0:00:02 > 0:00:04I'm 60 metres below ground on a lake of drinkable water
0:00:04 > 0:00:06that's 9.5 metres deep.
0:00:06 > 0:00:08So, where am I, you may be asking?
0:00:08 > 0:00:11Well, I'm in Cornwall's only slate mine.
0:00:11 > 0:00:12And later on in the show,
0:00:12 > 0:00:15I'll be delving into the county's mining history.
0:00:15 > 0:00:17Welcome to "Flog It!"!
0:00:38 > 0:00:40Today's show comes from Cornwall,
0:00:40 > 0:00:43whose beaches attract more than four million people every year.
0:00:44 > 0:00:47I have a special affection for this county
0:00:47 > 0:00:49because this is where I was brought up, in Falmouth,
0:00:49 > 0:00:52and that's where we're heading today.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59- Dydh da. Now, there's a bit of Cornish, What does that mean?- Hello.
0:00:59 > 0:01:00Hello, and hello to everyone here.
0:01:00 > 0:01:02- Anyone know anything else?- Yeah.
0:01:02 > 0:01:03- SHE SPEAKS CORNISH - Get on with it.
0:01:03 > 0:01:06That's what I'm doing right now. Thank you.
0:01:06 > 0:01:09We are here at the National Maritime Museum, Cornwall, which houses
0:01:09 > 0:01:12some of the county's finest maritime heritage
0:01:12 > 0:01:16and, for one day only, we've taken it over as our valuation day venue.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19The whole town has turned out, laden with antiques and collectables, and
0:01:19 > 0:01:22they're all here to ask our experts that all-important question,
0:01:22 > 0:01:25which is?
0:01:25 > 0:01:27- ALL:- What's it worth?
0:01:27 > 0:01:30They're not slow in coming forward, here in Cornwall,
0:01:30 > 0:01:31and, as the queue builds, outside,
0:01:31 > 0:01:35Philip Serrell has already had an offer he can't refuse.
0:01:35 > 0:01:37Would you like to see my tortoise?
0:01:37 > 0:01:41- That's the best offer I've had all day, darling.- There he is.
0:01:41 > 0:01:43And inside, hoping to strike the right chord, is Caroline Hawley.
0:01:46 > 0:01:48Oh, wow. If you can play it,
0:01:48 > 0:01:51you might give me a little tune when we get in there.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54What did I say that for!
0:01:54 > 0:01:56So, let's get those doors open,
0:01:56 > 0:01:58get everyone in and get the valuations underway.
0:02:00 > 0:02:02And while everyone settles down,
0:02:02 > 0:02:04let's take a peek at what's coming up.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11Today's journey is an emotional one, with feelings of passion.
0:02:11 > 0:02:13Well, she's made my day. Absolutely.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16I've seen lots of lovely things today,
0:02:16 > 0:02:18but she's one of my favourites.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22- And desire.- We see lots and lots of things on "Flog It!",
0:02:22 > 0:02:24but I'd like to own that.
0:02:24 > 0:02:26But it could all end in tears at the auction.
0:02:26 > 0:02:29- Are you OK? - SHE SOBS
0:02:29 > 0:02:32Aw. Are you OK?
0:02:33 > 0:02:37Good luck, everyone. And thank you for turning up. I really mean that.
0:02:37 > 0:02:39What a turnout we've got today.
0:02:39 > 0:02:42And hopefully, someone's journey starts right here, right now.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45It could be you. It could be you that has something valuable
0:02:45 > 0:02:47that goes off to auction and makes a small fortune.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50That's what this show is all about
0:02:50 > 0:02:53and it's our experts' job to find it, so let's get started.
0:02:53 > 0:02:55Philip was on the lookout for something local,
0:02:55 > 0:02:58but will Roger's two copper pieces fit the bill?
0:03:00 > 0:03:02- Roger, how are you? - Fine, thank you, Philip.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05This smacks of a man who's got an interest in bits of copper.
0:03:05 > 0:03:07Well, being Cornish, yes.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09Well, there's a reason for that, isn't there?
0:03:09 > 0:03:12Because there are a number of really good arts
0:03:12 > 0:03:16and crafts schools around the country, where metalware was
0:03:16 > 0:03:20produced, and the one that you always think of in Cornwall
0:03:20 > 0:03:22- is Newlyn School...- Hmm.
0:03:22 > 0:03:26- ..and the man who you associate most is John Pearson.- Exactly.
0:03:26 > 0:03:30And John Pearson did fish, didn't he? And he did galleons.
0:03:30 > 0:03:33And, as well as the Newlyn stamp, sometimes there's a JP monogram,
0:03:33 > 0:03:36- isn't there?- That's on my pieces.
0:03:36 > 0:03:39- So, you're a collector?- Yes.- So, you know exactly what you've got?
0:03:39 > 0:03:42So, Roger, when you refer to an industry, these things weren't
0:03:42 > 0:03:45- made in factories, were they?- No, they were made by simple fisherman.
0:03:45 > 0:03:49They'd learned to make the copper from a man called McKenzie,
0:03:49 > 0:03:52so they could earn some money on the days that they couldn't fish.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55- Who was McKenzie? - He set up the Newlyn Copper School.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58So, really, this is a thing that fisherman did as
0:03:58 > 0:04:01almost like a bit of pocket money, as a second industry, in a way.
0:04:01 > 0:04:06- Yes.- But I also know that Newlyn collectors, of which you are one,
0:04:06 > 0:04:09- they want it stamped Newlyn, don't they?- Ideally, yes.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12So, here is the question - where's the stamp?
