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Best Bets For Future Value Gains   Not Just Mid-Century Furniture New York - The antique and vintage industry is currently experiencing what many believe to be a modern renaissance, captivating decorative arts enthusiasts of all stripes and colours. Whether you've been curating a collection of early American rustic furniture for decades or are just beginning to appreciate the timeless elegance of Mid-Century motifs and designs, there's an undeniable surge of energy pulsating through the industry. With the advent of platforms like Mercari and Chairish, and the meteoric rise of freshly prepared events like the Rooftop-Night-Market at Vintage Land, or the booming popularity of Round Top Antiques Fair, the landscape for antique and vintage shopping is undergoing a dynamic transformation as a new generation of buyers seem to have finally embraced the allure of 'decorative' collecting. Terri Alrod, a notable figure in the New York design scene with over four decades of experience in the field, says she's observed a seismic shift in how people are integrating antique and vintage themes into their living and collecting spaces today, while also noting that some items and styles seem to be surging in popularity over others. We reached out to Alrod and six other prominent designers and industry-insiders from various regions to uncover the antique and vintage items that savvy investors might want to consider acquiring now, in order to secure some potentially significant resale value down the road.  1950s Cat Eye Sunglasses 1. 1950s Sunglasses: "It wasn't just the furniture from this era that was so cool," says Jemma Kirkland from Cat's Eye Vintage, "but all the accessories that came with it." Kirkland says that while she's always had a fondness for early eyewear, it was the 1950s styles that really resonated with her, and her customers. "It was the Golden Age of sunglasses," she says, "and the creations were simply supreme." Early cat eye designs, green-lensed high rim Ray-Bans, and artistic examples from Charles Goldsmith are now all commanding premium prices according to Kirkland, who says that some of her best 'finds' ever have been in drawers of vintage furniture she bought at garage sales. "That's the beauty of finding small collectibles," she says, "sometimes they're just hidden in plain sight."  Vintage 1970s Cartier Watch 2. Vintage Watches: Timepieces from renowned watchmakers have become coveted heirlooms and investments. Vintage Rolex and Omega watches, in particular, have seen a recent surge in value, reveals Boston based watch expert David Mallory. "The craftsmanship and prestige associated with these brands have made them highly desirable among collectors," he says. Add to that the celebrity endorsement from megastars like Tyler The Creator, and Pharrell Williams flaunting their own vintage examples, and it has made acquiring these items almost aspirational. Mallory says that these media star's 'wrist choices' are influencing a broader audience, with a subsequent ripple effect that is creating a surge in prices.  1960s Tiled Coffee Table 3. Tiled Coffee Tables: Yes, straight from the 1960s, tiled coffee tables are making a comeback, at least according to Tom Schoefield and his vintage collective in Miami. Schoefield says their vibrant patterns and durable construction make them both functional and eye-catching, especially to a younger generation that's seeking authenticity and sustainability in their purchases. "These vintage tables have gained a lot of favour with my customers," says, Schoefield, "which I think has a lot to do with straddling that line between modern and something that's more traditional." Schoefield notes that up until a year or so ago he could still buy plenty of these pieces for literally peanuts at most thrift stores, but "no more," he says, "prices are rising quickly."  Georgian Kneehole Bureau 4. Georgian & Regency Furniture: "I know, we've heard it all before, but this time there are some strong auction results to back up the claim," says Donna Brasher, an auction consultant who's been mining online sales data through her Austin, Texas company for almost two decades. "I've watched over the years as most 19th century furniture languished near the bottom of our sales charts, but that's begun to change in the last little while," she says, "people are once again buying these classic pieces and the prices are reflecting that move upward." Brasher also acknowledged that based on her recently amalgamated sales data and purchase results, she thinks there's probably a good chance that the rising prices on Georgian and Regency furniture will continue to escalate in the near-term as demand is beginning to show signs of outstripping supply.  1980s Three-Seater Sofa 5. 1980s Furniture & Collectibles: Not to be outdone by the surge in interest for classical antiques, Mary-Beth Thompson, who's kitsch and collectibles shop in San Francisco has been a beacon over the years for hardcore collectors of vintage furniture, says that the 80s have definitely become 'a thing' with millennial buyers and collectors. "It's when most of them were born," she says, "so in many ways it's like a call back to home." Boxy shaped white leather and patterned sofas, early console video games, and what many refer to as the 'Golden Age' of toys (think Dungeon & Dragon sets), have all skyrocketed in price, says Thompson. "I used to only carry the odd piece of furniture from the 1980s, but brisk sales of both collectibles and furniture from this era have made it hard to keep many of these items in stock recently."  