What’s new in antiques
As 2018 is starting off with great momentum, let’s take some time to see what collection categories are gaining in speed in the antique world and what seems to be stuck. What’s new in antiques is such a play on words but in fact, collecting antiques is always changing. There is always something “new” that is hot to collect. When you visit your local antique shop, go with an idea of what is desirable right now.
Listed below are some categories that are soaring in the collecting world.
Rare and first edition books
Book collecting is nothing new, however, 2017 brought several key sales of important works. Rare and classic first editions continue to soar in demand. Look for classic first-edition books with broad appeal. Patience is a virtue when it comes to rare book collecting.
Firearms and antique weaponry
If you are a hardcore history buff or if you just like weapons, this category has something for everyone. From classic firearms manufactured during the founding of our country to authentic medieval swords, this category of collecting shows no signs of slowing down. They make great display pieces and have a lot of collector demand.
Vintage advertising
This has always been a popular category and is showing no sign of slowing. Demand for vintage soda pop advertising from yesterday, along with strong demand for gas and oil-related collectibles has made this category the one to watch in 2018. Some of the lesser-known vintage advertising belongs to less popular soda manufacturers can be had at a fraction of the cost of related Coca-Cola and Pepsi advertising. But they still make great collectibles and will display beautifully.
Vintage coin-operated devices
Pinball machines and early slot machines are always quite collectible. The price of such collectibles has doubled in value compared to what it was just five years ago. They are becoming less easy to find and those that have them are not parting with them. Pinball machine collecting is not a market for the inexperienced, however. Machines are bulky and hard to move. Knowledge and research are your friends here.
With the good, there is always bad. Next week we will focus on collecting items that seem to be losing momentum right now. Remember this though, just because something isn’t in demand on the collecting market doesn’t mean you shouldn’t collect it. If you have a passion for something, seek it out. Love it, cherish it and be proud to own a piece of the past. Nothing is a bad investment if you love it.
At Antique Allure in Southampton, we want you to come in and look around. Maybe you are looking for something specific or maybe you are looking to start collecting something specific. Whatever your desires are, let us help you find them. Enjoy the world of antiques and let us help you have some fun!
