0:00:07 > 0:00:10Today we're in Lancashire, a county renowned for its history,
0:00:10 > 0:00:12heritage and its hotpot.
0:00:12 > 0:00:13Later on in the programme,
0:00:13 > 0:00:15I'll be investigating the interiors
0:00:15 > 0:00:18of this stunning Elizabethan mansion house.
0:00:18 > 0:00:21But first, it's over to our valuations which are taking place
0:00:21 > 0:00:23in another grade one listed building
0:00:23 > 0:00:25of a totally different kind.
0:00:25 > 0:00:27Welcome to Flog It!
0:00:46 > 0:00:49Today's valuation day is at Blackpool Tower,
0:00:49 > 0:00:53the brainchild of local businessman and Mayor, John Bickerstaff,
0:00:53 > 0:00:57who, after falling in love with the Eiffel Tower in Paris,
0:00:57 > 0:01:00decided to build something similar in his hometown.
0:01:00 > 0:01:02At over 500 feet in height,
0:01:02 > 0:01:05the structure was just as imposing on the landscape
0:01:05 > 0:01:07as the Parisian wonder.
0:01:07 > 0:01:12His vision was a tower with an entertainment complex below it.
0:01:12 > 0:01:13When the door to Blackpool Tower
0:01:13 > 0:01:17opened for the very first time on 14 May 1894,
0:01:17 > 0:01:21the great British public turned up en masse to marvel at the structure
0:01:21 > 0:01:25and ascend that great big tower to take in the spectacular views.
0:01:25 > 0:01:29Over a century later, there's still a wonderful great big queue here.
0:01:29 > 0:01:31The people of Blackpool have turned up,
0:01:31 > 0:01:34laden with unwanted antiques and collectables
0:01:34 > 0:01:37and they're all here to ask our experts that all-important question,
0:01:37 > 0:01:39which is...
0:01:39 > 0:01:40ALL: What's it worth?
0:01:40 > 0:01:43Stay tuned and you'll find out.
0:01:43 > 0:01:48Today's grade one listed experts are James Lewis and David Fletcher.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51- Have you seen anything exciting? - One or two things, James.
0:01:51 > 0:01:52How about you?
0:01:52 > 0:01:55You know, I haven't found anything really exciting yet
0:01:55 > 0:01:57but my theory is that Blackpool is a party town.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00You're a party boy, James, you know about these things.
0:02:00 > 0:02:02Of course, I'm still young and fit.
0:02:02 > 0:02:03Yeah right, whatever!
0:02:05 > 0:02:08So the audience are making their way to their seats.
0:02:08 > 0:02:10Our experts are taking up their first positions
0:02:10 > 0:02:13and We're set find all those important items
0:02:13 > 0:02:14to take off to auction.
0:02:17 > 0:02:20Today we'll find out which of these make hundreds of pounds
0:02:20 > 0:02:22when they go under the hammer.
0:02:22 > 0:02:27Will it be a collection of pocket watches, or this group of medals!
0:02:27 > 0:02:30Find out which does the best later on in the show.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36This spectacular venue is steeped in so much history.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40It has been entertaining the crowds for well over a century.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43People from all over the United Kingdom have flocked here
0:02:43 > 0:02:45and back then, the original entry fee was six old pence,
0:02:45 > 0:02:48that's 2.5p in today's money.
0:02:48 > 0:02:50Thousands and thousands of people have been entertained
0:02:50 > 0:02:52by the world's top performers,
0:02:52 > 0:02:55including Britain's most popular clown, Charlie Cairoli,
0:02:55 > 0:03:00who got up to his tricks here down in that circus ring for 40 years.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04So let's get cracking with today's valuations
0:03:04 > 0:03:07and James Lewis is taking a trip down memory lane.
0:03:07 > 0:03:11I think if most people said that poison bottles
0:03:11 > 0:03:13and drug jars reminded them of their childhood,
0:03:13 > 0:03:17the first thing would happen is Social Services would be called in!
0:03:17 > 0:03:19But I have to say when I look at these,
0:03:19 > 0:03:24that is exactly what it makes me think of, times when I was a kid.
0:03:24 > 0:03:27My mum was a qualified pharmacist, my dad was a pharmacist,
0:03:27 > 0:03:30my grandmother was a pharmacist so whenever I went
0:03:30 > 0:03:34to my grandparents' house, they used to keep the sugar in a drug jar.
0:03:34 > 0:03:38Oil and vinegar and all this sort of thing, so slightly strange,
0:03:38 > 0:03:40I admit, but jolly practical.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44A lot of these are very nice examples because you've got the gilded
0:03:44 > 0:03:48and the glass labels, especially on the blue.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50We've got a really interesting make. How did you come to have them?
0:03:50 > 0:03:52A pharmaceutical background?
0:03:52 > 0:03:58- My brother-in-law was a chemist who retired 25 years ago.- OK.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01When he retired, the shop closed down.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03Some of these bottles, he took with him to his new house.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07He put them in the cellar and forgot about them.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11When he decided to move a couple of weeks ago, cleaning the cellar out
0:04:11 > 0:04:14and he said, would you like to take these bottles to the car boot?
0:04:14 > 0:04:17I thought, they're too good to take to the car boot,
0:04:17 > 0:04:19so I brought them along today.
0:04:19 > 0:04:20I think you're right,
0:04:20 > 0:04:25we have a mix and there are more in the box that I saw earlier.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28On top of the ten plain ones we're not seeing on the table,
0:04:28 > 0:04:32we've got these and these are by far the most interesting.
0:04:32 > 0:04:37SYR stands for syrup so these are syrup jars, syrup bottles,
0:04:37 > 0:04:40that have a slightly strange stopper because most drug jars
0:04:40 > 0:04:44and bottles have a ground glass stopper where the
0:04:44 > 0:04:47outside of the stopper and the inside of the neck of the bottle
0:04:47 > 0:04:49are ground so they make a very good seal.
0:04:49 > 0:04:53But if you imagine having something sticky
0:04:53 > 0:04:58and sugary in a ground glass stopper, as soon as you put the stopper in,
0:04:58 > 0:05:03leave it overnight, it's going to set fast and you'll never get it off.
0:05:03 > 0:05:06These syrup jars have that, like a little dropper almost,
0:05:06 > 0:05:10but it prevents the bottle getting stuck with it.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13The other interesting feature is a bottle like this,
0:05:13 > 0:05:14the green glass one.
0:05:14 > 0:05:16As soon as you pick that off the shelf,
0:05:16 > 0:05:20you realise that it is ribbed, so if you are a pharmacist in your shop,
0:05:20 > 0:05:23that suddenly tells you you have picked up a poison bottle.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27The fact that it is ribbed. It is an immediate warning.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- We've got an interesting mix. No great family link for?- No.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34No sentimental value at all.
0:05:34 > 0:05:38Well, the blue glass with the labels in good order
0:05:38 > 0:05:43are worth about £10, £12 or £14 each.
0:05:43 > 0:05:46Some with chipped stoppers so we'll make a bit of an allowance.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49The ribbed glass without the labels are less.
