Articles From The Experts

In this episode, jewellery specialist Liz Bailey looks at the fascinating stories behind pocket watches recovered from the Titanic, and what their sales at auction can tell us about the value of historical artifacts. Hear about pieces owned by some of the wealthiest passengers and the records they’ve broken – including one recently sold for £1.78 million. Listen now to discover how these timepieces offer a glimpse into the lives lost and the enduring legacy of the tragedy, and what the future might hold for these incredibly rare items.

In this episode, silver specialist Fiona Hamilton looks at the aftermath of the pivotal Battle of Culloden and the remarkable artifacts it left behind. Discover the stories of commemorative items commissioned in the centuries following the battle, and the wealth of objects left behind by clan chiefs. Hear about the magnificent silver travelling canteen, crafted by Ebenezer Oliphant in 1740, complete with a beaker, marrow spoon, corkscrew and quaich, held in the National Museum of Scotland. Fiona also looks at other treasures like majestic backswords, silver-mounted targes and even a silver buckle with a connection to this turning point in Scottish history.

In this episode, Senior Valuer & Watch Specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at why accurately insuring your possessions is about much more than just knowing their price tag. Insurers insure risk, not items, and a detailed schedule is key to a fair settlement. He explains how specialist valuations protect insurers, brokers, and most importantly, clients from unexpected complications. Listen now to discover how valuations bring clarity, and ensure your policy truly reflects what you own.

With a range of exciting exhibitions and displays opening this spring, in this episode, Liz Bailey shares some of the Doerr Dallas specialist’s recommendations. From previously unseen jewellery collections, to stunning Ancient Egyptian artefacts and iconic portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Marilyn Monroe. Listen now to discover an inspiring calendar of artwork, sculpture, and ceramics events.

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at the brand behind modern automatic movements – Eterna. From humble beginnings creating watch movements in 1856 with Dr Joseph Girard and Urs Schild, to producing complete timepieces and becoming one of twelve companies tasked with producing watches for the British Army during WWII, Liz explores the history and significance of this charming brand, and its value in today’s market.

In this episode, senior valuer & collectibles specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the record-breaking auction of the Jim Irsay Collection, a multi-day extravaganza featuring pop culture icons assembled by the billionaire CEO of the Indianapolis Colts. Stephanie explores how prices for memorabilia and vintage guitars are evolving, with highlights including rare guitars, literature, and movie props that achieved astonishing results – with almost 30 world records broken and a total sale value of $94.5 million!

In this episode, senior valuer & collectibles specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the life and work of Elsa Schiaparelli, a designer who blurred the lines between fashion and art. Discover the stories behind her most iconic creations – from surrealist-inspired perfume bottles to collaborations with Salvador Dalí. Hear about recent auction successes, with pieces selling for thousands of pounds, and learn why these rare and collectible items continue to captivate enthusiasts today.

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at Sotheby’s recent auction of masterpieces from the private collection of billionaire investor Joe Lewis. The sale featured works from the “School of London” and garnered intense market interest, achieving a rare “white-glove” result – meaning every single lot was sold. Jonathan reflects on Lewis’s discerning eye for quality and his decades-long pursuit of only the best in modern and contemporary art, recalling their early interactions at Christie's and Lewis’s focus on pre-eminent works by artists like Matisse and Picasso. Listen now to hear more about this remarkable collection and the extraordinary success of the auction.

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at watch paperwork – what it is, why it matters, and how it’s evolved over time. From the early days of folded paper certificates to today’s high-tech digital passports and RFID chips, Liz looks at how brands like Rolex, Breitling, and Omega keep track of their watches. Discover what a ‘full set’ really means and how to identify key features that can help with valuation. Listen now to learn more about this crucial aspect of watch collecting and why when it comes to insurance valuation it really matters!