Articles From The Experts

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,...

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the remarkable story of Leonard Lauder, a name you might not recognise, but whose art collection recently went through sale at Sotheby’s and made headlines around the globe. Discover how a family business, Estée Lauder, fuelled a passion for art that culminated in this extraordinary sale. Shattering previous records and becomin...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a truly remarkable story – one of a Patek Philippe wristwatch so rare, it sparked a bidding war and ignited a global debate amongst collectors. Liz looks at the fascinating history of the ref. 1518, a watch so sought-after that it fetched record-breaking prices at auction, exceeding CHF 14 million! But this isn’t just...

In this episode, written by silver & whiskey specialist Colin Fraser, we take another look at the Whiskey market… and things have been… interesting. We explore fluctuating prices, new releases, and a dramatic shift in how whisky is bought and sold. Has the market corrected itself, or are we seeing something more significant at play? Join us as we explore the current climate, what it means for...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a remarkable discovery that’s captured the nation’s attention: the Tudor Heart. Unearthed by a metal detectorist in a Warwickshire field, this exquisite, 16th-century jewel is believed to have been a personal gift from Henry VIII to his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Hear the story behind this incredible find and lea...

In this episode, our specialists recommend some must-see exhibitions, including a fascinating look into the mind of an innovative film director, a retrospective of a significant artist’s work, and a celebration of a vibrant design movement. Discover rarely seen masterpieces and explore captivating narratives through art, jewellery, and material culture. We also touch on a national campaign to acqu...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the key trends and notable Asian art pieces showcased at this year's Frieze Masters and Frieze London fairs. She explores the evolving landscape of the Asian art market, examining the influences of post-pandemic shifts, burgeoning interest in non-Western art forms, and the surprising impact of artificial intelligence. Ashley highlights st...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectibles specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the fascinating world of horror movie memorabilia. Discover how a seemingly ordinary movie poster can be worth tens of thousands of pounds and the stories behind their incredible value. Stephanie explores the artistry of actors like Lon Chaney and the surprising costs associated with insuring these prized posse...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the life and art of Gwen John, a fascinating and often overlooked figure in early 20th-century art. Hear her story of intense relationships, artistic exploration, and a quiet rebellion against the spotlight. She moved in the same circles as Picasso and Matisse, yet forged her own unique path, creating a body of work that is only now rece...