Articles From The Experts

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell looks at a fascinating shift happening in the world of antique auctions. We're seeing the rise of the interior designer-led sale, where names like Robert Kime are drawing extraordinary attention and driving up prices. Discover how the comfort of association with renowned designers is influencing buyers and creating a new kind of desirability. Stephanie explores the "Kime effect" and how provenance can dramatically impact value. Plus, hear about other influential figures whose connection to an antique can make all the difference. Listen now to hear about the power of design history!

In this episode, our specialists Liz Bailey and Helen Doyle give their insight into where to spend your money for the best investment this festive season. Worried about your luxury Christmas gifts losing value the moment they're unwrapped? Our experts reveal how to choose items that not only bring joy now but could actually gain value over time! From dazzling diamonds and exquisite emeralds, to designer handbags and valuable antiques, we’re uncovering the treasures that will future-proof your happiness and protect your investments. Discover the secrets to selecting pieces that embody craftsmanship and enduring appeal – and learn how to ensure your prized possessions are truly protected. Listen now to hear their top tips for a luxurious and wise festive season!

In this episode, written by jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall we look at a shocking crime that's left a community reeling – the theft of a priceless collection of Indian bridal jewellery. We explore why these unique and culturally significant pieces are such a target for thieves, and what makes them so valuable, both financially and sentimentally. Discover the intricate details of these traditional wedding suites, from the delicate necklaces to the ornate nose rings, and learn why their recovery is so challenging. Listen now to find out what the estimated value of the stolen jewels is and why their true worth is simply "priceless."

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes explores The Kythira Archaeological Museum which holds a wealth of history, spanning millennia. From ancient ceramics to a remarkable collection of Greek and Roman coins, the museum's holdings reveal a rich artistic heritage. One fascinating highlight is a Hellenistic sculpture of Hygieia, the goddess of health. Listen now to discover how a Greek fashion tradition travelled thousands of miles, influencing art and culture across continents, from Greece to India and eventually China.

In this episode, watch specialist & senior valuer Alastair Meiklejon looks at the fascinating shifts happening in the high-net-worth watch market. Forget the old fears of falling prices – we're seeing a reset, a move away from hype and towards genuine value and artistry. Discover how collectors are becoming wiser, more adventurous, and demanding more than just inflated prices. What's driving this change, and what does it mean for the future of luxury timepieces? Listen now to find out!

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the fascinating world of Breguet, a name synonymous with horological history and innovation. Liz looks into the brand's 250th-anniversary celebrations, highlighting incredibly rare and valuable timepieces - Discover how Abraham-Louis Breguet revolutionised watchmaking, from the tourbillon to the Breguet balance spring, and hear about the unique stories and craftsmanship behind these stunning creations. Liz looks at some modern-day Breguet limited-edition releases and reimagined classics, all beautifully brought to life. Listen now to learn more about these exquisite timepieces and the legacy of a true horological legend!

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the remarkable story of Leonard Lauder, a name you might not recognise, but whose art collection recently went through sale at Sotheby’s and made headlines around the globe. Discover how a family business, Estée Lauder, fuelled a passion for art that culminated in this extraordinary sale. Shattering previous records and becoming the most expensive Modern artwork ever auctioned, what masterpiece commanded such a staggering price? Listen now to find out!

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a truly remarkable story – one of a Patek Philippe wristwatch so rare, it sparked a bidding war and ignited a global debate amongst collectors. Liz looks at the fascinating history of the ref. 1518, a watch so sought-after that it fetched record-breaking prices at auction, exceeding CHF 14 million! But this isn’t just about the money; it's about the controversies surrounding its details and the expertise needed to understand its unique place in horological history. What secrets does this legendary timepiece hold, and why did it become the subject of such passionate discussion? Listen now to find out!

In this episode, written by silver & whiskey specialist Colin Fraser, we take another look at the Whiskey market… and things have been… interesting. We explore fluctuating prices, new releases, and a dramatic shift in how whisky is bought and sold. Has the market corrected itself, or are we seeing something more significant at play? Join us as we explore the current climate, what it means for collectors, and what the future might hold. Is it a chance to grab a bargain, or should you be wary? Listen now to find out!