Articles From The Experts

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 pound...

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...

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 i...

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 l...

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 – bo...

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. Hosted on Acast...

In this episode, silver specialist Jenny Knott looks at distinguishing silver from silver plate, and why knowing the difference is more important – and financially impactful – than ever before. Jenny discusses hallmarks, what they signify – like the Lion Passant for sterling silver – how to decode them and how easily appearances can be deceiving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inf...

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the recent shifts in the art market, charting its ups and downs and offering a glimpse into what the future holds. Discover how art fairs are adapting, who's buying art now, and the impact of digital transformation. Plus, hear Jonathan’s predictions for 2026 – is a new era of growth on the horizon? Listen now to find out! Hoste...

In this episode, jewellery specialist Liz Bailey looks at the jewellery worn at previews, interviews and press engagements in the run-up to the release of the film Wuthering Heights. From antique pieces with royal connections – including a stunning Cartier tiara loaned by Sotheby's and not seen in public for 70 years – to modern commissions made for the stars themselves, hear the stories behind th...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the enduring significance of the horse in Chinese art and culture. From ancient burial practices where horses symbolised status and power, to the popularisation of these figures across dynasties like the Han and Tang, hear how horses have consistently appeared in visual media – and continue to be highly sought after by collectors today. L...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the recent February Old Master auctions in New York, where masterpieces led the way to impressive sales. Discover how paintings from the Lester Weindling Collection performed and hear about standout pieces like works by Canaletto, Artemisia Gentileschi, Fragonard, and Teniers, which achieved significant prices and even world records, con...

In this episode, jewellery, handbag and watch specialist Helen Doyle looks at some truly exceptional gifts perfect for Valentine's Day. From the exquisite, diamond-focused creations of Graff to the iconic status and value retention of Hermès handbags like the Birkin and Kelly, Helen explores what makes these items truly special. She also looks on the latest offerings from Rolex, including a new sp...

In this episode, the Doerr Dallas specialists looks at market trends for 2026 and how these may affect current valuations. From record-breaking gold prices and evolving diamond values to the buoyant rare book market and the contrasting fortunes of antique furniture – discover where the opportunities and risks lie in the collecting world. We’ll explore how provenance, condition, and a new generatio...

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the captivating life and work of Quentin Blake, a beloved British illustrator and children's author. Jonathan shares his lifelong fascination with Blake’s work and the subtle details that reveal the artistry behind the images. Listen now to hear his unique perspective on a truly iconic figure! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri...

In this episode, senior valuer Alastair Meiklejon looks at a "stubbornly brown" piece of Victorian furniture that recently defied expectations to command a staggering price when it crossed the rostrum at Christie’s in London. While most desks live quiet lives supporting laptops and unread paperwork, this desk served as the "machinery" behind the creation of The Lord of the Rings. Alastair discusse...

In this episode, jewellery specialist Liz Bailey looks at what’s trending in the world of jewellery for 2026. She investigates the predictions straight from the runway, exploring how tastes are changing and what pieces will be most valuable in the years to come. Forget stacking – there’s a new focus on bold, sculptural pieces. Liz has the insider information on metals, rings, and even how semi-pre...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the recent London Old Master sales, revealing a mixed bag of successes and surprises. David examines the highlights from Sotheby's and Christie's and discover which artists were in high demand and which pieces failed to find buyers. The overall sales figures were the highest in seven years, but the distribution of wealth wasn’t quite eve...

In this episode, senior valuer & watch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the extraordinary rise in value of the work of François-Xavier Lalanne. Once considered charmingly eccentric, his animal sculptures are now selling for staggering sums. But what's driving this incredible phenomenon? From the artist’s unique history to the dynamics of the art market itself, listen now to discover how...

In this special Christmas episode, we asked the Doerr Dallas team what they’d like to see under the tree on Christmas morning if money was no object! From the halls of the Louvre to the prehistoric era, our specialists reveal their most extravagant holiday wishes. We dive into a world where high fashion meets ancient history, featuring everything from rare, multimillion-dollar dinosaur skeletons t...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell looks at a fascinating shift happening in the world of antique auctions. We're seeing the rise of the interior designer-led sale, where names like Robert Kime are drawing extraordinary attention and driving up prices. Discover how the comfort of association with renowned designers is influencing buyers and creating a new...

In this episode, our specialists Liz Bailey and Helen Doyle give their insight into where to spend your money for the best investment this festive season. Worried about your luxury Christmas gifts losing value the moment they're unwrapped? Our experts reveal how to choose items that not only bring joy now but could actually gain value over time! From dazzling diamonds and exquisite emeralds, to de...

In this episode, written by jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall we look at a shocking crime that's left a community reeling – the theft of a priceless collection of Indian bridal jewellery. We explore why these unique and culturally significant pieces are such a target for thieves, and what makes them so valuable, both financially and sentimentally. Discover the intricate details of these traditi...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes explores The Kythira Archaeological Museum which holds a wealth of history, spanning millennia. From ancient ceramics to a remarkable collection of Greek and Roman coins, the museum's holdings reveal a rich artistic heritage. One fascinating highlight is a Hellenistic sculpture of Hygieia, the goddess of health. Listen now to discover how a Greek...

In this episode, watch specialist & senior valuer Alastair Meiklejon looks at the fascinating shifts happening in the high-net-worth watch market. Forget the old fears of falling prices – we're seeing a reset, a move away from hype and towards genuine value and artistry. Discover how collectors are becoming wiser, more adventurous, and demanding more than just inflated prices. What's driving t...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the fascinating world of Breguet, a name synonymous with horological history and innovation. Liz looks into the brand's 250th-anniversary celebrations, highlighting incredibly rare and valuable timepieces - Discover how Abraham-Louis Breguet revolutionised watchmaking, from the tourbillon to the Breguet balance spring,...