Articles From The Experts

In this episode, silver specialist, Fiona Hamilton, takes a moment to appreciate the incredible sacrifices made by women in the 19th and early 20th centuries to win the right to vote. With International Women’s Day around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reflect on their bravery. The suffragettes didn’t just talk about change, they took action. From hunger strikes to protests and even airships...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon, delves into the world of insurance valuations, DIY furniture painting, and why your curtains might be worth more than you think! From the rise of "Cluttercore" to the mysterious disappearance of minimalist living, Alastair unpacks the wonderful ways we’ve transformed our homes, and ourselves, in recent years. He reveals...

Barry Humphries’ passion for art collecting is almost as well-known as his comedic persona of Dame Edna Everage. Over the years, he amassed an impressive collection of contemporary and modern artworks. His approach to art collecting was serious and deliberate, reflecting his sharp eye for unique and valuable works. Barry Humphries, who passed away in 2023, had a collection that went to auction in...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watch specialist Liz Bailey reviews the highly anticipated Christie’s sale, featuring the eclectic collection of Iris Apfel - a treasure trove of vibrant, bold, and unique pieces. From luxurious Italian armchairs that exceeded their price expectations to eye-catching designer clothing and jewellery, the event was a celebration of Apfel's iconic style. Many...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon covers the key areas involved in identifying fake Rolex watches, and the motivations of people who knowingly purchase them. Get expert tips on what to look for when examining a Rolex Submariner, including the case, crystal, bracelet, movement, dial, and bezel. Finally, Alastair emphasises the importance of considering th...

In this episode, jewellery, handbag and wristwatch specialist Helen Doyle looks at some iconic jewellery that would make perfect Valentine’s Day gifts! From famous collections like Van Cleef & Arpels' Alhambra, Cartier's Love bracelet, and Tiffany & Co.'s legendary engagement rings to the cultural significance of rubies and their captivating colour variations, if you’re looking for that pe...

In this episode, jewellery and watch specialist, Liz Bailey looks at the history of Bulgari Serpenti watches. She explores how these iconic timepieces have captivated celebrities and collectors alike for over 75 years. She looks at the different eras and models of Serpenti watches, including the original 1960s snake-shaped designs, as well as more modern iterations such as the diamond-set Serpenti...

In this episode, Asian art specialist, Ashley Crawford celebrates the Lunar New Year and The Year of the Snake by exploring the cultural significance of the snake in Chinese art. She looks at specific examples of snake imagery, including Tang Dynasty terracotta figurines and Qing Dynasty jade sculptures. If you're interested in collecting these kinds of pieces, Ashley gives some pro tips on where...

In this episode, jewellery specialist, Liz Bailey explores the growing popularity of marquise-cut diamonds. With increasing market value, fuelled by shortages and celebrity influences like Selena Gomez's engagement ring, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the marquise-cut. Liz delves into the history of the cut, its unique shape, and the key factors influencing its value: colour, clarity, cut gr...

The pearl market is experiencing a revival driven by sustainability and interest from younger generations. This is reflected in auction sales, with high prices for both natural and cultured pearls, especially larger, flawless examples with designer attribution or historical significance. In this episode, jewellery specialist, Liz Bailey looks at some of the standout auction results that illustrate...

In this episode, old master specialist, David Dallas looks at the December 2024 Old Master art sales in London which saw decent results despite fewer high-quality pieces and a smaller number of lots overall compared to previous years. While buyers seemed willing to pay strong prices for select works, particularly those by established names like Botticelli and van Dyck. The Sotheby's sale exceeded...

Get ready for a crash course in festive tippling! In this episode, old master specialist, David Dallas shares his festive wine recommendations. But this isn't just about recommending wines, it’s about finding hidden gems that won't break the bank. David shares some clever tips on navigating Christmas dinner pairings, from surprising alternatives to bubbly that might even outshine the real thing, t...

In this episode, impressionist, post war & contemporary art specialist, Ben Hanly takes a detailed look at the current state of the art market. Despite facing challenges from global inflation, political instability, and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the art market demonstrated resilience in 2023-2024. While overall sales decreased by 4%, high-value artworks continued to fetch imp...

In this episode, silver specialist, Fiona Hamilton looks at the history and cultural significance of the quaich, a traditional Scottish two-lugged bowl. She explores how the quaich evolved from simple wooden forms to elaborate silver pieces, often engraved with intricate designs. Today, the quaich remains a cherished symbol of Scotland's heritage, representing hospitality, trust, and the enduring...

In this special episode, modern & contemporary art specialist, Jonathan Horwich pays tribute Frank Auerbach who passed away earlier this month. One of Britain's most important painters, he left behind a legacy of intensely personal and raw works. Shaped by his experience as a Jewish refugee during World War II, Auerbach poured his emotional depth and complexity into portraits and cityscapes. W...

In this episode, jewellery, handbag & wristwatch specialist Helen Doyle unveils a treasure trove of information in her essential guide to buying designer handbags. A must listen for anyone interested in acquiring or investing in luxury handbags, Helen delves deep into the intricacies of authenticating high-end bags from renowned brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. She goes beyond simple visu...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the history and enduring appeal of Cartier’s Tortue wristwatch, originally designed by Louis Cartier in 1912 and named for its tortoise-shell-shaped case. The Tortue gained a unique status, evolving from a simple watch into Cartier’s first chronograph in 1928. The Tortue has retained its value over the years, with new...

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall explores The Boodles National Gallery Collection, a special collection of jewellery created by Boodles to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the National Gallery. This collection draws inspiration from the artistic themes and techniques of famous paintings held in the gallery, translating them into exquisite jewellery pieces. The collection is...

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...

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 unt...

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...

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...

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 seve...

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 lase...

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...