0:00:03 > 0:00:06Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone in 1856 to this
0:00:06 > 0:00:08extraordinary 19th century Baroque-looking building,
0:00:08 > 0:00:11having agreed that a charitable educational establishment
0:00:11 > 0:00:14should be set up in memory of the man who defeated Napoleon
0:00:14 > 0:00:16at the Battle of Waterloo.
0:00:16 > 0:00:17The Duke of Wellington.
0:00:17 > 0:00:21Welcome to Flog It! from the magnificent Wellington College.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46Still going strong today,
0:00:46 > 0:00:49Wellington College aims to provide a transformative experience
0:00:49 > 0:00:53for all of its pupils, maximising their potential to the full.
0:00:53 > 0:00:55Let's hope we can transform a few people
0:00:55 > 0:00:58in this queue today off to the auction room. Who will it be?
0:00:58 > 0:01:00Well, stayed tuned and you'll find out.
0:01:02 > 0:01:07Our experts are here to make sure everyone gets the valuations they need.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10He's great! Does he growl?
0:01:10 > 0:01:12The team is headed by Elizabeth Talbot,
0:01:12 > 0:01:16all-round valuer, cataloguer and auctioneer.
0:01:16 > 0:01:17Oh, he does!
0:01:20 > 0:01:22Trust me, that's the best view.
0:01:22 > 0:01:26And Flog It! favourite, former PE teacher, Philip Serrell
0:01:26 > 0:01:28up to his old tricks.
0:01:30 > 0:01:32It's worth a fiver but at a push, I could give you a tenner for it.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39There'll be more high jinx from Philip a little bit later.
0:01:39 > 0:01:41As I explore the area, I'll be delighting you with some
0:01:41 > 0:01:44unusual artefacts, proving that antiques can be
0:01:44 > 0:01:47displayed in a variety of novel ways.
0:01:47 > 0:01:52- It's a timeless piece as well. - Absolutely. Good gag!
0:01:52 > 0:01:56But for now, we join Elizabeth at the tables
0:01:56 > 0:01:59as she weighs up the worth of Margaret's Poole Pottery.
0:01:59 > 0:02:05I recognise that you've brought a couple of pieces of Poole but I'm sure there's a story behind them.
0:02:05 > 0:02:08They were given to me about 1980
0:02:08 > 0:02:12when a girl came from France and she wanted to improve her English.
0:02:12 > 0:02:16And I had two small children at the time,
0:02:16 > 0:02:20so it was a good idea for her to look after them and improve her English.
0:02:20 > 0:02:24And then she gave them to you?
0:02:24 > 0:02:25- As a little gift.- How lovely.
0:02:25 > 0:02:27And do you like them?
0:02:27 > 0:02:30Not really. I've had them on display
0:02:30 > 0:02:35and then I remember her every time I see them,
0:02:35 > 0:02:39but they don't do anything for me. I much prefer wood carvings
0:02:39 > 0:02:43and I prefer to display a Japanese carving that I have.
0:02:43 > 0:02:47Well, I don't know how much you know about the Poole factory.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50The original factory was inherited in 1873
0:02:50 > 0:02:55and by 1921, Carter, Stabler and Adams had set up a firm
0:02:55 > 0:02:59making very versatile, usable products which went through
0:02:59 > 0:03:01several stages in its history.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04In the '20s and '30s, you would find that they made
0:03:04 > 0:03:09pastel-shaded painted objects which were quite delicate in their tone.
0:03:09 > 0:03:11By the time they got to the 1960s and 1970s,
0:03:11 > 0:03:14they produced what they called psychedelic ware,
0:03:14 > 0:03:19where they used bright, almost pop colours - Pop Art of that time -
0:03:19 > 0:03:23along with interesting shapes.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26I am more familiar with the red ground and also the blue ground.
0:03:26 > 0:03:31- The green ground, to my eye, is actually quite pleasant. I like that.- Really?
0:03:31 > 0:03:35But they use these bright colours and several of their famous
0:03:35 > 0:03:38designers and decorators were working to a theme.
0:03:38 > 0:03:41A bit like the crazy stained glass look,
0:03:41 > 0:03:46with big thick black lines and very bright, bold colours.
0:03:46 > 0:03:51And they really produced this ware between about 1966 and about 1980,
0:03:51 > 0:03:55so this was probably towards the latter end of this ware.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57Now, you have two pieces here,
0:03:57 > 0:04:01complementary, but each by a different artist.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04I don't know the name of the artist here but this one is by
0:04:04 > 0:04:07a lady called Carol Cutler. She monograms it CC
0:04:07 > 0:04:11and she's one of the most famous designers and decorators
0:04:11 > 0:04:12that they employed.
0:04:12 > 0:04:16So that has a slight precedence over this piece in terms of the name.
0:04:16 > 0:04:20For collectors, the names of the artists are very important, too.
0:04:20 > 0:04:25As you also point out, this one has suffered a little bit of damage
0:04:25 > 0:04:29with a chip on the underside of the rim. So from that point of view,
0:04:29 > 0:04:32it's slightly hampered by that in terms of its value.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35I would have said that this piece, with its damage,
0:04:35 > 0:04:37would be roundabout £20 to £30.
0:04:37 > 0:04:38Really?
0:04:38 > 0:04:41And this piece, because of the name,
0:04:41 > 0:04:45- more likely to be around the £40-£45.- Really?
0:04:45 > 0:04:48But if you're looking to sell and if you're happy at that value,
0:04:48 > 0:04:52- I'd advise you to sell them together as a lot.- Yes.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56And put a combined estimate of around £60 to £80 on the two.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58Would you like a reserve on them
0:04:58 > 0:05:01or would you like to see how the market takes them?
0:05:01 > 0:05:04I don't know. What do you suggest?
0:05:04 > 0:05:08I tell you what, how about we put £60 to £80 as a combined estimate
0:05:08 > 0:05:11but we put a £40 reserve on, because you're protecting this one.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15- Is that all right? Then you've got a bit of leeway.- Yes. That's fine.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18You've got peace of mind they're being looked after.
0:05:18 > 0:05:20Thank you for all that information.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23I didn't realise about the stained glass.
0:05:23 > 0:05:26It's just the influence that they were borrowing from
0:05:26 > 0:05:28and probably one of many.
0:05:28 > 0:05:31In the '60s and '70s, influences came from all sorts of places
0:05:31 > 0:05:35which we can't go into. But if they sell, and hopefully they will,
0:05:35 > 0:05:39will you be buying some more Japanese carvings with the proceeds?
