The Bidding Room

Five dealers compete to buy a selection of items, including a carved temple statue, a block of silver and a penny farthing, each vying to secure the prized pieces. The competition is presented by Nigel Havers, who guides the audience through the dealers' bids and strategies.

The series is a television programme that pits five independent dealers against one another in a race to purchase a selection of unusual objects. Each episode brings together these traders, who must decide whether to spend their funds on items that range from the exotic to the historic. The format centres on the tension of the bidding process, with the dealers constantly weighing the potential value of each piece. Among the objects featured are a finely carved temple statue, a solid block of silver and a vintage penny‑farthing. These items represent the diverse range of artefacts the competitors are allowed to chase, and each one offers a distinct challenge in terms of appraisal and resale potential. The dealers must assess the craftsmanship, rarity and market appeal of the statue, the intrinsic worth of the silver, and the nostalgic charm of the penny‑farthing before committing their money. The show is presented by Nigel Havers, who guides the audience through each negotiation and provides context for the items on offer. His role is to introduce the pieces, explain the rules of the competition and comment on the dealers’ strategies as they vie for the best purchase. Overall, the programme blends the excitement of a buying contest with a showcase of distinctive collectibles, all under the steady narration of Havers, who keeps the proceedings clear and engaging for viewers.