How can someone train their eye to spot antiques at garage sales or elsewhere? This question explains what a person needs to do in order to spot valuable antiques. Start by studying, advises Claudia Reese...
Start by studying, advises Claudia Reese who has been studying, selling, and buying antiques for 20 years. "There are thousands of new and out of print books on all types of antiques," explains Reese, who is owner of 2nd Time Around Antique Mall in Twin Falls, Idaho. "Visit your local bookstore or library and read books and magazines on what interests you. Then visit local antique stores and malls as well as those you come across if you travel," she says. "Study what they offer for sale and ask questions."
Another way to learn is by visiting historic homes and museums and looking at the type of item you want to collect. The more you see, the more you will recognize common pieces. Most items were mass produced and aren't really rare. Both staff members and volunteers who give frequent tours are great sources of information.
Subscribe and read newspapers about antiques, several of which are weekly. They provide a wealth of information including details about final sale prices at recent auctions and articles about a variety of antiques. Plus their ad section keeps collectors up to date on shows and auctions in their area. Throughout America there are hundreds of antique shows and auctions every weekend, and that number grows during spring and fall months.
A great way to continue your education is to join a collector's club. There are over 600 clubs in the United States for collectors of everything from toasters to flow blue dishes to fishing lures. For nominal annual dues you can learn a great deal from the club's newsletter or website and socialize with like-minded collectors at an annual convention or regional meetings. Many antiques publications list upcoming collector's club events along with contact information. For more information, the Association of Collecting Clubs and the National Association of Collectors have detailed lists of clubs online.
There is no quick substitute for studying and personal observation. For example, the tiniest chip or most expert repair greatly affects the value of china dishes. Patriotic designs such as flags and eagles are usually more valuable than a floral pattern. Printed designs and patterns usually sell for less that dishes with hand painted designs and borders; learn to recognize these delicate brush strokes. Decorative pieces such as figurines and vases are usually worth more than utilitarian pieces such as cups and saucers.
Consider attending an auction where many pieces of the type of china you are interested in will be offered for sale. During the preview period before the sale, learn how to examine items. Run your fingers all over the piece to see if there is a change in the surface that could indicate a crack or a chip. Look closely for signs of repair such as inconsistency in color. Look for a mark on the bottom of the piece.
When the items are placed up for auction, pay attention to what patterns, colors, and shapes of pieces sell for the highest prices because those are the most valuable. Make some notes about the final sale prices if you wish.
Education and personal observation are the keys to becoming a knowledgeable buyer who snaps up bargains at garage sales and flea markets.