0:05:39 > 0:05:43No, I think what I shall do is put it towards an orphanage
0:05:43 > 0:05:45we're building in Uganda.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47Who's we?
0:05:47 > 0:05:51There's some friends here who've brought some things.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54There's quite a group of us now, raising money.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56Really? That's a wonderful cause.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59- Fingers crossed we will do well for you.- I hope so.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03We'll be back to find out whether Margaret's pottery makes a splash in the saleroom in a bit.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07But first, over to Phillip Serrell as he gets to grips with a couple of candlesticks
0:06:07 > 0:06:10that Maureen's brought in to sell.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12How long have you had these, then?
0:06:12 > 0:06:1450-odd years I've known of them.
0:06:14 > 0:06:20- So shall we try and debunk the antique world?- Yes.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- So these are candlesticks, aren't they?- Yes.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26What sort of column is that?
0:06:26 > 0:06:29A bit like a Roman type...
0:06:29 > 0:06:32Yeah, but if you look at it, we've got a column there
0:06:32 > 0:06:35and then we've got one, two, three, four, five...
0:06:35 > 0:06:39It's made up of lots of little columns,
0:06:39 > 0:06:41- so it's called a cluster column. - All right.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44So it's a cluster column candlestick.
0:06:44 > 0:06:49With wheat ears as the capitals, and the capitals are the top bit.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51Is it silver or is it plate?
0:06:51 > 0:06:54I don't know. There are some markings on it.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57Let's have a look. The first thing to do...
0:06:57 > 0:07:01- If you just take that off... This is called the sconce.- Right.
0:07:01 > 0:07:04- Any difference in colour? - Yes, quite a lot.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07That's silver and that isn't. Why?
0:07:07 > 0:07:09- Coated?- No.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13Someone has cleaned all the silver off.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16Oh, right, well that would explain why I couldn't clean it.
0:07:16 > 0:07:20- Really? You've been trying to clean it?- It wouldn't come off.
0:07:20 > 0:07:23This is simply silver-plated
0:07:23 > 0:07:26and if you polish it vigorously and vigorously,
0:07:26 > 0:07:31it's a bit like cleaning your face, when you rub some skin cells off.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34All you're doing is you're taking the silver off.
0:07:34 > 0:07:39So you've got a pair of silver plated cluster column candlesticks.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43These are by... I think this company is called...
0:07:43 > 0:07:45R and B is Roberts and Bell.
0:07:45 > 0:07:49Their mark is typified by that little Aladdin's lamp, got it?
0:07:49 > 0:07:52Oh, right, yes.
0:07:52 > 0:07:57A lot of manufacturers put marks onto silver plate
0:07:57 > 0:08:00that sort of made it possibly look like hallmarks, but they're not.
0:08:00 > 0:08:05I think they're decorative things.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08I think at auction, they're going to make... I think you could put
0:08:08 > 0:08:11- a £60 to £90 estimate on them all day long.- Yeah?
0:08:11 > 0:08:16If you have a result, they might make £100, £150.
0:08:16 > 0:08:18But I think £60 to £90 as an estimate is fine.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21I think a reserve of £60 is fine.
0:08:21 > 0:08:25If you end up buying these or owning them...
0:08:25 > 0:08:29one of the questions that I get asked so many times is,
0:08:29 > 0:08:31should I get them repainted?
0:08:31 > 0:08:35You can buy a solution that's almost like a polish
0:08:35 > 0:08:38that you put on there and it leaves a fresh deposit on there.
0:08:38 > 0:08:40For me, I don't like that at all.
0:08:40 > 0:08:44I would much rather see something in its natural state, warts and all,
0:08:44 > 0:08:48rather than looking at something like it was made yesterday.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51Useful advice there, Phil. We'll return to see
0:08:51 > 0:08:54if those column candlesticks notch up a good price.
0:08:54 > 0:08:58For now, come with me as I introduce you to another set of columns
0:08:58 > 0:09:00that have caught my eye.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02I'm not quite sure what it is...
0:09:02 > 0:09:05but it's like the ruins of something.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- That's quite nice. - On a marble base.
0:09:08 > 0:09:11A little scale model of a column.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14Exactly. But there is more to this in the car. But it was so heavy.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17I've got a Christie's magazine as well that shows...
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- Can I have a look at that?- Sure.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21And there's more in the car?
0:09:21 > 0:09:24There is more in the car, but it's dismantled and very heavy.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27These architectural models
0:09:27 > 0:09:30can sometimes fetch an awful lot of money, they really can.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33It shows you the different order of the Roman capitals.
0:09:33 > 0:09:37You have a Doric, you have an Ionic and a Corinthian
0:09:37 > 0:09:41- and then you can mix it altogether and you have a composite.- Wow.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44- Yes, lovely fluted columns.- Yes.
0:09:44 > 0:09:47- So this one you've got the broken bit of?- Yes, all three columns...
0:09:47 > 0:09:49- And they'd be joined at the top?- Yes.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52It might be worth you having them restored.
0:09:52 > 0:09:54That's OK, yep.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58Because I have a feeling that something like that
0:09:58 > 0:10:01- will be worth in the region of about £2,000.- Really?!- Yes.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05- Are you valuing it now for me? - That's it, that is what I'm saying.
0:10:05 > 0:10:06- Wow.- Wow.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08It's pointless to us at the moment.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10- I'm red! I'm matching the inside of my bag.- Don't drop it!
0:10:10 > 0:10:14Go and see a professional restorer, tell them what you've got
0:10:14 > 0:10:17and let them give you a quote. This is the early 19th century.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20- Do some homework, do some research, OK?- Thank you, I will.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23Have a look at what other architectural models have sold for.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- OK. I will. - You can check online quite easily.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29I thought because it looks so old and destroyed
0:10:29 > 0:10:31that it wouldn't be worth anything.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34- It's worth a lot of money. - Ooh, wow.- Thank you very much.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38- Someone's had a surprise today. - Can I go home now? Is that it?
0:10:38 > 0:10:40Thank you so much. Very good news.
0:10:40 > 0:10:44- That's all right. I love things like that, I really do.- Wonderful.
0:10:44 > 0:10:48But when it comes to eye-catching antiques, then you have to check out
0:10:48 > 0:10:51the item that Elizabeth has set her sights on.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54You've brought this wonderful leather case and inside
0:10:54 > 0:10:56this leather case is what?
0:10:56 > 0:11:01Some binoculars, or field glasses I think they were known as in those days.
