Sydney, 2 June 2026 - Bonhams Australia achieved a white-glove triumph across the first four auctions of The John Laws CBE Collection, with each 100% sold and achieving a combined total of over AU$5 million. The landmark series continues this week with further online auctions, including Luxury Collectibles, extending opportunities for collectors to acquire pieces from one of Australia's most iconic cultural figures.
Formed over five decades, the John Laws CBE collection spans fine art, rare horology, European furniture, antiquities, rare books and luxury collectibles, reflecting the cultivated taste and dedicated collecting pursuits of the nation's broadcasting legend. The series ignited widespread excitement and strong market interest following its announcement. It drew packed previews in Melbourne and at the Laws' Woolloomooloo residence, fuelling competitive bidding across the board.
Merryn Schriever, Managing Director, Bonhams Australia, commented: '"The result achieved by The John Laws CBE Collection is a testament to both the quality of the objects assembled by John Laws CBE and Caroline Laws over many decades, and the strong interest the sales generated among collectors. Realizing in excess of AU$5 million thus far, with further auctions yet to finalise, the collection attracted participation from across Australia and internationally, with competitive bidding evident throughout the series.
The sale demonstrated the enduring appeal of carefully curated collections and highlighted the significance of John Laws CBE's legacy as one of Australia's most recognisable broadcasting figures. We are delighted to have achieved such an outstanding outcome on behalf of the Estate."'
THE JOHN LAWS CBE COLLECTION
2 June 2026 | Live, Sydney
Sale total: AU$2 million, doubling its low estimate
110 lots, 100% sold
The opening evening sale offered a glimpse into the private world of John Laws CBE and Caroline Laws. Drawn from the Laws' residences and properties worldwide, the collection reflects Francophile sensibilities and a disciplined, discerning eye.
Merryn Schriever, Managing Director, Bonhams Australia, commented on the sale: "The exceptional performance of the Auguste Rodin bronzes and fine Antiquities was particularly noteworthy. It reflects the collaborative effort across Bonhams' global network. We were fortunate to draw on the expertise of colleagues in specialist departments, including Impressionist and Modern Art and Antiquities, whose knowledge helped position the collection with authority."
The top lot of the sale was Australian artist Joel Elenberg's Anna I, 1978, from the artist's critically acclaimed 'Anna' series, which achieved AU$467,400 (estimate: AU$300,000 to 400,000).
Other standout results included:
• Paul César Helleu, Mme Helleu Sur le Yacht, L'Étoile, c.1900, achieved AU$233,700 (estimate: AU$150,000 to 250,000)
• Torso of a Crouching Venus, After the Antique, white marble with stone plinth, achieved AU$172,200 (estimate: AU$3,000 to 5,000)
• Auguste Rodin, Nu féminin couché dit aussi 'Étude pour Ariane', conceived between 1887 and 1890, cast by the E. Godard foundry in 1986 in an edition of 12 numbered 1/8-8/8 and I/IV-IV/IV, achieved AU$92,250 (estimate: AU$40,000 to 60,000)
THE JOHN LAWS CBE COLLECTION: TIMEPIECES
3 June 2026 | Live, Sydney
Sale total: AU$1.7 million, nearly doubling its low estimate
74 lots, 100% sold
Representing the largest single-owner collection of prestige watches ever offered in Australia, the Timepieces sale reflected Laws' unmistakable aesthetic, bold, golden and unapologetic, drawing international participation and competitive bidding throughout.
The top lot was a yellow gold Patek Philippe Nautilus "Jumbo", ref. 3700/11, circa 1985, which realized AU$209,100 (estimate: AU$150,000 to 250,000). Another highlight is a rare Rolex ref. 6062, a yellow gold triple calendar bracelet watch with moon phases, circa 1953, sold for AU$159,900 (estimate: AU$80,000 to 120,000).
THE JOHN LAWS CBE COLLECTION: MOTORING
3 June 2026 | Live, Sydney
Sale total: AU$806,400
4 lots, 100% sold
This auction presented three exceptional luxury motor cars from Laws' legendary collection as well as an iconic NSW heritage number plate. The top lot, a 2007 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé, sold for AU$308,000 (estimate: AU$200,000 to 300,000), while a Heritage Number Plate 123123 achieved AU$106,400.
THE JOHN LAWS CBE COLLECTION: FINE INTERIORS
22 May, 5 June 2026 | Online
Sale total: AU$503,082, nearly tripling its low estimate
201 lots, 100% sold
This sale captures the refined ease of the Laws' way of life, from 18th- and 19th-century French Provincial furniture, Venetian hand-blown glassware and Chinese export porcelain to outdoor furnishings and garden statuary. Among the highlights, a 19th century Venetian mirror soared to AU$27,060 (estimate: AU$1,000 to 2,000), while a pair of cast stone Medici Lions achieved AU$20,910 (estimate: AU$3,000 to 5,000).
'The John Laws CBE Collection: The Library' closes today, while 'Luxury Collectibles' (closing 12 June) remains open for bidding. Full results are available on bonhams.com.
(Press Release)
