Phillips

Founded in 1796 by Harry Phillips, Phillips Auction House is the art world's sleek underdog, nipping at the heels of its more established rivals with a keen eye for contemporary art and design. Known for its edgy auctions that often feel more like a fashion show than a stodgy sale, Phillips has carved out a niche for itself by championing the avant-garde while still catering to those with deep pockets. With locations in major art capitals like New York and London, and a growing list of subsidiaries, including Phillips Watches, it’s clear that Phillips is serious about shaking up the auction scene—even if it sometimes feels like the scrappy younger sibling trying to outshine its more traditional competitors.