0:11:01 > 0:11:03Oh, my goodness, look at these. How fantastic.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06Now, what is the history?
0:11:06 > 0:11:12They belonged to my uncle, who was a medical officer in the army,
0:11:12 > 0:11:16and in his later years he used them for watching birds
0:11:16 > 0:11:20and scenery as he was on his walks, he liked to walk.
0:11:20 > 0:11:22And he told us the history of them.
0:11:22 > 0:11:26- They were used on the Royal Navy ship at some stage.- Right.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29We don't know quite when.
0:11:29 > 0:11:33Then he passed on and I inherited them
0:11:33 > 0:11:35and I've used them quite a bit
0:11:35 > 0:11:40for looking at scenery and on walks in the Lakes and the Peak District,
0:11:40 > 0:11:42but found they were just a little bit heavy for me.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46- They certainly are very heavy. - They are, yeah.
0:11:46 > 0:11:49Well, I'm no expert on binoculars
0:11:49 > 0:11:52but I do think these are rather special.
0:11:52 > 0:11:56First thing to notice is that they were made by Barr and Stroud,
0:11:56 > 0:11:59which is a good name of equipment makers.
0:11:59 > 0:12:03I'm sure they are fantastic for ornithology and bird-watching
0:12:03 > 0:12:05and so on because they must be high powered
0:12:05 > 0:12:08for the original naval and military job.
0:12:08 > 0:12:12So they will certainly do a good job seeing landscapes and nature.
0:12:12 > 0:12:13That's correct.
0:12:13 > 0:12:17Now, I notice that they have these wonderful ends.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- Would you like to demonstrate? - I will, yes.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22They twist out, both of them.
0:12:22 > 0:12:29That, presumably, is for protecting the vision from spray on board ship
0:12:29 > 0:12:32and light coming in at angles, so you can get a good view.
0:12:32 > 0:12:35That's better, actually.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38I am seeing the crowd, the distant crowd, very well.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40I think they are superb.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43Now, although I'm not an expert on binoculars per se,
0:12:43 > 0:12:47I do know that military equipment is very collectible.
0:12:47 > 0:12:52There are some people who will buy them because they know they're buying quality binoculars
0:12:52 > 0:12:55that will do a good job, like yourself, who has enjoyed using them.
0:12:55 > 0:12:58Some people will enjoy the historical nature of them,
0:12:58 > 0:13:02the fact they're linked to the First World War and the servicemen
0:13:02 > 0:13:04and all the activities that went on.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07There'll be museums that will be interested in them.
0:13:07 > 0:13:11There will be people who collect scientific instruments.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13There are lots of categories of interest
0:13:13 > 0:13:16- in this one pair of binoculars.- Right.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19I think for a pair as substantial and technical as this,
0:13:19 > 0:13:22a fair auction estimate, open market value, would be
0:13:22 > 0:13:23- between £80 and £120.- Yes.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- Would you be happy at that? - I would be happy at that.
0:13:26 > 0:13:31I think that's fair to you, gives a good chance to sell but it's not too prohibitive
0:13:31 > 0:13:36and it may be that if two collectors found them, they could compete and they'd make a little bit more.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39So we'll put £80 to £120 on them and put a reserve on them of £80?
0:13:39 > 0:13:41Yes, I'd be happy with that.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44With discretion of the auctioneers.
0:13:44 > 0:13:48Just to tweak it. That'd be fine. Thank you very much.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50Thank you for bringing them in.
0:13:50 > 0:13:55We'll find out if Brian's binoculars do the business in just a moment.
0:13:55 > 0:13:58We are now halfway through our day. We've been working flat out.
0:13:58 > 0:14:02We've found some real gems. I think you've got your own opinions
0:14:02 > 0:14:05on what they're worth but let's find out what the bidders think.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07Let's go straight over to the auction room.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10And this is what we're taking with us.
0:14:10 > 0:14:14Margaret whetted Elizabeth's appetite with her colourful Poole Pottery
0:14:14 > 0:14:17and I hope it makes a good price for her charity.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22Philip had plenty to say about Maureen's candlesticks
0:14:22 > 0:14:25so let's see if they can attract any bidders.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28And will the saleroom share Elizabeth's point of view
0:14:28 > 0:14:31on Brian's unusual field binoculars?
0:14:34 > 0:14:37You have to pay commission in all salerooms.
0:14:37 > 0:14:41Here at Martin and Pole Auctioneers in Wokingham,
0:14:41 > 0:14:45they charge a seller's commission of 15% plus VAT.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49And first to go under auctioneer Garth Lewis's gavel
0:14:49 > 0:14:52are Brian's lovely binoculars.
0:14:52 > 0:14:55These have been in the family for a little while.
0:14:55 > 0:14:56They have.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00Good quality, great condition and we've got a classic £80 to £120 on these.
0:15:00 > 0:15:04- Why have you decided to sell them? - They got a bit heavy.
0:15:04 > 0:15:07They're good binoculars but as you get older, they're a bit too heavy.
0:15:07 > 0:15:10- Have you got yourself a pair of lightweight ones?- I have now.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13- You can keep them round your neck? - That's right.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16Yeah, I don't blame you in a way. Nevertheless, quality always sells.
0:15:16 > 0:15:19Yes, unusual design. I was a bit taken aback by these
0:15:19 > 0:15:22on valuation day because I hadn't seen something like that before.
0:15:22 > 0:15:27Fingers crossed, it's all down to the bidders. Let's find out.
0:15:27 > 0:15:30A good pair of Barr and Stroud field glasses.
0:15:30 > 0:15:33I suspect naval glasses, actually.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35Nice lot.
0:15:35 > 0:15:39Interest here 48, 55 is bid.
0:15:39 > 0:15:4155. Is there any further?
0:15:41 > 0:15:44At £55? At 60, thank you.
0:15:44 > 0:15:45And five here.
0:15:45 > 0:15:4965 then, I can sell at 65.
0:15:50 > 0:15:52If you're all done. £65.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57£65, we've just scraped through that.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00I'm saying just literary scraped through. £65.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04- I'm happy with that. - He used a lot of discretion there but they're gone. You're happy?
0:16:04 > 0:16:07- I'm happy.- That's the main thing. The owner's happy.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10I'm disappointed on your behalf. But at least they've found a home.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13I'm a little bit disappointed but I'm still happy they've gone.
0:16:13 > 0:16:15Elizabeth hoped they'd do better
0:16:15 > 0:16:19but at least Brian seemed happy with the £65 his binoculars made.
