In a remarkable event for collectors and enthusiasts alike, a vast collection of celebrity autographs, possibly the largest of its kind, is set to be auctioned. The Clive Bullimore Autograph Collection, amassed by Clive Bullimore, a former stockbroker from Hoddesdon, boasts approximately 60,000 signatures. This impressive assembly, which captures the essence of 20th-century pop culture, is expected to garner over £100,000 at the upcoming auction at Sworders in Stansted Mountfitchet, scheduled from June 16 to 25.
Clive Bullimore’s journey into autograph collecting began at the tender age of 17 in the early 1950s. Despite his demanding job at the London Stock Exchange, he devoted his Saturdays to scouring London’s hotels, theatres, record stores, and TV studios for celebrity encounters. Bullimore often relied on press tips and exchanged information with fellow collectors, sometimes relying on serendipitous meetings at BBC studios. For Hollywood stars who rarely visited the UK, he would send letters requesting autographed photographs or notes.
Even after retiring in 1992, Bullimore’s passion for collecting never waned. He embraced the internet as a tool while continuing to travel to meet public figures. His dedication led to thousands of face-to-face meetings with actors, musicians, sports personalities, and politicians. During the Covid lockdown, Bullimore meticulously organized his collection, ultimately deciding to part with it.
Highlights of the Collection
The collection, featuring over 100,000 autographs from around 60,000 individuals, will be auctioned in 600 lots, divided into three primary categories. Approximately 100 lots consist of autograph albums, each containing a diverse array of signatures. Notable albums include signatures from Jack Bruce (Cream), Nick Rhodes (Duran Duran), and Slash (Guns N’ Roses), with estimated values ranging from £200 to £300 each.
Among the treasures are lever arch files filled with signed photographs, flyers, and letters, organized by theme. Science-fiction fans will be drawn to a lot featuring photos of 13 Star Trek cast members, 47 signatures from Dr. Who, and 33 from Star Wars actors, expected to fetch between £400 and £600. A collection of James Bond actor signatures, including Sean Connery and Roger Moore, is estimated at £400 to £800.
Personal Memorabilia and Treasured Items
Half of the photographs in the collection were taken by Bullimore himself. A set of 71 photographs of female musicians, including Dolly Parton and Diana Ross, is anticipated to sell for £400 to £600. The sports section features three George Best autographs and most of the 1966 World Cup winning team. Additionally, 68 lots of signed vinyl records are included, with a signed copy of The Rolling Stones’ “Let It Bleed” valued at £200 to £400.
A collection of Spice Girls memorabilia, including signed video cassettes, records, and CDs, is estimated at £300 to £600. Bullimore’s personal interactions with Amy Winehouse resulted in signed items like a card with a New Year greeting and a signed single, valued at £200 to £400.
For Bullimore, the collection was more about the thrill of the chase and the friendships formed than its monetary value. Despite few gaps in his archive, he regrets not acquiring signatures from Marlon Brando or Madonna. His family has chosen to keep a few cherished items, such as a Muhammad Ali signed book, treasured by his grandson.