Baroque Side Table 6. Baroque Furniture & Décor: As trends in interior design cycle through history, many antique dealers say that the Baroque style is definitely making a comeback, as it tends to blend seamlessly with many contemporary aesthetics. Toronto based designer Philip Mitchell echoed that sentiment when he remarked that he has always loved the juxtaposition between new and old, especially as it relates to the Baroque style. “Hanging a bold abstract painting over a marble-topped Baroque console creates a sharp focal point and is a great way to add character and interest to any space," he says. However, Mitchell also cautioned that if collectors and buyers want to get in on the rising trend, then now is probably going to be the best time if you want to snap up some great pieces at affordable prices.  Wicker Furniture From The 1990s 7. 1990s Wicker Patio Furniture: Mariel Brazier, a long-term dealer who's been selling out of her North Carolina antique and vintage garden shop for almost forty years, says she couldn't quite believe the 'wicker resurgence' herself, until customers started asking for it on-the-reg. Brazier, who's family run business encompasses over twenty-thousand square feet, says that wicker garden sets from the 90s have definitely returned to favour, and are back in a big way with many of her clients. "The stuff made in the early 90s was real," says Brazier, "not like the faux pieces made of plastic that you see today." Brazier said she started getting requests last year from people who remembered the quality of pieces made during that era, as well as from those wanting to redecorate their covered outdoor spaces using authentic wicker examples. Today, Brazier says most items go to wait-listed clients before they even have a chance to hit the showroom floor. "They're all spoken for," she says, "and if they're not, they're usually sold within a few days." For those hoping to cash-in on these rising trends, there is of course no guarantee as to life-expectancy. However, with a little market research, a bit of legwork, and some good timing, these top picks might just provide the avid collector and savvy dealer with the opportunity to make an extra buck-or-two, and possibly even more! - AIA Staff Writers  NOTE: For readers seeking more information about the Asheford Institute Of Antiques distance-learning program on professional-level appraising, the study of antiques, collectibles, vintage and mid-century modern items, please click here to visit the school's Home Page.
Should you have additional questions about the Asheford program, you can also write to the school at: [email protected] or call the Registrar's Office toll-free at: 1-877-444-4508. Experts Reveal Olympic Items Of Value  1992 Olympic Dream Team New York - With the close of one of the most memorable and groundbreaking Olympic games ever, due in large part to its stellar location and use of recycled venues, the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics manged to captivate and interest not only sports enthusiasts, but also dealers and buyers of Olympic collectibles, who noted that prices for antique and vintage items related to the event had been surging in value recently. Experts within the industry attributed the trend to a combination of nostalgia, unique historical significance, and the allure of owning a piece of Olympic history. For many antique and resale dealers it was an opportunity to profit from an event that only comes about every four years while also being the hundredth-anniversary of the last Olympics to be held in Paris (1924). Dr. Lori Verderame, an antiques appraiser and host of "Ask Dr. Lori LIVE," emphasizes the emotional connection and historical value of Olympic memorabilia. “Each Olympic Games is a unique event that carries its own set of symbols, stories, and memories,” she explains. “Collecting items like torches, medals, and pins allows individuals to own a piece of that history, which only grows in value over time," she says.   Paris 2024 Olympic Soccer Pin The current market is particularly active due to the excitement surrounding the recent Paris Olympics. Collectors are eager to acquire items from past Games, especially those held in iconic locations or featuring memorable performances. According to OlympicsMarketplace.com, items from recent Games, such as the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, have shown significant value increases. Unique pieces like the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch, made from recycled aluminum, and the official medal set designed by Junichi Kawanishi are highly sought after by both collectors and sports memorabilia enthusiasts alike. Steven Gold, owner of Gold’s Sports Memorabilia, notes that the scarcity of certain items plays a crucial role in their value. “Limited edition pins, particularly those with unique designs or produced in small quantities, can fetch a high price,” he says. For example, a set of Paris 2024 Olympic Mascot Pins, inspired by impressionist art, has already become a collectible item on platforms like eBay. The profitability of investing in Olympic memorabilia is not just about recent items. Vintage pieces from earlier Games are also experiencing a price boom. America's Antique Mall highlights the importance of condition, historical relevance, and rarity when assessing the value of sports memorabilia. Items such as autographed jerseys, game-used equipment, and rare pins from earlier Olympics can command high prices, particularly if they are well-preserved and have a documented history that can be traced.  