0:16:19 > 0:16:22Next up, let's see if Margaret's Poole Pottery
0:16:22 > 0:16:24sinks or swims in the saleroom.
0:16:24 > 0:16:26I like it. I love the bright colours.
0:16:26 > 0:16:29Margaret likes it but unfortunately she can't be here today.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30- But we do have Elizabeth.- Yes.
0:16:30 > 0:16:33Not a lot of money's going on these two things.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36We've got a vase and a plate. But there is a chip to the rim.
0:16:36 > 0:16:40- That's partly why I brought it down to what I thought was a realistic level.- Around £60?
0:16:40 > 0:16:44Yes, and I hope it will make that because the 20th century market
0:16:44 > 0:16:47for bright colours, the modern look, is very strong at the moment.
0:16:47 > 0:16:48I hope that will carry it along.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52- Exactly, fashion dictates these mood swings.- Increasingly.
0:16:52 > 0:16:57It puts the value up. We've got a reserve of £40. Hopefully we'll get there and above.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59It's going under the hammer right now.
0:17:01 > 0:17:04Delphis design, asymmetric shallow dish,
0:17:04 > 0:17:06slight chip to it, unfortunately.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10And a similar vase. Both with printed marks.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13I like this colouring, cos it's greenier rather than orange.
0:17:13 > 0:17:16Quite unusual that, actually. I prefer the green.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19Well, she says in a bright red jacket, but I prefer greens!
0:17:19 > 0:17:23Interest starts with me here at £30 against you. Is there further at 30?
0:17:23 > 0:17:2732, thank you. 35 here?
0:17:27 > 0:17:2935, 8, 40.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32Yes!
0:17:32 > 0:17:34Yes? 42.
0:17:34 > 0:17:35Well, they've gone.
0:17:35 > 0:17:3745.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41It's my bid, 45, if you're all done?
0:17:41 > 0:17:42Yes! Margaret will be pleased.
0:17:42 > 0:17:44She will, she will, definitely.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47- Shame she couldn't be here but they're gone.- I am happy for her.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50A nice mid estimate outcome for Margaret.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53Now let's see how the candlesticks that Philip Serrell valued perform
0:17:53 > 0:17:54as they're up next.
0:17:54 > 0:17:57Candlesticks are always a nice thing to have on the table.
0:17:57 > 0:18:00- Why are you selling them? - Cleaning, really.
0:18:00 > 0:18:01- The cleaning of them?- Yes.
0:18:01 > 0:18:03That's what all of our owners say.
0:18:03 > 0:18:06That's why they're not owners any more.
0:18:06 > 0:18:09- I thought these were attractive. - So did I. They've got the look.
0:18:09 > 0:18:13Yes, absolutely. I think they're great on anybody's table. Fingers crossed.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15Let's find out what the bidders think. Good luck.
0:18:17 > 0:18:22Nice pair of plated candlesticks, cluster columns
0:18:22 > 0:18:24and stepped square plinths.
0:18:24 > 0:18:30I have to start the bidding here at £65 against you. 70.
0:18:30 > 0:18:32It's gone.
0:18:32 > 0:18:34Thank you. And five? 75.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38It's with me. Is there any further? 80. New place. And five?
0:18:38 > 0:18:40Good, they're keen.
0:18:40 > 0:18:4390. 95. Still here, 95.
0:18:43 > 0:18:45100 now. And ten.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48There's a commission, he's looking at the book.
0:18:48 > 0:18:5520. 30. 130, then. It's with me, against you in the room, at 130.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57- That's a good price, 130. - Pleased with that.
0:18:57 > 0:18:58A very good price.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01Practical things, you see. Useful decorative items.
0:19:01 > 0:19:05The thing is, OK, they're not real silver but they're a lot better
0:19:05 > 0:19:09than spending 130 quid on something from a department store,
0:19:09 > 0:19:11a pair of reproduction candlesticks.
0:19:11 > 0:19:13Yes, that's good. I'm pleased.
0:19:13 > 0:19:14- Well done.- Thank you.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20A great result for Maureen. I do hope she's pleased.
0:19:20 > 0:19:24There you are. That concludes the end of our first visit to the saleroom today.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27We are coming back here later on in the programme so don't go away,
0:19:27 > 0:19:30because I can guarantee one or two surprises.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33Put the kettle on and enjoy it. While we were here in the area,
0:19:33 > 0:19:36I thought I'd go off and do a bit of exploring. Take a look at this.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48Garden art is a fascinating subject
0:19:48 > 0:19:52and I've come to Hungerford to find out more about it.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55Collections can range from the historically elegant
0:19:55 > 0:19:58to the truly bizarre and since they can do well at auction,
0:19:58 > 0:20:01it's worth doing your homework.
0:20:02 > 0:20:06Going back to classical times, the ancient Greeks and the Romans
0:20:06 > 0:20:10graced their beautiful gardens with statues of the gods.
0:20:10 > 0:20:15But back in England, gardening and garden ornamentation got off to a much later start,
0:20:15 > 0:20:20possibly because we spend so much time indoors because the weather is so bad
0:20:20 > 0:20:24but also, to appreciate and admire a good garden, you've got to have big enough windows
0:20:24 > 0:20:27to actually see what you're looking at.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30These pieces didn't really come to the fore
0:20:30 > 0:20:33until the 16th century, in Tudor times.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36Before that, large houses had to be fortified and of course,
0:20:36 > 0:20:39arrow slits don't give you much of a view.
0:20:39 > 0:20:41Over the next 100 years or so,
0:20:41 > 0:20:46fashionable British gardens changed from being purely functional plots
0:20:46 > 0:20:49where you would just grow your vegetables and herbs
0:20:49 > 0:20:54to these wonderful, formal, elegant gardens with perfect symmetry all around,
0:20:54 > 0:21:00influenced by the magnificent gardens of the Palace of Versailles in France
0:21:00 > 0:21:01and the Vatican in Rome.
0:21:03 > 0:21:07Classical statues and decorated urns made of lead
0:21:07 > 0:21:12were hand-carved in stone became a must-have in the gardens of the wealthy.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16Many of these were collected in Italy and France by the well-to-do,
0:21:16 > 0:21:20completing their education on the grand tour of Europe.
0:21:24 > 0:21:25Midway through the 18th century,
0:21:25 > 0:21:28a more naturalistic landscape style of gardening took over,
0:21:28 > 0:21:31especially on the big estates with works by designers
0:21:31 > 0:21:36such as Capability Brown sweeping away the formality of those earlier years.
