Wallis & Wallis was originally established in 1928 and is now approaching its 100th anniversary, making it one of the longest-standing specialist auction houses in the UK.

The business was founded by two brothers, Major Wallis and Colonel Wallis, both former British Army officers. Originally based in Guildford, Surrey, Wallis & Wallis expanded in the early 1950s with the opening of a second branch in Lewes, East Sussex, where the auction house has remained ever since.

In 1953, the Butler family became part of the Wallis & Wallis story when Roy Butler joined the firm as a cataloguer. By 1971, the family had taken ownership of the business, beginning 54 years of stewardship that saw Wallis & Wallis grow into an internationally respected specialist auctioneer.

In 1981, Wallis & Wallis held its first standalone Toys & Models auction, spearheaded by Roy’s son Glenn Butler. This area of the business continued to grow and became a significant part of the firm’s identity. Under both Roy and Glenn’s care, Wallis & Wallis developed its renowned expertise in arms, armour, militaria, and toys & models, handling countless rare and historically significant items.

Over nearly a century, Wallis & Wallis has been privileged to catalogue and sell items connected to some of history’s most notable figures, including Oliver Cromwell, Napoleon Bonaparte, Admiral Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill, Graf Zeppelin, and Jesse and Frank James, among many others. Each object brought its own story, and every auction reflected the firm’s deep respect for history and provenance.

In July 2025, the Butler family retired from the management of the business, bringing their chapter in the company’s history to a close. Their contribution — and that of previous generations — has shaped Wallis & Wallis into the respected institution it is today.

Looking to the Future

From 1st August 2025, Wallis & Wallis entered an exciting new era under the ownership of Gerald Blaber, Christine Blaber, and Brendan Lawrence. Gerald and Brendan are long-standing members of staff whose combined experience spans many decades, while Christine returns to the business after some years away.

Gerald Blaber has worked at Wallis & Wallis for his entire professional life, developing a lifelong passion and deep knowledge of arms and armour. Known for his approachable nature and enthusiasm, Gerald is always happy to discuss anything from a recent discovery to a lifetime collection.

Brendan Lawrence has been with the firm for over 30 years, with a particular interest in edged weapons. Having worked across goods inwards, cataloguing, packing, and despatch, Brendan ensures that every item is handled with care and precision throughout the auction process. While he prefers to work behind the scenes, his attention to detail plays a vital role in the smooth running of the business.

Together, Gerald and Brendan are supported by a highly experienced team of specialist cataloguers — some of whom have been with the business for many years — and administrative staff, ensuring expert valuations, accurate cataloguing, and a professional, efficient service for both vendors and buyers.

At reception, Victoria Levi oversees customer relations and prides herself on ensuring swift and clear communication via telephone and email. Christine Blaber, alongside her role as part owner, heads the accounts department and manages all payment-related matters.

As the new custodians of Wallis & Wallis, Gerald, Christine, and Brendan are deeply committed to preserving the firm’s legacy while bringing fresh energy, clear vision, and modern efficiency to its future. Their core values remain simple: to provide an efficient, responsive, competitive, and timely service, and to continue building trusted relationships with collectors around the world.

As Wallis & Wallis approaches its 100th year, the future is bright — rooted in tradition, guided by experience, and driven by passion for the remarkable objects we are privileged to handle.