A section called Science and Industry included a single-owner collection of antique scale models and scientific instruments, many associated with the mining industry.

Guy Cairnduff from Leonard Joel says this is part of a general broadening of categories which also included a single-owner collection of electric guitars, although the models and scientific instruments were the most successful on the day.

"On face value, the idea of finding beauty in a piece of machinery seems contrary to accepted notions of aesthetics," writes Cairnduff in the catalogue introduction. "Machinery originally conceived for the pure purpose of commerce now takes on a sculptural quality." Often the work of talented amateurs, the working models were the standouts at the sale, one selling for $46,300 IBP against pre-sale estimates of $6000 to $8000.

This was a scale model of a beam engine displayed in a glass case, made in Sheffield, England circa 1940. It had reputedly been displayed at the Festival of Britain in 1951 and was in working condition, powered by a small electric motor. There was some institutional interest in this lot but their budgets were soon exceeded by two very keen private bidders.

Another in demand was a scale model of the plunger pump from the Lord Nelson Gold Mine at St. Arnaud, in the Wimmera region of Victoria, beautifully made from steel and brass. The Lord Nelson mine was in operation from 1884 to 1915.

It sold for $9600 IBP, well above estimates of $2000 to $4000.

A brass model of a Gatling Gun, one which certainly fits Cairnduff's description of sculpture, sold comparatively cheaply for $970 IBP.

This was one of a number available for under $1000, including a miniature replica of a cannon muzzle, reputedly made from wood salvaged from the wreck of HMS Royal George in 1756. This collection came from one family, who understandably agonised over the decision to sell.

Musical instruments, in this case a collection of electric guitars, were also available. Leonard Joel specialist Sasa Mitic says this segment boomed before the GFC but prices have now levelled out, attracting a new generation of buyers … "Gen X with money," as Mitic describes them. Pre-GFC, the guitar market was dominated by a small group of collectors, and speculators, buying and selling among themselves.

Now these guitars are bought to play … "if it makes money that's a bonus" says Mitic.

1960's Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters are the ones everyone wants at the moment.

The hero item at the sale was the 1963 Fender Stratocaster, the desirable L series, previously owned by Ian Moss (of Cold Chisel) and Kevin Borich. The guitar had been modified by Moss, with a slimmer neck and revised frets to suit his playing style. He also repainted the body several times, which is obvious at the back where the surface has been scraped back to the wood.

This provenance is seen as a bonus to most collectors, but at the auction it could only fetch $16,470 IBP, below the upper estimate of $20,000.

The other highlight was a very early (1953) Fender Telecaster, with its body stripped in the 1960's and some decal wear. It sold for $18,300 IBP, below estimates of $24,000 to $30,000.

A 1965 Fender Strat, the Starburst design in original condition, sold for $17,080. Most results were either below estimates, or passed in. A 1962 Strat, previously owned by Pete Jenkins of Rose Tattoo, could only fetch $9150. Examples of the Fender Jazzmaster, Gibson Les Paul and Gretsch Firebird were all passed in.

Sasa Mitic says this is an indication that collectors who have been waiting for prices to return to 2006 values may now have to lower their expectations.