Articles From The Experts

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!

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the Samurai exhibition at the British Museum, revealing how it goes beyond simply displaying armour to immerse visitors in the broader world of Samurai culture. The exhibition is praised for its curation regarding Samurai women, historically excluded from these discussions, and highlights their significant contributions to many areas of life. Ashley also looks at market values of Samurai artifacts, like weaponry and armour, and the importance of factors like condition and artist recognisability.

In this episode, senior valuer & watch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the enduring value of coins in an increasingly digital world. Despite the rise of cashless transactions, physical coins still represent a significant, and often overlooked, form of wealth. Alastair explores the importance of proper identification and insurance for coin collections, highlighting how market values – both bullion and collector’s – can fluctuate. Listen now to discover how a seemingly ordinary box of coins could hold a hidden treasure, and why the history behind a coin can be as valuable as its monetary worth.

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall looks at the heritage jewels and modern icons that graced the red carpet at this year’s BAFTAs. From a beloved collection first designed in 1965 that continues to capture hearts, to a stunning pair of Art Déco earrings with a fascinating history reaching back to 1918. Listen now to hear the stories behind the red carpet sparkle.