There is no event quite like the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction. Every January, WestWorld of Scottsdale in Arizona transforms into the epicenter of the automotive universe. With thousands of vehicles crossing the block over the more than week-long event, the sheer volume of chrome, horsepower, and history can be overwhelming.
If you want to do more than just window shop, you need a strategy. Building a “Watch List” isn’t just about picking your favorites—it’s about focused research so that when your dream car hits the stage, you’re ready to act.
The Scottsdale Experience in One Minute
The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale January event is the flagship of the auction circuit. “Crossing the block” refers to the high-stakes moment a vehicle is driven onto the auction stage to be sold to the highest bidder. Because Scottsdale features everything from multi-million dollar charities to entry-level classics, planning early is the only way to ensure you don’t miss the specific Lot you’ve been dreaming of.
Start With the Docket and Build Your Watch List
The official Scottsdale docket is your source of truth. It’s updated constantly in the weeks leading up to the event. To keep your sanity, organize your potential picks into three buckets:
- The “Must Bid”: Vehicles that fit your collection perfectly and meet your pre-determined budget.
- The “Inspect First”: Cars that look great in photos but require an up-close look at the paint, interior, and engine bay.
- The “Just for Fun”: The “wildcard” cars you want to watch just to see where the market is moving.
Categories That Always Draw a Crowd
While every year brings surprises, certain categories are staples of the Arizona auction scene. Keep an eye on these hot segments:
- Classic American Muscle: Hemis, Boss 429s, and GTOs remain the heartbeat of the auction.
- Restomods and Customs: Professionally built classics with modern drivetrains and air conditioning are currently the most popular segment for “drivers.”
- Modern Exotics & Supercars: Low-mileage Ferraris, McLarens, and Ford GTs often headline the Saturday afternoon “prime time” slots.
- Trucks & SUVs: Vintage Broncos, Blazers, and customized C10s are seeing record-breaking interest.
A Quick Lot-Research Checklist (Before You Fall in Love)
Before you commit to a Lot number, do your homework. Use the Barrett-Jackson website to dig into the details:
- Documentation: Does it have a Marti Report, Protect-O-Plate, or original build sheet? Provenance adds significant value.
- The Builder: If it’s a custom, who built it? Recognition from a top-tier shop can be a signal of quality.
- Your Use-Case: Are you looking for a “Trailer Queen” to show, or a reliable cruiser for weekend rallies? Ensure the car matches your lifestyle.
Onsite Game Plan at WestWorld
Once you arrive in Scottsdale, your digital watch list becomes a physical mission.
- Walk the Staging Areas: Most cars are available for viewing days before they go to the auction block. Find your shortlist vehicles and look underneath them.
- Confirm Your Top 3: By the morning of the sale, narrow your list down to your absolute favorites.
- Decide Your “Walk-Away” Number: The adrenaline of the auction floor is real. Decide your maximum bid before you enter the arena and stick to it.
Ready to Bid Instead of Just Watching?
Planning your watch list is the first step; being able to raise your bidder paddle is the second. To transition from a spectator to a buyer, you’ll need to secure your financing and bidder credentials.
The easiest way to prepare is through Woodside Credit, the long-standing partner of Barrett-Jackson. By getting pre-approved, you’ll know exactly what your “walk-away” number can be, backed by the lowest monthly payments in the industry.
Click here to read our guide on getting pre-approved and registering to bid.
Don’t just watch the action from the sidelines this January. Build your Scottsdale watch list early, then get pre-approved with Woodside Credit so you’re ready to win when your dream car hits the block.
