Meet Kim Rose this September as he brings his exclusive roadshow, insights from decades in jewellery, and tales from his remarkable life to the island.
Kim has spent more than 40 years in the jewellery trade, specialising in antique and vintage jewellery, gold, silver, and costume items. He now runs Auctions @ Number 1 in Gosport, where he serves as resident auctioneer, bringing his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm to each sale. The auction house which he co-owns with director Linda, hosts a wide range of jewellery, artwork, and collectibles.
Kim says his personal experiences have shaped both his work and outlook on life. Speaking about his early years, he comments:
“I had to grow up fast. Leaving school at 14 wasn’t easy, but it taught me determination and how to really understand people.”
Those early challenges gave Kim a unique perspective on resilience and human nature, which he has carried into every aspect of his career. He has also had a long association with politics, starting off with the Socialist Labour Party before later becoming involved with Nigel Farage and the campaign to leave the EU. Reflecting on his political journey, he says:
“Politics goes round in circles. Why should people be pigeonholed?”
Kim is particularly remembered for challenging then-Chancellor Gordon Brown over the sale of the UK’s gold reserves at the turn of the century. Between 1999 and 2002, 395 tonnes of gold were sold at historically low prices, which Kim claims cost the nation an estimated £7 billion. He sought a High Court injunction to stop the sales, though the effort fell through due to lack of financial backing. Kim comments on the scale of the loss:
“Gordon Brown decided to sell the gold at the lowest prices for 20 years and he carried on selling when the prices were going down. If he had kept hold of the reserves we would be £7bn better off now.”
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Kim’s time in politics also revealed his lighter, approachable side. During his election campaign in 2015, he famously offered sausage rolls and Jaffa Cakes to local children at a community event. The gesture briefly made headlines, with some alleging “voter influence,” but the police quickly dismissed the claim. Kim jokes:
“If I had won, it would have been on sausage rolls and Jaffa Cakes.”
For Kim, the heart of his work has always been about people, not just possessions. He says:
“I’ve been giving advice since 1976. It’s nice to see and talk to people.”
“People often don’t realise the value of what they have. I’ve heard horror stories of people trying to send valuables by post.”
Now, Kim is bringing that same warmth and personal approach to the Isle of Wight. The roadshow is as much about connecting with people as it is about jewellery, giving him the chance to meet residents, enjoy conversations over coffee, and learn the stories behind the pieces. Kim says:
“I’ve fallen in love with the Isle of Wight. There is a slower pace. People have more time. There is more human decency.”
“I want to meet everyone on the Isle of Wight. Have a coffee and a chat, meet and integrate, learn the history of objects.”
ROADSHOW LOCATIONS – ISLE OF WIGHT
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Friday 19th September – Wilberforce Hall, Brighstone, 09:00 to 13:00
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Saturday 20th September – Royal Esplanade Hotel, Ryde, 10:00 to 14:00
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Sunday 21st September – Royal Esplanade Hotel, Ryde, 10:00 to 14:00
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Monday 22nd September – St Lawrence Village Hall, 13:00 to 16:00
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Tuesday 23rd September – Rookley Village Hall, 12:00 to 15:00
Whether you are hunting for a timeless gift, a statement piece, or simply wish to browse, Kim Rose’s roadshow promises a personal, memorable, and educational experience — and a chance to meet one of the jewellery trade’s most knowledgeable, resilient, and engaging figures.
One of the dates you have given states Thursday 19th September, but the 19th is on Friday. Would you please clarify?