0:05:49 > 0:05:52Then we've got the oil jar, worth maybe £6 or £7,
0:05:52 > 0:05:57so I reckon if we put an estimate of £60-£100 on the collection,
0:05:57 > 0:06:01it's not huge, it's better than car boot prices,
0:06:01 > 0:06:03but not a massive difference.
0:06:03 > 0:06:04It's a day out for the children.
0:06:04 > 0:06:07It is and for something that was just left in the cellar,
0:06:07 > 0:06:08it's better than nothing.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11- It is.- Happy to go ahead on that basis?- Definitely.
0:06:11 > 0:06:13Let's give it a go, I'm sure it will do well.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16- You never know, it might make a bit more.- That would be great.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19Let's hope they appeal to someone as much as they do to James.
0:06:19 > 0:06:23Time to head outside now to the seafront where David Fletcher
0:06:23 > 0:06:26is enjoying the sunshine and some ceramics.
0:06:27 > 0:06:30Marie and Norman, hello and welcome to Flog It!
0:06:30 > 0:06:33Who needs to be in the West Indies when you have a day like this.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35- It's fantastic.- Wonderful.
0:06:35 > 0:06:40You've brought with you a vase manufactured by the Moore factory.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42What can you tell me about it?
0:06:42 > 0:06:44My father bought it for my mother
0:06:44 > 0:06:47when they were on honeymoon in Brighton in 1951.
0:06:47 > 0:06:51- OK, and do you like it?- I do, yes. I think it's very attractive.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54- Do you like it, Norman? - I'm not sure about it really.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57I think it's really well made, you can see the detail on it,
0:06:57 > 0:06:58but it doesn't really appeal to me.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02Is it the sort of thing you'd have bought for Marie on your honeymoon?
0:07:02 > 0:07:03I don't think so, no.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07OK, let's talk about it in more detail.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10It's clearly marked and we know that this mark was used
0:07:10 > 0:07:13by the Moore factory between 1880 and 1900.
0:07:13 > 0:07:17In 1891, these were additionally marked, "Made in England",
0:07:17 > 0:07:19and this is not marked, "Made in England",
0:07:19 > 0:07:23so we know it was made within a period of 11 years.
0:07:23 > 0:07:26It is very typical of decorative items that were popular
0:07:26 > 0:07:28at that time in the late 19th century.
0:07:28 > 0:07:30- It looks Victorian, doesn't it?- Yes.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33I think it's perhaps not everyone's cup of tea
0:07:33 > 0:07:36because you might argue it is slightly over decorated.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38Why are you selling it?
0:07:38 > 0:07:43We recently moved up here from Essex to be near our grandchildren.
0:07:43 > 0:07:45Although it's lovely, it is delicate
0:07:45 > 0:07:48and the grandchildren are quite lively.
0:07:48 > 0:07:52You're concerned they might break it, I'm not surprised, really.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55- They would want to handle it. - Of course, children do, don't they?
0:07:56 > 0:07:59OK, I must be a little analytical here.
0:07:59 > 0:08:03As I'm sure you've noticed, there are a couple of pretty small chips.
0:08:03 > 0:08:05They are going to put some people off,
0:08:05 > 0:08:08so we must be mindful of that, I'm afraid.
0:08:08 > 0:08:11By and large, it's in pretty good condition.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13I am confident that it will do well at auction.
0:08:13 > 0:08:15It's not going to set the world alight.
0:08:15 > 0:08:19You're not going to go off to the West Indies for your next holiday.
0:08:19 > 0:08:21- Shame!- Blackpool for the time being, I think.
0:08:21 > 0:08:24- On a day like this, it would be good.- Exactly.
0:08:24 > 0:08:31- I reckon this will make between £60 and £100.- That's good.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35- Are you happy with that estimate? - Yes.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38We will put a reserve of £60 on.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41I am confident it will make beyond its top estimate.
0:08:41 > 0:08:43- Thank you and I will see you at the sale.- Thank you.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47Flog It! is at the Tower Circus for just one day.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50For some people, this place is a second home.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53Keeping heritage alive is not just about buildings and traditions
0:08:53 > 0:08:56and possessions, it can also be about performing arts.
0:08:56 > 0:08:58Let me introduce you to Lassie and Maureen.
0:08:58 > 0:09:00I know you are the producer here in the circus today.
0:09:00 > 0:09:04- You've also been a performer in your time?- That's right.
0:09:04 > 0:09:08- I have been flying trapeze for 21 years.- Flying trapeze up there?- Yes.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12- Gosh, what's it like up there? - Frightening.- I bet it is.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15You obviously met your wife in the circus, Maureen, how do you do?
0:09:15 > 0:09:18- What did you do in the circus? - I was a foot juggler.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20Were you? Gosh!
0:09:20 > 0:09:22Just paint the picture.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24You're laying on your back, legs in the air, juggling balls?
0:09:24 > 0:09:28That's correct, with balls and barrels and cigars.
0:09:28 > 0:09:32- How did you learn to do that? - With great difficulty.- Gosh!
0:09:32 > 0:09:35It isn't an easy act but it's a nice act.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38I know you're passing these skills on traditions on
0:09:38 > 0:09:41because meet the next generation of the family.
0:09:41 > 0:09:42Hi guys. What's your name?
0:09:42 > 0:09:44Monkey the clown.
0:09:44 > 0:09:46Mr Beale, nice to meet you.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49How many generations is it now in the family? Six, seven or eight?
0:09:49 > 0:09:52I think it's nine generations on my mother's side
0:09:52 > 0:09:55and seven generations on my father's side, the fellow in the blue suit.
0:09:55 > 0:09:57- You were born to do this, weren't you really?- Unfortunately, yes.
0:09:57 > 0:10:00Are you going to settle for being a clown all your life
0:10:00 > 0:10:01or will you do other things?
0:10:01 > 0:10:05Will you do the trapeze and juggling or...fire, sort of, walking...?
0:10:05 > 0:10:08- Well, to be honest, clowning is the pinnacle of circus.- Yeah.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11At the end of the day, you're the main attraction in the show.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14We've done that many things - we've been acrobats, jugglers, trapeze...
0:10:14 > 0:10:15- You can do all of that.- All that.
0:10:15 > 0:10:17A clown has to learn all those skills, doesn't he?
0:10:17 > 0:10:20- A good clown should know how to do anything.- Yes. Well, good luck.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23If you want to catch these guys, this whole family, in action,
0:10:23 > 0:10:27they're performing here six days a week and it's well worth seeing.
0:10:27 > 0:10:31Back outside now to the prom where David is hoping to hit the target
0:10:31 > 0:10:33with his next item.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36- Hello, Betty.- Hello, David. - Welcome to Flog It!- Thank you.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39Now, I know we live in dangerous times,
0:10:39 > 0:10:42but I hadn't expected to see a young lady like you walking down the prom
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- with a pistol in her hand. - A young lady!
0:10:45 > 0:10:47But thank you for bringing it along.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49I know I shouldn't ask a lady her age,
0:10:49 > 0:10:53- but would you mind telling me how old you are?- I'm 96.- 96.- Yes.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- Four years from the Queen's telegram.- Exactly.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58My cousin's 102.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01Well, it must be the ozone blowing off the sea up here, I think.
0:11:01 > 0:11:05- Well, probably.- And how did you come to own this, Betty?
