Michael Hogben
Michael Hogben | |
|---|---|
| Born | Michael Hogben November 6, 1952 Folkestone, Kent, England |
| Occupation(s) | Auctioneer, antiques specialist, author, television presenter |
| Known for | Bargain Hunt, Dickinson's Real Deal, Auction Man |
| Notable work | A-Z of Antiques and Auctions, 101 Antiques of the Future, Collecting Under the Radar |
Michael "Hoggy" Hogben (born 6 November 1952) is a British auctioneer, antiques specialist, author, and television figure recognized for his roles on BBC's Bargain Hunt, ITV's Dickinson's Real Deal, and his own program Auction Man.
Early life
Hailing from Folkestone, Kent, Hogben experienced the loss of his mother at the age of five. He left formal education at 15 and utilized a modest inheritance to establish a fashion store named "Mickey Finn," which he expanded throughout Kent over a decade. After selling this retail chain, he introduced Kent’s inaugural wine bar, McCartney's, located in Dover. In 1988, drawing on his artistic expertise, Hogben founded an auction house in Folkestone, managing it until its sale in 2004. He has since retired from active business.
Television
Hogben joined Bargain Hunt as an expert following the show's filming sessions at his auction venue. He holds the program’s record for the highest profit margin on a single item: purchasing a Royal Worcester box for £140 and reselling it live on BBC One for £800. Although he was screen-tested for the BBC series Flog It!, he opted to concentrate on his business ventures. His charismatic presentation led to the development of Auction Man, a series focusing on his auction house activities, family life, staff interactions, and advice on identifying valuable bargains. The show aired for two series before he retired.
Personal life
In 2000, Hogben wed his longtime partner Lesley, with comedian Vic Reeves acting as best man. He has penned three books: A-Z of Antiques and Auctions, 101 Antiques of the Future, and Collecting Under the Radar.
Works
- Michael Hogben: A-Z of Antiques and Auction
- 101 Antiques of the Future (New Holland, 2007)
- Collecting Under the Radar: Tomorrow's Antiques (Red Rock Press, U.S. edition only, April 2009)