0:21:39 > 0:21:45And by 1760, Arcadia in the shape of shepherds and shepherdesses was in
0:21:45 > 0:21:48and classical gods were out.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54By the Victorian times, the Industrial Revolution
0:21:54 > 0:21:59was well underway, which meant the expansion of the middle classes and they had aspirations.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03They wanted to and did own their own gardens, albeit more modest,
0:22:03 > 0:22:06which meant the established Georgian landscape gardens
0:22:06 > 0:22:10were sometimes superseded and upstaged by public parks
0:22:10 > 0:22:13and smaller flower gardens, which were back in fashion.
0:22:15 > 0:22:20This new breed of gardeners were eager for the mass-produced garden pieces
0:22:20 > 0:22:22that were now being made in factories.
0:22:25 > 0:22:29So, garden art began to be accessible to many more people,
0:22:29 > 0:22:30as it is today.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36'I've come to Hungerford to this centre to meet Travis Nettleton,
0:22:36 > 0:22:40'a specialist in garden art, to get a few tips.'
0:22:42 > 0:22:46- Have you made any mistakes? I've made loads.- I have, I have.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50I've raced into an auction, running late,
0:22:50 > 0:22:53saw a pair of cast iron urns on the screen.
0:22:53 > 0:22:57I leisurely put my hand up and kept putting my hand up till I got them
0:22:57 > 0:23:00and it wasn't really until I went to collect them
0:23:00 > 0:23:03I realised I'd made the fatal error of not looking at the size.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06I was expecting them to be up to about here,
0:23:06 > 0:23:11that is the standard urn on a plinth size.
0:23:11 > 0:23:15- They turned out to be much smaller. - Is that them? You're joking!
0:23:15 > 0:23:21- They were in the photograph on the television. How funny is that?- So...
0:23:21 > 0:23:25- That's certainly one of my mistakes. - Always check the dimensions.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28Make sure they fit the space required. It makes you laugh though!
0:23:28 > 0:23:34- We all make mistakes.- Fashion in garden design has changed dramatically over the centuries.
0:23:34 > 0:23:39Do you find there's something really hot people want at the moment, or is it across the board?
0:23:39 > 0:23:42It's really down to the individual and down to the garden itself.
0:23:42 > 0:23:46For a contemporary or minimalist garden you'd want something modern.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49But if you still want the English country garden look,
0:23:49 > 0:23:52maybe an 18th century Portland stone.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55- That's very nice, isn't it? - Absolutely.
0:23:55 > 0:23:59For the 18th century pieces, you're paying maybe 4000 for that sundial.
0:23:59 > 0:24:05- It's a beautiful thing. - It's a timeless piece as well. - Absolutely. Good gag!
0:24:05 > 0:24:08We've just look at a bit of Portland stone.
0:24:08 > 0:24:12Can we have a look at stone, say reconstituted 19th century stone
0:24:12 > 0:24:16which could pass as that but obviously at a fraction of the price?
0:24:16 > 0:24:20Absolutely. This was actually made by Austin & Seeley.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23They were active from about 1828 to the late 19th century.
0:24:23 > 0:24:28They were a very well-known maker and they used to make a lot of composition urns
0:24:28 > 0:24:32and statues and fine urns.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35What do you look for when you see a piece like this?
0:24:35 > 0:24:39If you're looking for Austin and Seeley, you're looking for the chunks of limestone.
0:24:39 > 0:24:44- Can you see they've raised out?- Yes. - They added this into their aggregate mix
0:24:44 > 0:24:47and that's when you really spot an Austin & Seeley piece.
0:24:47 > 0:24:54- Something like this, you're paying...?- For the pair of urns, you'll be paying about £3,000.- OK.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56CLASSICAL MUSIC
0:25:04 > 0:25:10Looking at these classical statues and garden art in general, it's very much on a par with antiques.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14- You do have to be careful of forgeries.- You have to know what you're buying.
0:25:14 > 0:25:16There are a lot of forgeries on the market.
0:25:16 > 0:25:22I've got a very good example here. This looks like a Coalbrookdale.
0:25:22 > 0:25:27Fern with a blackberry bench, but in fact this is a fake that has come in from China.
0:25:27 > 0:25:32You can tell because of the castings. It's not very crisp.
0:25:32 > 0:25:38- It's not that defined. - And Coalbrookdale were renowned for fine casting.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41That behind you obviously is the real McCoy?
0:25:41 > 0:25:46This one is a Nasturtium pattern, Coalbrookdale. Original, about 1860.
0:25:46 > 0:25:51- What would that set you back? - a bench like this, about £3,500.
0:25:51 > 0:25:54A bench like this, 400, 500.
0:25:54 > 0:25:56If it was original, 1,500 to 2,000.
0:25:56 > 0:26:01- You've got to know what you're looking at, haven't you?- Absolutely.
0:26:04 > 0:26:08There really is something for everybody, isn't there?
0:26:08 > 0:26:12Any tips for the future? Where's it going?
0:26:12 > 0:26:17If you're looking to invest seriously in garden statues and garden art,
0:26:17 > 0:26:21I would always pick something that's either signed
0:26:21 > 0:26:26or something that's solid stone and something with some provenance and a bit of history.
0:26:26 > 0:26:30- That way you will always do well. - It's the same old thing, isn't it?
0:26:30 > 0:26:33- Quality always sells.- Absolutely.
0:26:33 > 0:26:34Come on. Let's get a cup of tea.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47Here at Wellington College, we've still plenty of unbeatable bygones to value.
0:26:47 > 0:26:53It looks like Philip's having a fun time putting a price on Penny's Dinky toy.
0:26:53 > 0:26:55- How are you, my love? - I'm fine, thank you.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58- Bit old for this sort of thing, aren't you?- I am, yes.
0:26:58 > 0:27:02- How did you come by this?- This was donated to one of my charity shops
0:27:02 > 0:27:06and we didn't want to sell it and not get enough for it.
0:27:06 > 0:27:10I always think that when someone brings you a toy
0:27:10 > 0:27:15- that's never been played with, there's like a sad story behind it. - It is.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19Let's just look at the nuts and bolts of this first.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22It's a Dinky toy and if you look just there,
0:27:22 > 0:27:24it's model number 955.
0:27:26 > 0:27:28It's nice you've got the original box with it.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31If I knew my lorries I could tell you,
0:27:31 > 0:27:34but I think that's either a Bedford or a Commer.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37I would guess this would date and it is a guess,
0:27:37 > 0:27:43the lorry would date round about 1960, give or take three or four years either way.