0:11:05 > 0:11:09It was passed down the family to me from my mother-in-law's great aunt,
0:11:09 > 0:11:12then to my husband and then to me.
0:11:12 > 0:11:15Well, I'm not very good at working generations out,
0:11:15 > 0:11:18but that must take it back very nearly to the point
0:11:18 > 0:11:20it was actually manufactured.
0:11:20 > 0:11:22Well, it may be older than that,
0:11:22 > 0:11:24because I think it was used at the Battle of Waterloo.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26Really? 1815.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28I think it was probably made just a tad before then,
0:11:28 > 0:11:30I think it's 18th-century.
0:11:30 > 0:11:34And it really is a lovely survivor of that period.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38It's slightly battered and it's cracked
0:11:38 > 0:11:42and just a little bit the worse for wear, but we'd expect that.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45Imagine what it was like, assuming it was used at Waterloo,
0:11:45 > 0:11:47and we think it was,
0:11:47 > 0:11:51actually having to fire and load a weapon like this.
0:11:51 > 0:11:52Your life depended upon it.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55It wasn't terribly accurate, the range was short.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58Who knows? You might even have had to use it just to club someone
0:11:58 > 0:12:00when you got to close quarters.
0:12:00 > 0:12:03And that, I'm sure, would explain some of the damage.
0:12:03 > 0:12:06It's by a manufacturer called Heath,
0:12:06 > 0:12:12and these two star marks here refer to the fact that it's been proofed.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15In other words, at some stage in its life,
0:12:15 > 0:12:18if you'd have pulled the trigger, it wouldn't have blown up in your face.
0:12:18 > 0:12:20And of course what you had,
0:12:20 > 0:12:24as you know, was a flint that was placed just between those
0:12:24 > 0:12:29two metal jaws there which gives it its name - flintlock pistol.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33Now, we always ask this, but why do you want to sell it?
0:12:33 > 0:12:36Well, I'm moving from a roomy house to a small one,
0:12:36 > 0:12:39and the family have enjoyed it over the years,
0:12:39 > 0:12:42- but now I've no room for it.- OK.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44And you might be able to spend the proceeds on buying
0:12:44 > 0:12:46something nice for your new house.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48I'd just love it to go towards a ceramic hob.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51Ceramic hob? OK. We'll put it through the sale then, if we may?
0:12:51 > 0:12:56- Yeah.- I suggest an estimate of £100-£150.- Really?
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- Good, you pleased with that? - Yes.- And a reserve of £100.
0:12:59 > 0:13:00That would be great.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03- OK, I look forward to seeing you at the sale, Betty.- Yes.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06- And thank you very much for coming in today.- It's a pleasure.
0:13:13 > 0:13:14Well, here we are, behind the scenes.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17This is the shot that you don't normally get to see.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19We have a room like this at every valuation day,
0:13:19 > 0:13:21designated as a holding bay.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25All the people you see in this room have been picked out by our experts
0:13:25 > 0:13:29because their antiques could possibly be going under the hammer.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31You could say, at this stage, they're the lucky ones.
0:13:31 > 0:13:33But will their items make a small fortune?
0:13:33 > 0:13:35We're just about to find out.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37We're going to embark on our first trip to the sale room
0:13:37 > 0:13:39to put those valuations to the test
0:13:39 > 0:13:42and here's a quick recap of our experts' first choices.
0:13:42 > 0:13:46John's hoping his chemist bottles can brew up a profit.
0:13:48 > 0:13:52There's that decorative vase brought along by Marie and Norman.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57And also Betty hopes her pistol will go with a bang!
0:14:02 > 0:14:05We've taken a short hop down the coast to Lytham St Annes
0:14:05 > 0:14:06for today's auction
0:14:06 > 0:14:09and the man in charge of the bidding is Jonathan Cook.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12Right now, going under the hammer,
0:14:12 > 0:14:15we have a porcelain bowl made by the manufacturer Moore
0:14:15 > 0:14:18who I've not come across before, so this is quite interesting for me.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20Good luck, Marie. Good luck, Norman.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23I know this was a wedding present for your parents, wasn't it?
0:14:23 > 0:14:25My father bought it for my mother on their honeymoon.
0:14:25 > 0:14:27Have you inherited it since?
0:14:27 > 0:14:31- Yes.- And it's been just a decor at home and you've decided to sell.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- Yes.- OK, well, good luck. I've not come across this before.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35Well, Paul it is quite collected.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38I think for a lot of people today it's rather over-decorated,
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- but I'm pretty confident it'll do OK.- OK, top end of the estimate?
0:14:41 > 0:14:43Plus a bit more? Is it a come and buy me?
0:14:43 > 0:14:48- Well, let's say mid estimate, shall we?- All right. Fingers crossed.
0:14:48 > 0:14:49Moore, figure of porcelain,
0:14:49 > 0:14:53posey bells, circa 1880s, modelled with a cherub, bids of £50.
0:14:53 > 0:14:57Any advance on 50? At £50, five, £55.
0:14:57 > 0:14:58Any advance on 55?
0:14:58 > 0:15:02- £60 in the room. Any advance on 60? - It's going, isn't it?
0:15:02 > 0:15:03Five, 70.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05At 75, 80.
0:15:05 > 0:15:07At £80 in the room.
0:15:07 > 0:15:12Are we all sure at 80? Sell away then at £80, no further interest.
0:15:12 > 0:15:14All done at 80.
0:15:14 > 0:15:17- It's gone. You've got mixed feelings now, haven't you?- Yes.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19Are you feeling a bit upset?
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Half of me is. Half of me is.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25- But, no, it's time to move it on.- OK.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28Selling at auction can be quite emotional
0:15:28 > 0:15:31but David got his estimate spot-on.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33Let's see how James does with his first lot.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35- Good luck with the chemists' bottles, John.- Thank you.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38I'm pleased you decided to put them into auction
0:15:38 > 0:15:40rather than sell them at a car boot. Definitely.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42The interesting thing with these chemists' bottles
0:15:42 > 0:15:45- is that a rare label can make a massive difference.- Yeah.
0:15:45 > 0:15:47And you've got some lovely enamel labels amongst them,
0:15:47 > 0:15:49some red poison bottles. They're a good bunch.
0:15:49 > 0:15:52I bet if you took them to that car boot, like your...
0:15:52 > 0:15:54- It was your brother, telling you to? - That's correct, yeah.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57I bet you'd have only got a tenner for them.
0:15:57 > 0:15:59- Be lucky if you get that at a car boot!- Exactly, exactly!
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- No, tenner for the lot.- Yeah.- Yeah. Well, let's hope.
0:16:02 > 0:16:04Let's hope we get the top end of James' estimate
0:16:04 > 0:16:05and get a little surprise.
0:16:05 > 0:16:10Collection of 20 chemists' pharmacy bottles, various sizes and shapes.
0:16:10 > 0:16:12Bids there of £30.
0:16:12 > 0:16:1332, 34.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16At £34, 36, 8, 40.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19At £40, 42, 44.
0:16:19 > 0:16:216, 8, 50.
0:16:21 > 0:16:225, 60.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24All the bits are coming online. Can you see that?
