What is your estate worth? Have you considered selling? Perhaps you’re looking for that rare piece to complete your prized collection? Hobson & Schoon can help.
Adam Schoon is a highly regarded British Antiques Expert, Consultant, and Television Personality with over 44 years of experience in the antiques industry. Adam is widely known for his extensive general knowledge but has particular expertise in Chinese, Japanese, and Himalayan works of art and porcelain. He is entering his 25th year as a member of the BBC TV Antiques Roadshow team and previously appeared and consulted for numerous other BBC programmes since 1990, including BBC TV Going For A Song presided over by Michael Parkinson, Michael Aspel, and Anne Robinson. Adam used his unique style of presentation and depth of knowledge. He has become a trusted figure in the world of antiques.
Adam began his career as a trainee valuer in 1980, before establishing himself as an independent consultant in 1990. Since then, he has worked with a wide range of prestigious clients, including major auction houses, national museums, universities, and private collectors. His resume includes vast experience in Independent Valuations, Appraisals, Expert Witness work and Auctioneering -where his reputation for integrity and accuracy is recognised.
Adam’s commitment to cultural heritage extends to his roles as a former trustee of The Bowes Museum and is currently Honorary Curator of Paintings for the Company of Merchant Adventurers in York. His dedication to the preservation and appreciation of art and antiques continues to inspire both collectors and audiences worldwide.
Born in York, North Yorkshire, George attended Grammar School as a boarder, receiving an education steeped in tradition, which played a pivotal role in shaping his interests and ambitions.
George moved abroad to explore his entrepreneurial spirit. His career journey took him across the globe, including to the US, India, Cyprus, UK and UAE where he engaged in property development and investment consultancy. This diverse experience eventually opened the door for him to acquire an Auction House in Portugal. Indeed George has now been based in Algarve for over ten years. After successfully expanding the business, George sold his equity stake to embark on a new venture.
Partnered with Adam Schoon to establish Hobson & Schoon, George brings business acumen, an extensive network of contacts, and strong marketing focus to the new venture.
Throughout his career and ventures involving mergers and acquisitions George has also developed his passion for collecting, amongst other things, watches, antiquities, bronzes, pens, vintage cars and supercars! George has grown to love the cut and thrust of the world of art and antiques.
Contact: George@HobsonSchoon.com
Simon Mercer brings over 30 years of experience and passion to the world of fine wines, whiskys, and ports. His journey began with a single case of 1986 Château du Tertre, a fifth-growth Bordeaux, whose explosive flavors sparked a lifelong dedication to collecting and curating some of the world’s most exceptional beverages.
Simon’s extensive wine collection has grown from a modest few cases to an enviable assemblage of globally renowned vintages. He has traveled extensively, studying and sourcing fine wines from top vineyards, and deepening his expertise through formal courses and immersive experiences. His favorite? The masterful Bordeaux blend Seña, crafted in Chile’s Aconcagua Valley through biodynamic viticulture. Simon praises its world-class quality at a fraction of the cost of traditional first-growth wines.
For Simon, wine is more than a beverage—it’s a dynamic investment. While some bottles are savored, others are traded as their value appreciates. His philosophy strikes a balance: drinking the underperformers and celebrating the successes with friends and clients. Simon’s adventures even led him to savor a bottle of the legendary Screaming Eagle 2008 vintage in Chengdu, China—an unforgettable experience.
Simon’s expertise extends beyond wine to the fascinating world of fine whisky. His introduction to cask-strength malts came in 2015 while mentoring a fledgling whisky business. Today, that enterprise is a multimillion-pound global operation. Inspired by this mentorship, Simon began his own whisky journey, amassing a distinguished collection of hundreds of bottles and several casks, representing diverse regions from Scotland and Ireland to China and the Falkland Islands.
A devotee of the enchanting Islay malt, Caol Ila, Simon appreciates its malty sweetness, intoxicating peatiness, and delicate floral undertones. While the whisky market has seen rapid growth, Simon advises caution, emphasizing the importance of provenance in this unregulated space, mirroring the care required for fine wine investments.
Whether curating bespoke collections, advising on investment opportunities, or simply sharing the stories and flavors of his journey, Simon Mercer is dedicated to connecting enthusiasts with the finest experiences in wine, whisky, and port.
From a single bottle, casks or entire cellars, Simon can help put a value on your collection. Reach out today for your free consultation!
Based in Richmond, London, Sue Haswell is a trusted Independent Antiques, Art, and Collectibles Specialist for Hobson & Schoon, serving Greater London, the South of England, and beyond. With decades of experience in the antiques world, Sue provides expert valuations for a range of purposes, including sales, capital gains tax (probate), family division, and insurance. No matter the scope or scale of the inquiry, Sue is committed to offering approachable, tailored advice and guidance.
Sue’s deep knowledge of antiques is complemented by her specific passion for silver and objets d’art. As a highly respected antiques dealer, she has built a reputation for professionalism and expertise. Her extensive experience includes collaboration with Adam Schoon on valuations for private collectors, museums, councils, and universities across the UK and Europe.
Clients benefit not only from Sue’s broad understanding of antiques but also from the specialist network at Hobson & Schoon, covering areas such as jewellery, fine art, watches, furniture, European and Asian ceramics, and works of art. Sue is dedicated to ensuring valuations are accurate, competitive, and tailored to individual budgets and deadlines.
For those looking to sell, Sue offers bespoke advice on the most effective and economical avenues, whether through specialist auctions, private collectors, or targeted sales to dealers.
Sue also coordinates comprehensive house clearance services across the UK, ensuring a seamless process for clients navigating the often-challenging task of liquidating estates.
With a wealth of experience and a client-first approach, Sue Haswell is your dedicated partner in navigating the world of antiques, art, and collectibles with confidence and expertise.