0:27:43 > 0:27:48It's great because you've got this extending ladder and up it comes.
0:27:48 > 0:27:53But the thing about this, let's turn it over and have a look,
0:27:53 > 0:27:55there we've got:
0:27:55 > 0:28:00"Dinky Supertoys Fire Engine made in England, Meccano."
0:28:00 > 0:28:06So Meccano owned Dinky toys. But you look at that,
0:28:06 > 0:28:10- this has never, ever been played with, as it?- No, it hasn't.
0:28:10 > 0:28:12There isn't a scratch or a mark on it,
0:28:12 > 0:28:16which is great from a collector's point of view
0:28:16 > 0:28:20but I always think it's such a sad story, isn't it?
0:28:20 > 0:28:24Was it bought as a present for someone who perhaps had an illness?
0:28:24 > 0:28:26Perhaps they didn't even like it as a toy
0:28:26 > 0:28:30and they put it in a cupboard and it never came out again.
0:28:30 > 0:28:33The net result is you've got a toy now that's quite collectible.
0:28:33 > 0:28:40- I think that this toy is worth 60 to £90 like that.- Right.
0:28:40 > 0:28:42Take that away and I think it's worth less.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45- OK.- I think you need to put a reserve on it of £50,
0:28:45 > 0:28:51but such is the demand for these things in their entirety,
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- you can buy brand new fake boxes... - Right.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57..to match up to your toy.
0:28:57 > 0:29:00But I just think that's such a lovely thing.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03You must get lots of toys brought into your shops?
0:29:03 > 0:29:05We do get a lot of toys donated but not often this old
0:29:05 > 0:29:10- and not often in this condition. - Has anybody brought anything really valuable?
0:29:10 > 0:29:16We did once find a letter from Florence Nightingale
0:29:16 > 0:29:20- which we sold at auction. - What did it make?- £900.
0:29:20 > 0:29:21- £900?- Yes.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26- Hold on, I'll have a look in here. - LAUGHTER
0:29:27 > 0:29:31Beautifully preserved. Let's hope it amuses the bidders when it comes up for sale.
0:29:31 > 0:29:36First, I've spotted a hot item of my own, with Geoff's stunning Moorcroft vase.
0:29:36 > 0:29:39It looks like your baby there, doesn't it?
0:29:39 > 0:29:42- Hello.- Is it very precious to you?
0:29:42 > 0:29:44It is to me, yes, but it won't be for long.
0:29:44 > 0:29:48- It's going to sale, I'm afraid. - What do you do for a living, Geoff?
0:29:48 > 0:29:51- I'm a driving instructor. - You must have nerves of steel.
0:29:51 > 0:29:54- Some would say. - Well you'll enjoy the auction room.
0:29:54 > 0:29:57- How long have you had this piece of Moorcroft?- Only a few months.
0:29:57 > 0:30:03It was left to me, it was given to me by my elderly neighbours, who died recently.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
0:30:05 > 0:30:08Yes, she was a lovely lady, I was doing odds jobs for her,
0:30:08 > 0:30:11cutting the grass, defrosting the fridge, things like that.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14Simple things, and she asked me to get rid of this.
0:30:14 > 0:30:17I think she meant take to it the charity shop.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20- Really?- But I'm glad I didn't.
0:30:20 > 0:30:22- Oh, gosh. Can I just have a look? - Of course.
0:30:22 > 0:30:26Well, you know what it is, don't you? It's a bit of Moorcroft.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29William Moorcroft, a wonderful designer, not just a designer,
0:30:29 > 0:30:31but let's say a chemist.
0:30:31 > 0:30:36Credited for inventing the flambe glaze. You know, that lovely deep red.
0:30:36 > 0:30:39- You know, that was his own personal touch.- It's not to my taste.
0:30:39 > 0:30:40I love it, actually.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42I do like it.
0:30:42 > 0:30:45Obviously started out life as McIntyre Moorcroft,
0:30:45 > 0:30:49but by the time this piece was made, the factory was just known as Moorcroft.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52- This is the pomegranate pattern. - So I understand.
0:30:52 > 0:30:57This lovely vase, and it was in production from 1913 to 1925.
0:30:57 > 0:31:03And the condition is very, very good.
0:31:03 > 0:31:07So is this something that you're intending to keep, it's not to your taste at all?
0:31:07 > 0:31:10No. First of all, I wouldn't collect anything that's easily breakable.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12Right, OK.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16Secondly, the colours, I find them rather depressing.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20If it had been a piece of Clarice Cliff, nice and bright, sunny colours.
0:31:20 > 0:31:23- I might have liked it. - Well, each to their own.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26I prefer the softer muted, more bruised colours.
0:31:26 > 0:31:29When you look at this, this looks like nature at work.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32You know, when you see an apple on a tree and it starts to turn colour
0:31:32 > 0:31:36and that red looks in harmony with the greens around it.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39Nature has a way of working colours together,
0:31:39 > 0:31:43whereas I think Clarice Cliff, that's more bizarre, more sort of in your face,
0:31:43 > 0:31:45and for me, I don't like that, but I like stuff like this.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48- As nature intended. - Each to their own.
0:31:48 > 0:31:52Yes. I'm sure the collectors will love this as well.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54Any idea of value?
0:31:54 > 0:31:59I saw a recent Flog It! and a similar size Moorcroft went for £2,000.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02Yes, it wasn't the pomegranate pattern, though.
0:32:02 > 0:32:04This is quite a popular pattern.
0:32:04 > 0:32:08It was in production for a fair few years, hence it's not so desirable,
0:32:08 > 0:32:17but nevertheless, something like this SHOULD fetch easily, £1,000-£1,200 as a starting point.
0:32:17 > 0:32:21I'd like to think we'd get it somewhere near that £2,000, maybe £1,500 or £1,600.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23- So would I.- Happy?
0:32:23 > 0:32:26Yes, indeed.
0:32:26 > 0:32:30We'll be back to see how Geoff's vase fares when it goes under the hammer in just a minute.
0:32:30 > 0:32:34But right now, it's time to put Elizabeth to the test with Julie's gold watches.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36What is the story behind them?
0:32:36 > 0:32:40My mum inherited them from her aunt, and my mother's Dutch.
0:32:40 > 0:32:44- Right.- So I know that they're not English in make.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47And I know that one of them
0:32:47 > 0:32:51was a wedding present to my great aunt, but I'm not sure which one.
