Step inside a world where fine art meets fantasy, vintage fashion meets aristocratic oddities and every corner tells a story. Russell Kaplan Auctioneers (RKA) has reimagined the art of the auction with the launch of its remarkable new Wunderkammer – a sprawling, 2,500m² showroom that feels part gallery, part department store, part theatre.
This grand unveiling marks RKA’s 23rd anniversary and signals a bold new chapter for the beloved auction house. Housed in a custom-designed space in Ferndale, Randburg, the showroom stretches over two floors, offering a more immersive, thoughtfully curated experience and setting the stage for its inaugural auction, running from 17 to 27 July 2025.
“Rather than displaying everything in one big room, we’ve created spaces that reflect how these objects might live – art in a gallery, books in a library, jewellery in a boutique,” says RKA founder and CEO Russell Kaplan. “We’ve kept the spirit of the Wunderkammer, but given it room to breathe. It’s not about sterile catalogues anymore; it’s about story, setting and connection.”
“The auction world is evolving fast,” Kaplan says. “Millennial and Gen Z buyers want individuality, value and long-term meaning in what they collect. We’ve created an environment that reflects those priorities – without losing the magic that makes RKA what it is.”
The New Auction Playbook
The auction world is undergoing a digital transformation, with online platforms becoming more sophisticated and breaking down geographical barriers. With more buyers bidding online, presentation, logistics, and condition reporting are more important than ever. “We’ve become part auction house, part logistics company,” Kaplan notes. RKA’s upcoming online auction is part of this shift, making it easier than ever to participate – wherever you are.
The trends shaping the market include:
- Accessibility: Auctions are no longer the exclusive domain of elite collectors. Today’s buyers range from seasoned collectors to curious newcomers, with price points from around R1,000 to over R1 million.
- New Generation Buyers: Millennials and Gen Z are redefining what collectors want, prioritising individuality, value and meaningful connections.
- Sustainability: Upcycling and conscious collecting are rising in importance among younger buyers, who prefer investment-worthy pieces over fast fashion. This new generation is driving interest in sustainability and upcycling.
- Luxury Market: High-end collectibles like luxury timepieces and rare art remain strong, with buyers seeking lasting value and craftsmanship.
With this evolving landscape, RKA has designed its new showroom and services to meet the needs of today’s buyers – blending tradition with innovation.
Collecting with Character
With its expanded footprint, curated layout and blend of old-world charm and contemporary thinking, RKA’s new showroom reflects not just where the auction world is heading, but how collectors want to experience it. It’s a space built for exploration, storytelling and connection – whether you’re bidding on a rare collectible or simply browsing with curiosity.
Grand Opening Auction: 17-27 July
To celebrate the launch, RKA will host an inaugural 10-day auction (starting online July 14, with live bidding beginning July 17 through July 27) featuring everything from 19th-century taxidermy and aristocratic portraiture to rare collectibles and mid-century furniture, fine watches and designer bags.
Auction Previews:
Tuesday 15 – Friday 18 July | 09:30–16:30
Saturday 19 July | 09:30–13:00
Find them at their brand-new showroom!
256 Oak Avenue, Corner Republic Road, Ferndale, Randburg, 2194
Visit: www.rkauctioneers.co.za
Photo Credit: Tamsyn Jade Postma