Old-school finds meet new-age vibes at Swartland Auctioneers

MALMESBURY, WESTERN-CAPE - Yes, we know Flip the Market usually talks about gadgets, finance, and digital trends, but while we’re on the subject of gadgets, there’s something to be said for the ones with real history. Also, your editor Liz is off galavanting on a well-deserved break, so you’re stuck with the resident Gen X voice, here to pull you back from all things shiny and new to where quality and character still matter.

If you’ve never visited Swartland Auctioneers in Malmesbury, here’s your sign. Think of it as a treasure-hunt meets time-machine experience, the kind of place where you can score solid, beautifully made items that actually last. Whether it’s a vintage lamp that once lit up someone’s 1950s lounge or a dining set built before “flat-pack” was a word, the finds here are far from mass-produced.

Last week, the team celebrated the opening of their new premises on Schoonspruit Road (Schoonspruitweg), marking a bold step forward for a business that’s been part of Malmesbury’s heartbeat for years. The opening evening, complete with snacks, wine, and 20% off everything on the floor, drew a cheerful crowd who couldn’t help but admire the new setup. It’s sleeker, roomier, and a whole lot more inviting.

Auctioneer Gordon Bain and his right-hand man Trevor Rinkwest welcomed guests with the warmth and humour regulars have come to love. Although no auction took place, the strong sense of community was unmistakable.

For millennials who live for unique finds and sustainability, a Saturday road trip from Cape Town to Malmesbury is worth it. You’re not just shopping; you’re supporting a local business that helps secure local jobs, and keeps money circulating in the Western Cape economy.

This journalist truly believes that sometimes the smartest buy isn’t the newest gadget in your feed, but the timeless one waiting on an auction floor.