0:32:51 > 0:32:56- Right.- The pendant watch, I know doesn't work.
0:32:56 > 0:33:02The wristwatch, it's very small, and I'd never be able to wear it,
0:33:02 > 0:33:06and in this digital age I'm not really one for a wind-up watch.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10Now when was the wedding you referred to? Do you know when that was?
0:33:10 > 0:33:17It would have been between 1930 and 1940. We're not sure of the exact date.
0:33:17 > 0:33:23What we have is a continental watch here, a little fob watch, stamped 585.
0:33:23 > 0:33:29It's very much in the sort of almost Victorian or Georgian style, in terms of the little circular watch.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34It's enclosed by its case with a little hanging loop. And it's engraved with initials.
0:33:34 > 0:33:36Now are these initials relevant to your...?
0:33:36 > 0:33:41Yes, I believe the first letter is L, and my great auntie's name was Lily.
0:33:41 > 0:33:48- Right.- My mother's name is Lily. Which is why I think that she probably gave it to my mum.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50If I can just open up the watch...
0:33:50 > 0:33:55the face there again is very traditional in the sense of how you would find a Victorian pocket watch.
0:33:55 > 0:34:01It has the Arabic numerals in black on the white enamelled dial, with a subsidiary seconds dial there.
0:34:01 > 0:34:04Now you say it's never had a glass to your knowledge.
0:34:04 > 0:34:08- No.- It would have originally had a glass and it's an inconvenience that the glass is missing,
0:34:08 > 0:34:15but the important thing is that the hands and more importantly still, the enamel is in such lovely condition.
0:34:15 > 0:34:20Because that is difficult and costly to repair or replace. So I wouldn't worry about the lack of the glass.
0:34:20 > 0:34:24The fact it doesn't work won't deflect too much from the value.
0:34:24 > 0:34:28Watches tend to be sold as seen, with the expectation that they need
0:34:28 > 0:34:34cleaning or a bit of tweaking any way at auction, so that's fine. That contrasts nicely with this elegant,
0:34:34 > 0:34:38very svelte Connard watch, which is nice because it's manual,
0:34:38 > 0:34:43and for some people the fact it's a manual wind is the advantage, because some people love to wear
0:34:43 > 0:34:46and use proper wind up watches.
0:34:46 > 0:34:51Good name, good make and the integral bracelet, which is a wonderful
0:34:51 > 0:34:55sort of sinuous strap, mesh strap, I think is just gorgeous.
0:34:55 > 0:34:58Very elegant watch. Again continental standard of gold.
0:34:58 > 0:35:03I would think that we would put them to auction, if you wanted to sell them, as a group.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06It would make sense to have a bit of competition.
0:35:06 > 0:35:09Somebody might want the chain, or the wristwatch.
0:35:09 > 0:35:14Put them in a little group, they complement each other, but if you had two people tussling to buy them
0:35:14 > 0:35:16- the bidding might go up a bit more. - OK.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19But we will start it at a price of perhaps £120-£180.
0:35:21 > 0:35:23- Are you happy with that?- Yes.
0:35:23 > 0:35:25Put a reserve on of £120.
0:35:25 > 0:35:27- Yeah, that's fine.- Superb.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31- So thank you for bringing them in, they're really lovely.- Thank you.
0:35:31 > 0:35:37Here's hoping the watches clock up some serious cash for Julie.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40OK, it's time to take our last three items over to the auction room,
0:35:40 > 0:35:44but first here's a quick reminder of what they are.
0:35:44 > 0:35:50Penny's pristine Dinky fire engine got Philip hot under the collar.
0:35:50 > 0:35:56Jeff may not have liked it, but I thought this Moorcroft vase was a natural beauty.
0:35:56 > 0:36:01And Elizabeth really struck gold with Julie's elegant fob and wristwatches.
0:36:02 > 0:36:07So it's back to Martin & Pole's in Wokingham for the auction.
0:36:07 > 0:36:11And there's just enough time for a quick chat with auctioneer Garth Lewis.
0:36:13 > 0:36:17Well, time is definitely up for Julie's watches. I'm not sure about the wristwatch.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20It's tiny and I'm sure women nowadays wouldn't wear a watch like that.
0:36:20 > 0:36:24Most women wear sort of man-sized watches like this one, I think.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27Nevertheless, we have £120-£180 on these.
0:36:27 > 0:36:31Yes, and there has actually been a little bit of delay between the valuation day
0:36:31 > 0:36:35and us speaking now, and that has been to the owner's great advantage.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38Because it's gone up.
0:36:38 > 0:36:42Gold is just sky rocketing, and I have taken it upon myself to up
0:36:42 > 0:36:46the estimate a little bit on these, just to reflect the bullion price.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49As you say, the watch is still a functioning watch
0:36:49 > 0:36:54but there is a lot of gold in there, which might well end up being melted.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56I think that would go to melt, that one, don't you.
0:36:56 > 0:37:01Possibly not the other fob watch, it's very pretty. But it's the underlying bullion price.
0:37:01 > 0:37:03So you have now adjusted the estimate to?
0:37:03 > 0:37:06250-350 now.
0:37:06 > 0:37:07That's sensible.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10Absolutely, and very doable, too.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13So let's get right on with it and see
0:37:13 > 0:37:18if there are enough gold-diggers round to net Julie a good result.
0:37:18 > 0:37:21Since the valuation day we've now got a revised valuation,
0:37:21 > 0:37:24and the estimate's gone up to £250-£350
0:37:24 > 0:37:30because the price of precious metals, gold and silver, for scrap value has gone through the roof.
0:37:30 > 0:37:32Not that these are going to be scrap any way.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35No, no, but it helps to set it.
0:37:35 > 0:37:39Yes, helps the bottom level, to find a valuation.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42And the auctioneer agreed with the new valuation, so we're all very happy.
0:37:42 > 0:37:47We're going to find out what the bidders think right now, because they're going under the hammer.
0:37:49 > 0:37:54Ladies 14-carat gold fob watch with engraved monogram,
0:37:54 > 0:37:58and there's also a more modern Chopard 18-carat gold wristwatch
0:37:58 > 0:38:02with mesh bracelet. We know what gold's been doing recently,
0:38:02 > 0:38:03so where can I start with this?
0:38:03 > 0:38:07150, may I say? 150, thank you.
0:38:07 > 0:38:13It's bid 150, 160, 170, 180. 190.
0:38:15 > 0:38:20200. 220, 220, all done at 220?