0:16:24 > 0:16:25They're not in the room at all.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28At 75 on commission, looking for 80.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31At £75, are we all sure at 75?
0:16:31 > 0:16:32Any further interest?
0:16:32 > 0:16:34- I think that's a good result.- Yeah.
0:16:34 > 0:16:36At £75, are we all done?
0:16:36 > 0:16:38Are we all sure?
0:16:38 > 0:16:41- 80. £80 bid. - Fresh legs, right at the end.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43£80. Are we all done at 80?
0:16:43 > 0:16:47Any interest at £80? All sure at 80?
0:16:47 > 0:16:51£80, the hammer's gone down. Good result. Well done, James.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53Yeah, you wouldn't have got that at a car boot, would you?
0:16:53 > 0:16:56- Definitely not, no.- No.- Well done.
0:16:56 > 0:17:00So far, our experts have been right on the money with their estimates,
0:17:00 > 0:17:03so let's hope the bidders have this pistol in their sights.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05- Betty, it's good to see you again. - And you, Paul.
0:17:05 > 0:17:06Going under the hammer,
0:17:06 > 0:17:08we're putting that early 19th century flintlock - pow! -
0:17:08 > 0:17:09to the test.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11Lovely, lovely little pistol.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14Yes, and I'm fascinated that you're going to
0:17:14 > 0:17:16reinvest the money in this ceramic hob.
0:17:16 > 0:17:19- Yes, that's what I need. - Do you cook often?
0:17:19 > 0:17:21- Oh, yes, I cook a lot. - Dinner parties?
0:17:21 > 0:17:24- Well, not exactly.- No.- But I do cook for the family sometimes.
0:17:24 > 0:17:27Well, perhaps Paul and I might come round one evening.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30Oh, well, why not? That would be lovely. I'd enjoy that.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32Here we go, let's put it to the test.
0:17:32 > 0:17:35Early 19th century English flintlock pistol.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38Bids there of £100. Any advance on 100?
0:17:38 > 0:17:40The auctioneer liked this. We had a chat about it yesterday.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42He said it could get the top end, plus.
0:17:42 > 0:17:44We're up there already, nearly.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47160, 170, 180. 190.
0:17:47 > 0:17:49- 190!- 190 on the net.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53Any advance in the room? At 190. On the net, then...
0:17:53 > 0:17:54200 on the telephone.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56- 200.- £200 on the telephone. 220.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01£220 on the net. Any advance on 220?
0:18:01 > 0:18:03All finished, then, at 220?
0:18:03 > 0:18:06240. Any advance on £240?
0:18:06 > 0:18:08- 240.- That's doubled my estimate.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10Betty, Betty, this is good.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12£260. Are we all finished at 260?
0:18:14 > 0:18:17270 if it helps? 270.
0:18:17 > 0:18:20- 270 on the phone. - Any advance on 270?
0:18:20 > 0:18:23All sure in the room? At 270.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25No further interest?
0:18:25 > 0:18:28- Gosh, that hit the target, didn't it?- It did.
0:18:28 > 0:18:29£270. Well done, you!
0:18:29 > 0:18:31Thank you for bringing that in.
0:18:31 > 0:18:32Thank you.
0:18:36 > 0:18:39Well, that's the first batch of antiques under the hammer.
0:18:39 > 0:18:40So far, so good.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42Now the thrill of coming to an auction
0:18:42 > 0:18:46and the excitement of seeking that one missing bit of your collection
0:18:46 > 0:18:48is not a modern concept.
0:18:48 > 0:18:51For centuries, people have been hunting out items of history
0:18:51 > 0:18:53and antiques to adorn their walls.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56Now, not far from here is a place called Browsholme Hall,
0:18:56 > 0:18:59which has a fascinating collection of antiques
0:18:59 > 0:19:03compiled over 14 generations of the same family.
0:19:03 > 0:19:05It is quite unique.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08I went along to investigate. Take a look at this.
0:19:10 > 0:19:14Browsholme Hall is one of over 5,000 listed buildings in Lancashire.
0:19:14 > 0:19:16But what makes this one more special than most
0:19:16 > 0:19:20is it's the oldest surviving family home in the county,
0:19:20 > 0:19:24having been passed down through 14 generations of the Parker family.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29It's estimated that over 90 of Lancashire's historic stately homes
0:19:29 > 0:19:31have been lost over the last century,
0:19:31 > 0:19:32having either been demolished
0:19:32 > 0:19:35or left to fall into a state of disrepair.
0:19:35 > 0:19:39Browsholme Hall, however, is one of the county's proud survivors
0:19:39 > 0:19:42and it's been in the same ownership for the last 500 years.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45Now, that is an impressive claim to fame
0:19:45 > 0:19:47only made possible by the courage, the conviction
0:19:47 > 0:19:51and the incredible antiques of its inhabitants.
0:19:51 > 0:19:55The house was built in 1507 by Edmund Parker,
0:19:55 > 0:19:56using money that he inherited.
0:19:56 > 0:19:59Through the years, each generation has made its own mark
0:19:59 > 0:20:02on the building and that's continuing today
0:20:02 > 0:20:05with the current owners and members of the family,
0:20:05 > 0:20:06and I'm here to take a look around.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08But, first, I want to introduce you
0:20:08 > 0:20:11to two men from the Parker family tree
0:20:11 > 0:20:13who I believe have been instrumental in cementing
0:20:13 > 0:20:17the ancestral roots of Browsholme Hall over the last five centuries.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20And we're going to start with the first gentleman, the current owner.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25- Here we go. Hello, pleased to Nietzsche.- Welcome to you, Paul.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27What a lovely day as well.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30'Robert Parker was left the house and its collection of antiques
0:20:30 > 0:20:34'aged just 19, when he inherited it from a distant relative.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36'And, whilst most people of that age
0:20:36 > 0:20:39'would have sold up and spend the money on partying,
0:20:39 > 0:20:41'Robert chose to stick to his family roots
0:20:41 > 0:20:43'and has lived here ever since.'
0:20:43 > 0:20:45This is a marvellous house.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47What was the house like when you inherited it?
0:20:47 > 0:20:48Well, when we first came to the house,
0:20:48 > 0:20:51we found a house that was almost unliveable in.
0:20:51 > 0:20:54The water supply was poisonous, the electricity supply was dangerous.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56There were no kitchens, no bathrooms.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59So not something you could comfortably move into by any means.
0:20:59 > 0:21:01Right. Obviously, all of your ancestors
0:21:01 > 0:21:05have had a fabulous eye for antiques. They're great collectors.
0:21:05 > 0:21:06Is it something you've inherited?
0:21:06 > 0:21:08And who do you think was the main man?
0:21:08 > 0:21:10The rooms that you'll see today
0:21:10 > 0:21:13are really the creation of Thomas Lister Parker,
0:21:13 > 0:21:16who was one of the early antiquarians.
0:21:16 > 0:21:19Unusual at the beginning of the 19th century
0:21:19 > 0:21:22to actually start admiring what went before
0:21:22 > 0:21:24rather than collecting new and modern things.
0:21:24 > 0:21:26- From the day?- From the day.- Mm.
0:21:26 > 0:21:31So the room as you see it today is his creation.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35What had accumulated in this house in 300 years before he inherited it.
0:21:35 > 0:21:37Do you mind if I take a look around?
0:21:37 > 0:21:39Because, really, this is my kind of thing,
0:21:39 > 0:21:41this whole period, sort of the 1600s.
0:21:41 > 0:21:44- Can I be nosy?- Absolutely. Delighted.- OK, thank you.- Thank you.
0:21:44 > 0:21:49Thomas Lister Parker owned the house from around 1796 to 1824
0:21:49 > 0:21:52and it was him who first discovered all the collections
0:21:52 > 0:21:54stored in Browsholme's attic.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57Whilst generations before had obviously acquired the items
0:21:57 > 0:22:00over the years, they have certainly not appreciated them.
0:22:00 > 0:22:02Luckily, Thomas had an eye for antiques
0:22:02 > 0:22:05and he went on to buy many more.
0:22:05 > 0:22:09Most of the items here in this room were bought by the family
0:22:09 > 0:22:12centuries ago to be used - practical pieces of kit
0:22:12 > 0:22:16which have now become precious antiques for us to enjoy today.
0:22:16 > 0:22:18The first thing that grabs my attention
0:22:18 > 0:22:20is this huge, great big dresser.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22Is it a dresser? No, it's not.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26If you look closely, you can see it in fact is four separate chests.
0:22:26 > 0:22:29These chests were made for the family in the 1600s
0:22:29 > 0:22:32and they are beautifully carved.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36But Thomas, in the 1800s, put them all together to make this dresser
0:22:36 > 0:22:40to make something practical to display all of these antiques on.
0:22:40 > 0:22:43And it is absolutely remarkable.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46Just look at this, this is a panel from a local abbey.
0:22:46 > 0:22:49But it just shows the wonderful carving
0:22:49 > 0:22:51of the secular work of the monks.
0:22:51 > 0:22:54This is classical Renaissance at its very best and here, look,
0:22:54 > 0:22:58if you look closely, you can see Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
0:22:58 > 0:23:01So we're talking around circa the year 250.
0:23:01 > 0:23:04You associate Catherine with the Catherine wheel,
0:23:04 > 0:23:06this is the term we know today, the Catherine wheel.
0:23:06 > 0:23:07How did that come about?
0:23:07 > 0:23:09Well, she was persecuted for her religious beliefs,
0:23:09 > 0:23:12tied to a wheel and beaten to death.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14Horrific, what went on back then.
0:23:17 > 0:23:20Another of Thomas's purchases was this painting,
0:23:20 > 0:23:23which shows the hall as it looked when he was alive.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27This watercolour is by John Butler,
0:23:27 > 0:23:29renowned watercolour artist back in the 1800s.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33He specialised in interiors and he helped the family out quite a lot.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35This was done in 1807
0:23:35 > 0:23:38but, if you look at the hall as it was back then,
0:23:38 > 0:23:41you can see a lot of the pieces of furniture and artefacts
0:23:41 > 0:23:45are still here today, some 200 years later.
0:23:45 > 0:23:46I've spotted these chairs - can you see?
0:23:46 > 0:23:49There's quite a few of them but there's two here, look.
0:23:49 > 0:23:53But look at the abuse somebody has given this chair over the centuries.
0:23:53 > 0:23:56They've obviously enjoyed sitting in it and they've adapted it
0:23:56 > 0:23:59to be turned into a rocking chair for extra comfort.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01But that gives us a fascinating insight,
0:24:01 > 0:24:04not just to the antiques and the architecture of the house,
0:24:04 > 0:24:06but of what the things were used for,
0:24:06 > 0:24:09the social history of the family - work, rest and play.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Thomas Lister Parker was a great patron of the arts,
0:24:14 > 0:24:18spending huge sums of money on collections of paintings
0:24:18 > 0:24:21but, in 1824, he spent up and ran out of money
0:24:21 > 0:24:24and was forced to sell the house he loved so much.
0:24:24 > 0:24:27Although, luckily enough, it stayed in the family
0:24:27 > 0:24:29when his cousin bought it.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32Gosh, I absolutely love this house.
0:24:32 > 0:24:34I wish I was born a Parker!
0:24:34 > 0:24:37You know, every room you walk into, it embraces you,
0:24:37 > 0:24:41it does have a magnificent family feel about it
0:24:41 > 0:24:43and that is so important.
0:24:43 > 0:24:45This staircase is another feature
0:24:45 > 0:24:48installed by the ever-present Thomas Lister Parker.
0:24:48 > 0:24:51And its dates back to the early part of the 1800s.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54But that same glass window there on the landing -
0:24:54 > 0:24:57well, elements of that date back even further.
0:24:57 > 0:25:01He put this together in the 1800s, really, as a montage,
0:25:01 > 0:25:03as a piece of colour, something to enjoy.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06Not for religious purposes but really for antiquarian purposes
0:25:06 > 0:25:10and I can point out some of the early pieces here, look.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14This little picture of Christ, that dates back to around about 1250.
0:25:14 > 0:25:18Here, this little panel, that's around sort of the mid-1500s,
0:25:18 > 0:25:21that's the Tudor Rose, look, Henry VIII.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23And, here, I quite like that.
0:25:23 > 0:25:25That's sort of what the pagans really worship
0:25:25 > 0:25:28and that's the Green Man. Look at that, isn't that lovely?
0:25:28 > 0:25:33That, again, from the 1500s. Beautifully detailed.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36And, being a family home, obviously enjoyed by everybody,
0:25:36 > 0:25:38even the youngsters would like to look at this window.
0:25:38 > 0:25:41But these bars have been added for protection, really,
0:25:41 > 0:25:42to stop them from getting too close
0:25:42 > 0:25:46so they don't poke their fingers through the glass.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48Sensible.
0:25:48 > 0:25:50It's easy to see why Thomas's collection
0:25:50 > 0:25:53attracts thousands of visitors each year,
0:25:53 > 0:25:55but some of his items haven't proved popular
0:25:55 > 0:25:58with the later generations of the family.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01The clock on the east wing dates from 1816
0:26:01 > 0:26:04and although it's been restored, earlier residents chose not
0:26:04 > 0:26:08to repair the mechanism because it has an extremely loud tick,
0:26:08 > 0:26:12which makes it impossible for people in the rooms below to sleep.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17What an incredible house.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19Actually, I should rephrase that and say what an incredible home,
0:26:19 > 0:26:21because that's what it is.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24The building is not just of historical interest
0:26:24 > 0:26:26and significance, but also, its contents,
0:26:26 > 0:26:29they've been in the same family for 14 generations,
0:26:29 > 0:26:31they've been looked after and cherished,
0:26:31 > 0:26:34and it's a wonderful insight into the Parker family social history.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37It's their heritage, they've protected and looked after it.
0:26:37 > 0:26:40And it's good to see a building used for the same purpose
0:26:40 > 0:26:42it was built for - a family home.
0:26:53 > 0:26:55Welcome back to Blackpool and our valuation day.
0:26:55 > 0:26:59- Everybody is in good spirits here, aren't you?- ALL:- Yeah!
0:26:59 > 0:27:02- All enjoying yourselves? - ALL:- Yes!- Cor, what a yes!
0:27:02 > 0:27:06Are there any noes going on? No! We are all a happy bunch here.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09Thank you so much, because without this lot, we would not have a show.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12It's all about you. If you've got any antiques
0:27:12 > 0:27:15and collectables you want to sell, we would love to see you.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18But right now, we're going back to the valuations,
0:27:18 > 0:27:21and James Lewis has wasted no time finding a collection of watches.
0:27:21 > 0:27:22Maureen and Brian,
0:27:22 > 0:27:27you have on the table here about 100 years of the history of the watch.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29Obviously, these didn't all belong to the same person.
0:27:29 > 0:27:32What is the story, what is the history?
0:27:32 > 0:27:35Well, they've come from different homes, as people died,
0:27:35 > 0:27:38father-in-laws collected stuff from other people,
0:27:38 > 0:27:40some are from stepmothers, and they've been
0:27:40 > 0:27:43put in a box in our house in the back of the wardrobe and left there.
0:27:43 > 0:27:46So, they've come from everywhere and you've just put them together.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49Well, let's start with the biggest and most obvious.
0:27:49 > 0:27:52This little chap here, it's known as an open face pocket watch,
0:27:52 > 0:27:55Roman numerals, enamel dial, solid silver case,
0:27:55 > 0:27:59a standard middle-class working man's pocket watch.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03And it is a key wind, so you have to open the back to wind it up.
0:28:03 > 0:28:07This one is more floral, more ladylike, but around the same
0:28:07 > 0:28:12sort of date, maybe 10 years later, 1890, 1900 here.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14And then, we have a little wristwatch.
0:28:14 > 0:28:16But we have two other wristwatches here.
0:28:16 > 0:28:19Now, the strange thing is, what does that look like to you?
0:28:19 > 0:28:22- It looks like a pocket watch. - Doesn't it?
0:28:22 > 0:28:26That is a transitional wristwatch that somebody said,
0:28:26 > 0:28:29"Oh, people are now wearing watches on their wrists.
0:28:29 > 0:28:34"How very strange!" So, all he has done is this designer,
0:28:34 > 0:28:37Ingersoll, have taken a pocket watch and put little brackets on it,
0:28:37 > 0:28:38so they can put a strap on it.
0:28:38 > 0:28:41And that's what the very earliest wristwatches looked like.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43So, let's have a look at this one.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46Because this, for me, is the most interesting one.
0:28:46 > 0:28:51It's dated on the back Christmas 1914, from Lady Werner,
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Number 71, of the 12th Lancers.
0:28:54 > 0:28:58The 12th Lancers were also known as the Prince of Wales'
0:28:58 > 0:29:03Royal Cavalry, so somebody here is wanting to give individual presents
0:29:03 > 0:29:07to each of the mounted cavalrymen. Now, why would you want to do that?
0:29:07 > 0:29:12Well, it is a Royal Regiment, and who is it by? From Lady Werner.
0:29:12 > 0:29:13I looked up on the internet earlier -
0:29:13 > 0:29:19Lady Werner, Ingersoll watches - and apparently, in Christmas 1914,
0:29:19 > 0:29:24she gave one of these to every member of the 12th Lancers. Why?
0:29:24 > 0:29:26There is no record, we don't know.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29Now, you would think they were quite rare, wouldn't you?
0:29:29 > 0:29:32A watch like that, given to the 12th Lancers,
0:29:32 > 0:29:35and I thought, "Oh, this is interesting." A bit of military
0:29:35 > 0:29:38history, a bit of royal history, provenance on the back.
0:29:38 > 0:29:42Really disappointing - they are worth 30 quid!
0:29:42 > 0:29:46I found two others that were sold. I had never seen one before today.
0:29:46 > 0:29:50But there we are, it's worth about £30 for this watch.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54But then, we move on to this one, which is
0:29:54 > 0:29:58a nine carat gold case, original leather strap, and it's retailed
0:29:58 > 0:30:01by Garrard's, who were one of the leading retailers
0:30:01 > 0:30:03of jewellery and silver.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05It's something you would have had to have
0:30:05 > 0:30:07a decent amount of money to buy, to start with.
0:30:07 > 0:30:12So, we've got a bit of a mix - we've got 1880, 1890,
0:30:12 > 0:30:151910-1915 period,
0:30:15 > 0:30:20then we've got 1960s and here, we missed that one, 1930s.
0:30:20 > 0:30:26That's worth a fiver, that's worth 15, that's worth 30,
0:30:26 > 0:30:30that's worth 30. So, where are we up to? About 85, and that.
0:30:30 > 0:30:35- That's worth about another 60-100.- Oh, right.- All right?
0:30:35 > 0:30:37So, I think the right way of selling them is to put them
0:30:37 > 0:30:43- together as one lot, with an estimate of £150-£200.- Good.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46- Is that OK for you? - Yeah, that's fine.
0:30:46 > 0:30:48That was the one I was really excited about
0:30:48 > 0:30:52and that is the one that's worth probably the least.
0:30:52 > 0:30:54There we go, we all learn, day after day.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57That was the one we thought would be the most interesting.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59- Want to sell them? - Yes.- Yes.- Brilliant.
0:30:59 > 0:31:01150 as a reserve, I'd recommend.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04Well done, thank you for bringing them.
0:31:04 > 0:31:07Continuing the military theme, let's go back to David Fletcher,
0:31:07 > 0:31:10who has made his way into the tower circus.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- Hello, Eileen.- Hello, David.
0:31:12 > 0:31:15Thank you for bringing this group of medals in.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18Nothing tells us more about our nation's history,
0:31:18 > 0:31:21our military and social history, than medals.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23I just like you to talk me through them
0:31:23 > 0:31:27and explain why we've got two separate groups.
0:31:27 > 0:31:32These medals here are the First World War
0:31:32 > 0:31:35- and they were by my mother's uncle... - Awarded to him.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37They were awarded to him, yes.
0:31:37 > 0:31:41He had seen service in India and he had been to Egypt.
0:31:41 > 0:31:47- The World War II medals are his son's.- Right.- Jack, who was killed.
0:31:47 > 0:31:48He was a rear gunner in a Lancaster,
0:31:48 > 0:31:52and obviously they were awarded to him posthumously.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54And this letter refers to that.
0:31:54 > 0:32:00It's written to his mother by Margaret Ampthill, Lady Ampthill,
0:32:00 > 0:32:03who was Chairman of the Red Cross at the time, and in so many words,
0:32:03 > 0:32:05she expresses the fact, you know, your son has died
0:32:05 > 0:32:07and our sympathy goes out to you.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10Nothing you can do, the poor chap has gone
0:32:10 > 0:32:13- and he was only a young man.- He was.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16The First World War medals will be engraved with
0:32:16 > 0:32:18- the name of the recipient.- Yes.
0:32:18 > 0:32:21Let me just pick the star up first,
0:32:21 > 0:32:24because it's easier to read the inscription on these.
0:32:24 > 0:32:30- And this says Private W Stewart, 21st Lancers.- Yes.
0:32:30 > 0:32:33So, as far as collectors are concerned, that is a good regiment.
0:32:33 > 0:32:35And these medals were awarded
0:32:35 > 0:32:37to every soldier who survived the First World War
0:32:37 > 0:32:41and they were known colloquially as Pip, Squeak and Wilfred.
0:32:41 > 0:32:46He also received this medal for long service and good conduct,
0:32:46 > 0:32:49which was awarded after the war.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52- This group here belonged to his son? - They did, yes.
0:32:52 > 0:32:54So, these won't be inscribed,
0:32:54 > 0:32:56because Second World War medals were not.
0:32:56 > 0:33:00That can be a problem, because it means it might be difficult
0:33:00 > 0:33:03to establish provenance, because we would only have a particular
0:33:03 > 0:33:06person's word that they were awarded to the man or woman
0:33:06 > 0:33:09they were meant to have been awarded to.
0:33:09 > 0:33:12But in this case, we have lots of good provenance, really,
0:33:12 > 0:33:14so there is no problem with authenticity.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17What makes this collection particularly interesting
0:33:17 > 0:33:21is that it is a father and son collection, of course, but also,
0:33:21 > 0:33:26it contains an Air Crew Star, and they are rare and collectable.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29I mean, of course, your enthusiasm for a group of medals like this
0:33:29 > 0:33:33has to be massively tempered by the sadness that relates to them.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37Well, it is sad, but I've had them put away
0:33:37 > 0:33:41since they were left to me, for at least 15 years.
0:33:41 > 0:33:46And I'd like them to go to, perhaps a museum or something,
0:33:46 > 0:33:48where they will be displayed.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51Especially as we've got all the correspondence and things.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53All the supporting documentation is very important.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56I think, hope and believe that they will be bought by a museum,
0:33:56 > 0:33:58possibly even the RAF Museum or the regimental museum.
0:33:58 > 0:34:01Of course, we can't say that that would happen,
0:34:01 > 0:34:03but you know, there is every possibility it might.
0:34:03 > 0:34:07- Now, have you any idea as to what they might be worth?- Not really, no.
0:34:07 > 0:34:08I've not looked them up at all.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12Well, the jewel in the crown, I think, is the Air Crew Star,
0:34:12 > 0:34:14which is the most valuable of the medals.
0:34:14 > 0:34:18On its own, I think it is worth £200, £250 perhaps.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20I would rather hope that the collection...
0:34:20 > 0:34:22Well, I'm optimistic about this,
0:34:22 > 0:34:25I'm optimistic that the collection will make between £500 and £800.
0:34:25 > 0:34:27Right, gosh!
0:34:27 > 0:34:31What I would like to do is to put a reserve of £450 on them.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34Just tuck it in below the bottom estimate.
0:34:34 > 0:34:38But it is an important collection, so I think we'll have a good result.
0:34:38 > 0:34:41- That's lovely. Thank you very much. - I'll see you at the sale.
0:34:41 > 0:34:44A poignant collection of wartime history there.
0:34:44 > 0:34:46Now, let's go back to the circus ring,
0:34:46 > 0:34:49where James Lewis has found today's final item.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52So, tell me, are you a collector, are you a trader,
0:34:52 > 0:34:55are you a car-booter who's found it for a bargain 50p?
0:34:55 > 0:34:56Tell me the history.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00I've not got a lot of history, it's been in the family for a while,
0:35:00 > 0:35:03- but I don't know a lot about it. I am a bit of a hoarder...- OK.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07But it's time to unleash some of these things that I'm hoarding.
0:35:07 > 0:35:10- Righty-ho. Well, do you know much about it?- Nothing.
0:35:10 > 0:35:11I'm hoping you can tell me.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14Well, let's start with the trinket pot, for the dressing table,
0:35:14 > 0:35:17that is combined with a hat pin cushion.
0:35:17 > 0:35:18If we look around the edge,
0:35:18 > 0:35:22this is repousse work that is very much in the Dutch style.
0:35:22 > 0:35:29But I was very surprised to see a Chester hallmark there, for 1905.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33GN and RH - George Nathan and Ridley Hayes. Good local makers.
0:35:33 > 0:35:38So, we're talking about an Edwardian pincushion in the Dutch style.
0:35:38 > 0:35:42They've obviously just been inspired by a bit of Continental silver.
0:35:42 > 0:35:45The scrap value of the silver is next to nothing, it is
0:35:45 > 0:35:48a very thin oval band, so very little silver there,
0:35:48 > 0:35:52but there are lots of collectors for silver trinkets,
0:35:52 > 0:35:54and especially pincushions.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57So, what do you think will be affecting the value of this?
0:35:57 > 0:36:01- The weight?- What else? - The intricate figuring?- Yeah.
0:36:01 > 0:36:06I'm not sure about the pincushion, because it's worn a bit.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08Whenever you look at any object,
0:36:08 > 0:36:11the things that generally make its value are the market,
0:36:11 > 0:36:15how fashionable it is, whether it has anything intrinsically valuable
0:36:15 > 0:36:19like a scrap value to it, and whether it has any great provenance.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22Condition is the other thing. But in terms of pincushions,
0:36:22 > 0:36:27a bit of wear to the surface of the velvet is acceptable wear.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29If we just push this up,
0:36:29 > 0:36:33you'll see what a lovely plum colour velvet it would have been.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36But the thing that is important is this.
0:36:36 > 0:36:37Because as you polish,
0:36:37 > 0:36:42the first thing that is going to rub through is the noses on the figures,
0:36:42 > 0:36:45the ends of the hats, and as it wears through,
0:36:45 > 0:36:47you see light through. So, if you hold it up,
0:36:47 > 0:36:50if you can't see any pinholes of light,
0:36:50 > 0:36:52then it's in good order.
0:36:52 > 0:36:58- If you can see holes coming through, it halves the value.- Right.
0:36:58 > 0:37:02All right? So, there we go, don't worry about a bit of rubbed velvet.
0:37:02 > 0:37:05With it, we have three solid silver...
0:37:05 > 0:37:06Oh, hang on.
0:37:06 > 0:37:11Correction, TWO solid silver and one silver plated thimble.
0:37:11 > 0:37:16Those are worth £10 each, that one is worth next to nothing.
0:37:16 > 0:37:18So, £20 worth of silver thimble.
0:37:18 > 0:37:23- What do you think the pincushion is worth?- No idea.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25OK, guys, you've been watching long enough.
0:37:25 > 0:37:30- What do you think that's going to make?- 120-150.- Oh, OK.
0:37:30 > 0:37:31115.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33You are all fairly close.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36100-150, I reckon is what it's worth.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39So, I think I might as well retire and leave it to you lot.
0:37:39 > 0:37:41So, I'm off!
0:37:41 > 0:37:43And we're off, too.
0:37:44 > 0:37:47Well, it has certainly been a busy day here in Blackpool,
0:37:47 > 0:37:50everybody has enjoyed themselves and we have all been entertained,
0:37:50 > 0:37:51and that's what it's all about.
0:37:51 > 0:37:54But right now, it's time to say goodbye to our magnificent
0:37:54 > 0:37:57venue today, as we head over to the auction room for the very last time.
0:37:57 > 0:38:01And here is the pick of the bunch of our experts' last choices.