Souvenir Collection From 1984 Los Angeles Olympics David Holstein who runs an online emporium for Olympic related collectibles says that the surge in pricing was obviously affected by the Olympics in Paris this year, but says that prices for items have continued to be strong in the years leading up to this summer's events. "Almost all our Olympic related items from the previous summer Games, and the one's before that have seen double-digit growth," he says, "It's a market that really holds its own, and then gets a massive boost every four years." Holstein says pins are huge, but so are jerseys and even things like Coca-cola cans, entry tickets to big events (think Simone Biles recent win in gymnastics), programs, mascots, along with billboards and posters. For Jack Johnson, who says he's been a fan of Olympic related collectibles since the USA's first 'Dream Team' in 1992, it's all about the sport. Johnson admits that while he's collected other memorabilia associated with the Games, it's been primarily items related to Olympic basketball that have been the bread and butter for his Internet auction sales over the years. Johnson says that original items, such as action figures, commemorative coins, and framed card-sets have been skyrocketing in value over the last three decades. "I think it's probably wise to pick the most popular sports if you're wanting a hefty return on investment," he says. "Water polo may look cool, but will you be able to remember the event and players names a year or two later?" For perspective, Johnson notes that anything related to Steph Curry's stellar performance in the gold medal match-up against France will likely become "highly" collectible.  1992 Olympic Dream Team Action Figures For those looking to start or expand their collection, industry experts advise thorough research and careful purchasing. Gold recommends, “Always buy from reputable sources and verify the authenticity of the items. Fakes and reproductions can be common, especially as demand increases.” Dr. Lori adds, “Understanding the history and significance of the items you’re collecting not only enriches your knowledge but also ensures you’re making sound investments.” The allure of Olympic memorabilia can extend beyond monetary value. Collectors often find personal satisfaction in owning items that represent the pinnacle of athletic achievement and global unity. While the 2024 Paris Olympics may have come to an end, the market for these historical pieces is likely to remain robust, providing both emotional and financial rewards for collectors worldwide. - A.I.A. Staff Writers NOTE: For readers seeking more information about the Asheford Institute Of Antiques distance-learning program on professional-level appraising, the study of antiques, collectibles, vintage and mid-century modern items, please click here to visit the school's Home Page.
Should you have additional questions about the Asheford program, you can also write to the school at: [email protected] or call the Registrar's Office toll-free at: 1-877-444-4508. Old School Becomes New School Cool  American Flag Quilt New York - It's definitely not your grand parents Bicentennial dining room, but it may just contain a few of those long treasured nationally themed items. At least according to a rising group of dealers, interior designers and emerging collectors who say that Americana is experiencing a revival not seen since the mid-1970s. Many of these industry insiders claim that in recent years, there has been a noticeable trend among millennials towards embracing the early American and Bicentennial style as part of a shift away from post-war modernism and the Mid-Century motif. This surge in interest has not only revived appreciation for these historical pieces, according to experts, but has also significantly impacted their market prices.  Simple Sells - Tavern Table One of the key reasons behind this trend is millennials' growing appreciation for authenticity and craftsmanship. "Millennials are drawn to items with a story and a sense of history," says Susan Palmer, owner of Palmer Antiques. "The handmade quality and unique designs of early American antiques resonate deeply with their desire for individuality and sustainability." This generation, often characterized by their preference for experiences over possessions, finds a unique connection with antiques that have stood the test of time. "There's a tangible connection to the past that you just can't replicate with modern, mass-produced items," adds Palmer. Items such as authentic ladder-back chairs, simple tavern tables and even period correct Shaker baskets are all selling well says Palmer. The sustainability aspect also plays a crucial role. As awareness about environmental issues grows, more millennials are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. "Antiques are inherently sustainable," notes Jane Smith, a historian specializing in American decorative arts at the Heritage Preservation Society. "By purchasing and repurposing these items, millennials are making a conscious choice to support sustainable practices." This shift towards ethical consumption aligns with the values of many millennials. Instead of contributing to the demand for new, resource-intensive products, they are choosing to invest in pieces that already exist and carry a sense of history.  