0:38:22 > 0:38:26Yes! The hammer's gone down right on that new valuation.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29- Spot on, yes.- It pays to wait, it pays to be patient.
0:38:29 > 0:38:33It's been three-and-a-half months since the valuation,
0:38:33 > 0:38:36so that scrap metal price has gone through the roof.
0:38:36 > 0:38:41- I'm very happy.- Question is, is Mum going to be happy? - I think so.- Yeah?- Yeah.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44'With the gold prices is at an all-time high,
0:38:44 > 0:38:47'Julie couldn't have picked a better time to sell those watches.'
0:38:49 > 0:38:50'It's Geoff's Moorcroft up next,
0:38:50 > 0:38:55'so let's see if this stunning glaze catches anyone's gaze.'
0:38:57 > 0:39:00I'm joined by Geoffrey and we're looking for £1,000,
0:39:00 > 0:39:02hopefully £1,200, hopefully a bit more!
0:39:02 > 0:39:04Hopefully a lot more.
0:39:04 > 0:39:05That's what we like - an optimist.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08We always like a bit more, don't we?
0:39:08 > 0:39:11- Have you been looking forward to this?- I have, yes.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13Good. I had a chat to the auctioneer.
0:39:13 > 0:39:18He agreed with the valuation and there's more Moorcroft in the sale. It's in good company.
0:39:18 > 0:39:22- So, fingers crossed, the collectors will find this.- Good.- Good.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24Right, let's put it to the test, shall we?
0:39:24 > 0:39:26Now I'm getting frightened! This is it.
0:39:29 > 0:39:31Here is a Moorcroft vase,
0:39:31 > 0:39:37the renowned pomegranate pattern vase of significant proportions.
0:39:37 > 0:39:43Good order. Waste no time, I need to start the bidding at £600, if I may.
0:39:43 > 0:39:45Is there 600 for it, please?
0:39:47 > 0:39:49500 if you like, I don't mind?
0:39:49 > 0:39:52Is there no interest at £500?
0:39:52 > 0:39:55On the right, thank you, 500 is bid.
0:39:55 > 0:39:59Is there any further at £500 now?
0:39:59 > 0:40:05550, thank you. 600. 650, 650.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09If you're all done at 650, we'll have to move on.
0:40:09 > 0:40:14650... 700, new place. 700 here. 750, now.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17They're leaving it late, aren't they? Everyone wants a bargain here.
0:40:17 > 0:40:23800, 850, 900, £900. I can sell at 900.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26If you're all done at 900, I'm selling.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29They sold at £900.
0:40:29 > 0:40:32Do you know, we struggled, but we got it away.
0:40:32 > 0:40:34It was trundling at £500.
0:40:34 > 0:40:40Nobody wanted to put their hands up, they wanted it for nothing. God!
0:40:40 > 0:40:44We're finding it tough here, having to lever their hands out of their pockets.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47They're all sitting on their hands down at the front. It's gone.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50Unfortunately, at the lower end, but there we go, it's sold.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52'I wish it could have done better
0:40:52 > 0:40:56'but at least someone took Geoff's unwanted vase off his hands.
0:40:56 > 0:41:00'Now, let's see if that Dinky toy truck turns the bidders' heads in the sale room.'
0:41:00 > 0:41:01Right, next up,
0:41:01 > 0:41:05one of my favourite lots - not just of the programme but of the whole entire sale.
0:41:05 > 0:41:09It's a Dinky toy. It's a little fire engine and it belongs to Penny.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11Thank you so much for bringing this in.
0:41:11 > 0:41:13Philip, our expert, beat me to this
0:41:13 > 0:41:16but its boxed, the condition is fabulous, well looked after.
0:41:16 > 0:41:21- It is.- I would love to own this, because I know my little boy would love this little fire engine.
0:41:21 > 0:41:23Why are you selling it?
0:41:23 > 0:41:26I'm actually area manager for a charity and its one of a number
0:41:26 > 0:41:30of items donated to our shop and we weren't sure of the value, so...
0:41:30 > 0:41:35- You brought it along. And the money's going back to the charity. - It is, yes.- Fantastic.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39- That's nice.- That's what we like to hear, because we get lots of letters where people
0:41:39 > 0:41:42buy things in a charity shop, bring them along to Flog It! and sell it,
0:41:42 > 0:41:46then spend the money on shoes and really, the charity doesn't benefit,
0:41:46 > 0:41:48- so hopefully this is a bit of payback, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51- Good luck.- Thanks. - It's going under the hammer now.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56Scale model of a fire engine number 955,
0:41:56 > 0:41:58in good original condition with the box.
0:41:58 > 0:42:00This is a gem.
0:42:00 > 0:42:04Try 50 to start, please. 40 if you like.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06- Oh, come on! - No interest at 40?
0:42:06 > 0:42:10I'll go 30, then... Is bid, £30.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- Right, we're in. - Just keep your hand up, sir.
0:42:12 > 0:42:1532, 35, 38, 40.
0:42:15 > 0:42:21£40, 42, a new place. 45, against you, sir.
0:42:21 > 0:42:27- 48, 50. £50, it's on the aisle. 55, if you like.- Good.
0:42:27 > 0:42:33- 55, it's here at 55 if you're all done? 60, new place. 60.- Fresh legs.
0:42:33 > 0:42:38Against you, sir. 65? 70.
0:42:38 > 0:42:42- Get in.- 75, 75, then.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44Are you all done at 75?
0:42:44 > 0:42:48- Look, that was pretty good, that was pretty good.- Fantastic.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50- I'm happy with that. - Fantastic, thank you.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54- Are you happy, Penny?- Yeah.- Thanks for bringing such a lovely thing in.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56You're welcome.
0:42:56 > 0:42:59'A great result, and I'm so glad the money is going to a good cause.'
0:42:59 > 0:43:03Well, that's it. It's all over for our owners.
0:43:03 > 0:43:05As you can see, the auction's still going on
0:43:05 > 0:43:08but we've had a bit of a mixed day. You can't win 'em all!
0:43:08 > 0:43:11It's not an exact science, putting values on things.
0:43:11 > 0:43:15I wouldn't like to do it for a living, but we managed to send most people home happy.
0:43:15 > 0:43:16I hope you've enjoyed the show.
0:43:16 > 0:43:20Hopefully there'll be one or two more surprises in the future.
0:43:20 > 0:43:22Until then, it's goodbye from Wokingham.
0:43:42 > 0:43:45Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:45 > 0:43:48E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk