I am not a car collector or a trader of classic and vintage cars. I do enjoy seeing classic vehicles, and during Arizona Auction Week there are several events that you can attend. Each one might be said to cater to a different audience.

In 2009 I attended the Gooding & Company car auction in Scottsdale. Take a look at the pictures! Here are a few tips about the event that you might find useful if you are thinking about going as a spectator.

1. The Gooding & Company car auction is relatively new to the Phoenix area. Their first classic car auction was held in Scottsdale in 2008.
2. This event does not have as many cars as some other auctions taking place in the area on what has become known as Arizona Auction Week, but they are considered to be of consistently high quality.
3. Serious collectors attend this auction, but there are many people who are not bidding.
4. I found the patrons of this event to be very knowledgeable about cars. Even if they weren't bidding, the people I came in contact with wanted to talk about their collection, their relationship to the world of classic cars or a particular car that they was following.
5. Still, there is no requirement that you have any knowledge of classic cars to attend Gooding & Company. After all, I was there! This is a great place to learn about classic cars and the enthusiasts who are actively involved with them.
6. You can get a Pocket Guide that lists all the lots and the approximate values of the vehicles. If you want to enjoy photos and extensive descriptions of every vehicle being auctioned, the full color catalog is available for purchase.

1. Not every vehicle on display and auctioned here is for millionaires only. There are cars, motorcycles and specialty vehicles that are sold in the low to mid 5-figure range.
2. You might think that there are no bargains here, but many of the vehicles are auctioned at no reserve (no minimum bid required).
3. This is a particularly male and mature crowd. You can get a feel for the typical clientele for this auction from my photos. It isn't really considered a family outing. This is not a place for children.
4. The standard dress for this event would best be described as business or resort casual. I saw women in little black dresses and men in suits with bow ties. I saw shorts and flip flops. Most of the attire was somewhere in between.
5. If you are a spectator and not a bidder you may not sit in the reserved sections on auction day. Take a place at the back of the room. Seats become scarce about 15 minutes before the auction begins.
6. I found the auction itself as enjoyable as looking and reading about all the classic and vintage cars. Follow along in your pocket guide to see which cars are sold at their anticipated price and which bidders get a bargain. The auctioneer is very easy to understand and adds personality to the proceedings.
7. What you won't find: crafts or knickknacks. If you are looking for neon signs for your game room or die cast toy cars, you are at the wrong auction.
8. Food and beverages, including alcoholic beverages, are available for purchase. Beer/wine will cost you about $4 each and mixed drinks go up from there.
9. If you need an excuse to get out of town during the dog days of summer, the Gooding & Company auction for which they are best known takes place in Pebble Beach in August.

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