“Iconic work. “Extraordinary Experiences” is a new collaboration between Marriott International’s luxury goods group and Sotheby’s auction house. This marks the first time Sotheby’s has auctioned a travel experience through its Sealed program.
The partnership launched the first two experiences in a live online auction, with bidding ending this Friday.
The first installment is Whiskey Reverie: a two-part experience presented by The Ritz-Carlton, starting in New York City and continuing in Nashville. Highlights include a two-night stay in the NoMad Suite at The Ritz-Carlton, New York, and dinner at José Andrés’ The Bazaar, where whiskey expert Fawn Weaver works with guests to pair whiskeys with each course. You’ll then spend two nights in a suite at The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Nashville, and tour the Nearest Green Distillery with mixologist Victoria Eady Butler. ). Sotheby’s expects the winning bid to be between $15,000 and $30,000.
The second lot is Alexander McQueen Discovery: hosted by EDITION, held in London and including a private tour of the Victoria and Albert Museum and a personalized photography event by visual artist Ann Ray, McQueen’s long-time collaborator. You can also stay two nights in a suite at The London EDITION and enjoy a five-course dinner for two with wine pairings at Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton’s Berners Tavern. The auction house expects the winning bid to be between $12,000 and $18,000.
Bidding is conducted online in sealed auctions using the Sotheby’s sealed platform. Bidders cannot see the value of other bids. Once they put in their bid, they’ll see where it ranks, but only if their bid ranks among the top ten.
Partnership develops further
The partnership also offers so-called “master classes” that bring together VIP customers from both brands before the auction items go down. These events give guests the opportunity to gain insights from Sotheby’s experts while experiencing the luxury group’s hospitality.
The two brands also publish curated travel guides with itineraries focused on arts, culture and luxury goods, and collaborate on short-form video content for display on Sothebys.com.
Later this year, the luxury group will expand its partnership with Sotheby’s to offer more offers, masterclasses and programming in New York City. Travel experiences for future auctions will continue to be inspired by the sectors represented in Sotheby’s luxury auctions, including art, fashion, jewellery, watches, wines and spirits.
