Articles From The Experts

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the allure and sometimes questionable value of limited-edition timepieces, exploring why collectors are drawn to these exclusive pieces. Examples such as the pink Tudor Chronograph and the iconic Rolex Kermit Submariner illustrate how market trends, celebrity influence, and even a touch of nostalgia can drive up the value of limited-edition watches. But are the exorbitant prices, bragging rights and exclusivity all just hype or a sound investment?

In this episode, Old Masters specialist David Dallas delves into the captivating life and legacy of Elisabetta Sirani, the renowned Italian Baroque painter who achieved extraordinary success in her tragically short lifetime. Discover how her father's connection to the esteemed Guido Reni shaped her artistic journey, leading her to become a celebrated figure in Bologna and beyond. Following her untimely death hear about the elaborate funeral that showcased her immense talent and influence within the art world.

In this episode, silver & jewellery specialist Jenny Knott looks at the current silver market. While seemingly quiet, it is experiencing a resurgence due to rising bullion prices and increased interest in unique and antique pieces. Traditional uses for silver may be declining, but its industrial applications and growing popularity as an investment are driving up demand. This has led to higher prices for both common and rare silver items, making it a potentially lucrative market for collectors and investors.

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell looks at some of the highlight lots from Sotheby's inaugural "Popular Culture" sale. This online auction saw everything from vintage Beatles memorabilia to a CyberMaster helmet straight out of Doctor Who!Buyers scrambled for the chance to own a piece of their favourite fictional worlds, and some real-life musical legends. The band Queen's presence was felt throughout the auction. A rare blue vinyl pressing of "Bohemian Rhapsody" fetched an incredible sum. And if you thought that was impressive, a leather jacket worn by Freddie Mercury sold for a jaw-dropping amount. But it wasn't just about music – a complete Gladiator II costume from the upcoming movie gave collectors a chance to acquire a piece from a future classic!

A recent discovery by one of our experienced valuers, Alastair Meiklejon during a walk-through valuation, led to an exceptional financial opportunity for our client, highlighting the crucial importance of the need for everyone to have a valuation and greater understanding of their assets.The item, part of an inherited collection, had never been insured and was presented to Alastair alongside several other pieces during the assessment. The owner, unaware of its true value, had initially dismissed it as insignificant.However, due to Alastair’s sharp attention to detail, this valuable asset was uncovered, turning what could have been an overlooked piece into an exciting opportunity, weeks of discovery and a big decision for our client.In this episode listen to Alastair’s account of this remarkable find.

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Baily looks at the largest gem-quality diamonds ever discovered. Recently unearthed, the Lucara diamond weighs an impressive 2,492 carats, but can’t match the 3,106 carat Cullinan diamond from 1905, still the world’s largest. However, advances in technology since the Cullinan’s time means CAD mapping of possible diamond cuts, and precision laser cutting that removes any chance of human error, maximise the yield from a crystal. Speculations in the Financial Times have reported that the stone could be worth upwards of $40 million in today’s market. Who will be the buyer of the stone? And what record breaking and yield maximising configuration of faceted diamonds will be revealed?

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Baily discusses the rising value of shipwrecked artifacts and jewellery. From pieces from the General Abbatucci cargo ship that sank in 1869, and a Waltham pocket watch worn by Titanic passenger John Jacob Astor, the sale prices for these items have increased significantly over time, with some selling for hundreds of thousands or even millions of pounds at auction.

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell shines a spotlight on renowned Kenyan-British ceramicist, Dame Magdalene Odundo. With her current exhibition at Houghton Hall, Norfolk coming to an end this month, Stephanie looks at her work, which often features narrative and figurative elements, and how she has used ceramics to explore themes such as slavery, protest, and human condition.