American Themed Cast-Iron Doorstop For Nancy Shier, who owns and operates an antique and vintage collective in downtown Nashville, that sense of repurposing, combined with a curiosity about the nation's past is part of what's driving up sales of early American and rustic pieces. Shier says when she first opened her doors almost two decades ago, millennials were only interested in vintage items, but over the years that's changed dramatically. Today, whirligigs (even reproductions), framed woven American flags, doorstops, handmade quilts, along with twig-and-stick style furniture are all in high demand says Shier, "Ten years ago, I would've discounted these items heavily," she says, "but today, they're becoming some of my best sellers." Nostalgia and a connection to heritage are also significant factors. Many millennials feel a sentimental attachment to the styles and aesthetics of earlier generations. "There's a romantic notion of returning to simpler times," explains David Thompson, an interior designer at Colonial Interiors. "These antiques evoke a sense of nostalgia and continuity that is very appealing." For some, this connection is personal, tied to memories of grandparents' homes or family heirlooms. "There's something incredibly special about owning a piece that your ancestors might have used," says Thompson. "It creates a tangible link to your own history and heritage." Bicentennial Chic, as it's sometimes called, says Thompson, can include such items as Benjamin Franklin inspired rocking chairs, butter churns and crocks turned into table lamps, to actual spinning wheels being used once again as decorative items.  1970s Ethan Allen Colonial Revival Style Dining Table and Chairs The growing demand for early American and Bicentennial style antiques has inevitably affected their market prices. "We've seen a significant increase in prices over the past few years," reports Michael Andrews, an auctioneer specialising in antique furniture at Andrews & Co. "Items that were once considered relatively affordable are now fetching near premium prices at auctions." Andrews attributes this price surge to the combination of limited supply and increasing demand. "These pieces are finite; once they're gone, they're gone. As more millennials enter the market, competition for high-quality items has intensified, driving prices up." Andrews also notes that even reproductions from companies like Ethan Allen, who released a wave of nouveau Colonial Revival designs during the 1976 Bicentennial celebrations are now also bringing high dollar values at many sales. Michael Diaz-Griffith, a New York 'Antique Winter Fair' alum, and author of 'The New Antiquarians: At Home with Young Collectors,' says that he's been anticipating a renewed interest in the Bicentennial style for a number of years. "Millenials aren't minimalists," he says. In his book, Diaz-Griffith profiles young collectors who have decorated with funky Americana pieces rather than striving to create period correct historical rooms. During his years working at the Winter Fair is when he first started noticing his own generation beginning to eschew post war moderismn in favour of very old, and very quirky Americana pieces. For many in the industry this trend appears to be showing no signs of slowing down. With millennials continuing to prioritise sustainability, authenticity, and a connection to the past, a good number of dealers believe that early American and Bicentennial style antiques will likely continue to be highly sought after for the foreseeable future. "It's more than just a passing fad," concludes Palmer. "It's a reflection of deeper values and a shift in consumer behaviour that seems to be here to stay." Colonial Interior's, David Thompson is also bullish on the trends staying power and believes that the millennial embrace of early American and Bicentennial style antiques is a natural progression from the younger 'post-modernist' years to something more mature and traditional. "It's a heritage-trend that not only enriches their living spaces with historical significance," says Thompson, "but it's also helping to revitalise the antique market, ensuring that these treasured pieces continue to be appreciated and valued by future generations." - A.I.A. Staff Writers NOTE: For readers seeking more information about the Asheford Institute Of Antiques distance-learning program on professional-level appraising, the study of antiques, collectibles, vintage and mid-century modern items, please click here to visit the school's Home Page.
Should you have additional questions about the Asheford program, you can also write to the school at: [email protected] or call the Registrar's Office toll-free at: 1-877-444-4508. |
AIA StaffWe're providing our students and reader's with the latest breaking news on events and happenings that we think might be of interest to both collectors and dealers alike. Including changes within the world of antiques, vintage, collectibles and appraising that might just have an effect on your bottom line. We're also interested in hearing from you - so if you've got a great newsworthy story, let us know, and you just might find it here! Archives
October 2024
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