It's nice that there are so many antique shops :) There is a need to specialize in so many areas in antiques that it is not possible to know all of them. Usually, specific people who are experts in some specific fields are consulted about their area of expertise.
As you said, most auctions are starting to go online. This gives it a chance to appeal to larger audiences. It is very advantageous online, but I am in favor of experiencing that atmosphere face-to-face :)