IN WITH THE OLD
But setting a value on objects is tricky
The art of investing in antiques
POTENTIAL investors should be aware that there is a crucial difference between antiques and collectables. That is according to Clyde Terry, an antique dealer and organiser of the National Antiques and Decorative Arts Faire.
An antique is typically more than 100 years old, whereas collectables are “younger” items that have become desirable for collectors.
Top-of-the-range antiques, such as a painting by an old master or a rare Louis XIV chair, for example, are guaranteed to provide a good return. Collectors who plump for more recent collecting disciplines, such as practical items that can be displayed in the home, can still benefit from
Silverware remains one of the most popular disciplines
escalating resale values.
Such items may include armoires, military chests, dining room tables and chairs, chiffoniers and decorative items. Terry said these ranged in price from R5 000 to R95 000 apiece.
Milestones, events and even movie releases can influence the value of antiques, which has seen Boer War memorabilia prices climb quickly and become popular.
“Collecting silverware remains one of the most popular disciplines, and the trend worldwide is away from elaborate bulky pieces to smaller pieces that, by their very nature, make them easy to store, show and maintain,” said Terry.
“Some of the more popular collecting disciplines include collecting things like vinaigrette holders, caddy spoons, babies’ rattles, nutmeg graters, pin cushions, Irish silver and novelty silver. With prices ranging from R2 000 to more than R100 000, the role of a good dealer is to work with collectors to build a valuable and cherished collection.”
Other collecting disciplines he lists as highly desirable and offering a good investment include books, maps, coins, stamps and military memorabilia. Anything related to specific, well-known historical events will become more sought-after over time — whether through a personal passion of the next buyer or the canny decision of a collector.
Terry’s advice is that setting a value on antiques and collectables can be tricky, because you will only get as much as a buyer is willing to pay. But if you take care of your investment and hold it for the medium to long term, you should see the value of your items appreciate.
Get to know the various dealers who operate in the fields in which you would like to start collecting — it may pay off if you build a good enough relationship to have them scour the market for what you want.
“Once you’ve purchased an item, keep a record of where and when you bought it and any other information you might have on the item. Get a written certification of the piece’s value and origin and keep a record of all your transactions. That, together with keeping the piece or pieces in optimum condition and insured, will protect your investment,” Terry said.
“As with all investments, putting all your eggs in one basket is never a recommendation, and with art and antiques the same applies. Most experts recommend putting around 10% to 15% of the value of your investment portfolio into art and antiques. But this 10% or 15% will undoubtedly give you the most pleasure.”
BRENDAN PEACOCK
THE National Antiques and Decorative Arts Faire takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg this weekend and there are a wide variety of items for sale to investors who like to touch the things that are increasing their wealth.
For the first time, the niche area of antique tools and tool restoration will be represented by a dealer, along with the usual decorative and fine-art pieces, from silverware, kitchen items and furs to period lighting.
This year’s big-ticket investment possibilities include a rare Cape stinkwood bergère chair, valued at R35 000; a 1760 Amsterdam