s and 60s, as a decline. Rather, it is a sign that the market is maturing. As in all enthusiast segments, there is a generational shift, and new buyers are looking for cars from their own childhood. This means that interest is increasingly directed towards 80s, 90s and early 00s cars – modern classics that can both be used in everyday life and that arouse the right kind of nostalgia in a new target group.
Let's not belittle older enthusiasts: 50s and 60s cars still have strong cultural significance, but we are noticing a clear slowdown in pricing. For me, this is not negative – on the contrary, it shows that the market is maturing, where quality, documentation and usability weigh increasingly heavily. The right examples will always attract collectors, but the broad masses now see greater potential in the more modern classics.
Examples from August's auctions:
1961 Saab 96 De Luxe - 79.000 SEK
A Swedish icon that continues to attract with its charm and early rally history.
1991 Nissan 300ZX - 230.000 SEK
Tech-heavy 90s classic, now highly valued among younger buyers.
1948 Chrysler Windsor Club Coupé - 145.000 SEK
American elegance that shows that post-war classics still find their homes.
1985 Volvo 760 GLE - 168.000 SEK
A typical modern classic with strong nostalgic value, which is reflected in the price.
1954 Jaguar Mk VII - 149.500 SEK
British influence, but where the market has become more selective. But check out the color!
1993 BMW 525 TDS - 167.500 SEK
Former everyday car that has been given enthusiast status in well-preserved condition. A model on the rise that guaranteed strong bidding with a no-reserve auction.
In conclusion, I think August reminds us that the market is not going down, but changing. Modern classics are driving interest forward, while older icons are finding new heights. For buyers, this means great opportunities – and for those of us who follow developments, the autumn will be really exciting.
See you out there!
By the pen and the mallet
Jacob Odqvist, CEO Bidders Highway