0:38:01 > 0:38:05Time's up for the watches, brought in by Brian and Maureen.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10There's that collection of military medals.
0:38:12 > 0:38:15And these silver sewing trinkets.
0:38:26 > 0:38:28Welcome back to the auction room, here in Lytham St Annes.
0:38:28 > 0:38:31Let's join up with our experts and put the rest of our
0:38:31 > 0:38:34antiques to the test with auctioneer Jonathan Cook on the rostrum.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38And remember, if you are buying or selling at auction, there is
0:38:38 > 0:38:40commission to pay.
0:38:40 > 0:38:41Here, it is 15% plus VAT,
0:38:41 > 0:38:45and any other hidden costs like printing, storage or insurance.
0:38:45 > 0:38:47Factor that in, won't you, to the hammer price?
0:38:47 > 0:38:51So, without further ado, let's get going with our next lot.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54Well, they have been kept hidden away in a wardrobe for many
0:38:54 > 0:38:57years, they have now been liberated and can now see the light
0:38:57 > 0:39:00of day, a collection of watches belonging to Brian and Maureen.
0:39:00 > 0:39:02You freed them! The emancipation of the watches!
0:39:02 > 0:39:05Why did they get put in a wardrobe in the first place?
0:39:05 > 0:39:07One of those things, you put them away thinking,
0:39:07 > 0:39:09we'll sort them out, and you forget about them.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12What have we got, £150, maybe £200 for the watches?
0:39:12 > 0:39:14Yeah, it's a classic dealer's lot, this one.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17Do them all up, split them up and sell them again.
0:39:17 > 0:39:18But at least you managed to hang on to them,
0:39:18 > 0:39:20they are safe in the back of the wardrobe
0:39:20 > 0:39:23and hopefully there is £200 here in this lot. Good luck, Maureen.
0:39:23 > 0:39:27Collection of vintage watches, lots of them there.
0:39:27 > 0:39:32Bids of 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190,
0:39:32 > 0:39:38200. At 220. At 220 on the internet, any advance in the room?
0:39:38 > 0:39:41At £220, then, on the net at 220.
0:39:41 > 0:39:47- 240.- Gosh!- At £240. On the net at 240, any further interest?
0:39:47 > 0:39:50At 240, then, on the net at 240.
0:39:52 > 0:39:54- They've gone.- Fantastic. - A great result.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57That is a very good result, isn't it?
0:39:57 > 0:39:59We have to clear out the rest of what's hiding behind that wardrobe!
0:39:59 > 0:40:01Or under the bed, or in the cupboard.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04Well, thankfully, you found them, anyway.
0:40:04 > 0:40:08- You know, we didn't use them. - Well discovered.- Well discovered.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10Just goes to show the value of hidden treasure!
0:40:10 > 0:40:14Now, time for some pieces of silver.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17Our next lot is the silver pincushion with some thimbles,
0:40:17 > 0:40:20belonging to Jeanette. I think this is a cracking little lot.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22Back at the valuation day, there was
0:40:22 > 0:40:24no discussion within the valuation of a reserve.
0:40:24 > 0:40:28I know you've got in contact with the auction room
0:40:28 > 0:40:32- and you sensibly put £100 on, which is what James recommended.- Yes.
0:40:32 > 0:40:35I think the thing is, with something like that,
0:40:35 > 0:40:38- it's best to just put a safety net on it.- Of course.
0:40:38 > 0:40:40With silver at the moment, so much of the silver is
0:40:40 > 0:40:43selling for its scrap value, but it can go for very little.
0:40:43 > 0:40:45But having said that, this is so pretty,
0:40:45 > 0:40:48- it's in lovely condition, it's not old.- This won't go to melt.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51- No, it won't.- No, it's too worked, too beautiful.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53Let's do it, here we go.
0:40:53 > 0:40:56An Edwardian fine silver pincushion trinket box,
0:40:56 > 0:41:00decorated in high relief, together with three silver thimbles.
0:41:00 > 0:41:02Bids with me of £70,
0:41:02 > 0:41:05- any advance on 70?- Well, straight in, maybe a little bit more?
0:41:05 > 0:41:1285, 90. 95, 100. 110, at £110, 120, 130, 140.
0:41:12 > 0:41:15At 140 on the net. 150.
0:41:15 > 0:41:18150 in the room, lady's bid at 150.
0:41:18 > 0:41:19Are we all stuck?
0:41:19 > 0:41:24160. At 160 then, on the internet at 160.
0:41:24 > 0:41:26Any advance on 160? 165, if it helps?
0:41:28 > 0:41:33165, at 165 in the room, any advance on 165?
0:41:33 > 0:41:37At £165, are we all sure?
0:41:37 > 0:41:40- Well done. Quality, see? Quality. - You were right, weren't you?
0:41:40 > 0:41:42It's lovely, very pretty.
0:41:42 > 0:41:44- Are you going to treat the granddaughter now?- Yes.
0:41:44 > 0:41:47Time for the final lot on today's show.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50Next up, a fascinating group of World War medals
0:41:50 > 0:41:51belonging to Eileen.
0:41:51 > 0:41:55Eileen, there is one very rare medal amongst these, do you know that?
0:41:55 > 0:41:57- Yes.- The Air Crew Star.
0:41:57 > 0:42:00The Air Crew Star is rare in itself, this was awarded to
0:42:00 > 0:42:04the rear gunner, and the poor chap was killed on a bombing raid
0:42:04 > 0:42:06over Germany, and that makes it even rarer.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08Let's find out what the bidders think,
0:42:08 > 0:42:10it's going under the hammer now.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12Set of medals, four of them in total, lots of commissions,
0:42:12 > 0:42:15lots of interest,
0:42:15 > 0:42:16start them off at £400.
0:42:16 > 0:42:21420, 440, 460, 480, 500.
0:42:21 > 0:42:27- We're in now, look, straight in at £500.- 550, 600, 650,
0:42:27 > 0:42:31at £650, any advance on 650?
0:42:31 > 0:42:35Gent's bid in the room at 650, are all done at 650?
0:42:35 > 0:42:37At £650 then.
0:42:37 > 0:42:43700. 750. At £750. Any advance on 750?
0:42:43 > 0:42:44I'm nervous for you!
0:42:44 > 0:42:49At 750 in the room, all sure? At 750 to sell.
0:42:51 > 0:42:54- They've gone at the top end, £750. - That's very good.
0:42:54 > 0:42:57I had hoped they would make a bit more,
0:42:57 > 0:42:59but I'm pleased with that, we did a lot of research on them,
0:42:59 > 0:43:01we discussed them pretty fully, didn't we?
0:43:01 > 0:43:05- I think that's about right. - Are you happy?- That's good, yes.
0:43:11 > 0:43:13The auction's finished and everyone has gone home happy,
0:43:13 > 0:43:15that's what it's all about.
0:43:15 > 0:43:16If you've been bitten by the bug
0:43:16 > 0:43:19and fancy seeing what your antiques are worth, we would love to see you.
0:43:19 > 0:43:22Bring them along to one of our valuation days and hopefully,
0:43:22 > 0:43:24we are coming to a town very near you soon.
0:43:24 > 0:43:28But for now, from Lancashire, it's goodbye from all of us.