0:04:12 > 0:04:14- There isn't one. - There isn't one and let me guess
0:04:14 > 0:04:17that the reason why you're selling it is because
0:04:17 > 0:04:20- it hasn't got Newlyn stamp on it. - Basically, yes. And this is too big.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24The rest of my Newlyn collection are smaller trays, coffee jugs.
0:04:24 > 0:04:29- When was the Newlyn factory set up? - 1884-1885.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32And did they always stamp their wares?
0:04:32 > 0:04:34From about 1904-1907.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37- So, there's a 20-year period where they didn't stamp stuff?- Exactly.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39So, there is a chance...
0:04:39 > 0:04:41I mean, hand on heart, do you think this is by Newlyn?
0:04:41 > 0:04:43Hand on heart, I believe it is because it's shown
0:04:43 > 0:04:47- all the characteristics of Newlyn. - Which is what?
0:04:47 > 0:04:50The scores on the lid and on the bottom of the handle,
0:04:50 > 0:04:52and also the wave form and the rivets.
0:04:52 > 0:04:56But the key thing for you is that it don't say Newlyn.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58Basically, yes.
0:04:58 > 0:05:01- And that's the key, isn't it?- Well, no. The key is it just doesn't fit
0:05:01 > 0:05:05- in with the rest of the collection. - All right, Roger. But for me, it has to say Newlyn.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07And I think you've got to pitch this as though it isn't Newlyn
0:05:07 > 0:05:10and if people get excited about it, then it might go and take off.
0:05:10 > 0:05:12But what I think is really interesting is,
0:05:12 > 0:05:15at the outset of this little chat, I said there were little
0:05:15 > 0:05:19schools all around the country,
0:05:19 > 0:05:21and, in my eyes, you've got a Cornish, hopefully, example
0:05:21 > 0:05:25here from Newlyn but now you've gone to completely the other end of the
0:05:25 > 0:05:29country, and we go up to the Lake District in Keswick, and you've got
0:05:29 > 0:05:32KSIA, which is the Keswick School of Industrial Arts and this is,
0:05:32 > 0:05:36in a way, it's another one of these enclaves where
0:05:36 > 0:05:40metalware was produced and again, highly collectable, isn't it?
0:05:40 > 0:05:44And what I think's lovely about this is that you've got
0:05:44 > 0:05:47the stamp here and what that little KSI does,
0:05:47 > 0:05:50it converts a copper tray that's probably worth about two quid
0:05:50 > 0:05:53into something that's probably worth about £20-£40.
0:05:53 > 0:05:57Now, the way I would sell these is I would sell them as one lot
0:05:57 > 0:05:59and hope to appeal to a metalware collector.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03I would sell it as a Keswick School of Industrial Arts oval dish
0:06:03 > 0:06:08and then I would call this a copper jug, probably from Newlyn.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10- I don't know that we can say definitely, can we?- We can't.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14And I think we should put an estimate on the two for £60-£90
0:06:14 > 0:06:17and a fixed reserve of 50 quid. Do you think I'm right on price?
0:06:17 > 0:06:18- I think you are right on price.- OK.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20Well, let's keep our fingers crossed
0:06:20 > 0:06:22and let's hope that two people in the sale room take
0:06:22 > 0:06:26a shine to our so-say bit of Newlyn.
0:06:26 > 0:06:28The lack of markings on the jug
0:06:28 > 0:06:30makes the stamped Keswick piece more appealing.
0:06:33 > 0:06:36Caroline has found a fine figure with plenty of panache,
0:06:36 > 0:06:40but does this have the markings of Provenance?
0:06:40 > 0:06:42- Lovely to meet you, Linda. - Thank you.
0:06:42 > 0:06:46And your gorgeous, gorgeous girl. Absolutely delightful.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49Tell me, how on earth did you acquire her?
0:06:49 > 0:06:54Well, a friend of mine had a friend who was a luvvie, Dame Anna Neagle.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58And the story is that when Anna Neagle was performing
0:06:58 > 0:07:01in Peter Pan, she had this made for her, or she bought it for her.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03I don't whether she had it made or she bought it
0:07:03 > 0:07:06because she thought it kind of looked like Peter Pan
0:07:06 > 0:07:09and, when Anna Neagle died, it was returned to this lady.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12And when she died, I acquired it through my friend.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15Gosh, Linda, you are so lucky.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18I think she's absolutely adorable.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21And I've had a really good look, back to front, all ways round -
0:07:21 > 0:07:23she's not marked at all.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25I would expect to see the name
0:07:25 > 0:07:29of Joseph Lorenzo, Ferdinand Price,
0:07:29 > 0:07:31Chiparus - one of those makers.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34- That's unfortunate, isn't it? - Unfortunately, there's none of them.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38But it doesn't take away from the fact that she is a beautiful
0:07:38 > 0:07:40gold-painted bronze figure.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43She's got a little bit of damage down her cheek,
0:07:43 > 0:07:46but she is absolutely beautiful.
0:07:46 > 0:07:49On this Onyx base. She's exactly what everybody wants.
0:07:49 > 0:07:53There's a bit of damage to the paint, in one or two areas,
0:07:53 > 0:07:55but nothing horrific.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59And, in my opinion, she's much better than a totally naked female.
0:07:59 > 0:08:03I think she's coquettish, a bit of a luvvie.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06The movement in this figure, the style.
0:08:06 > 0:08:11- She is just lovely and I'm sorry it's not signed...- So am I...
0:08:11 > 0:08:15But, all day long, she's going to get £300-£500, all day long.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18But I wouldn't be the slightest bit surprised
0:08:18 > 0:08:21if she didn't get £1,000 either.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23So, I think, for auction,
0:08:23 > 0:08:27- we'll put her with an estimate of between £300-£500.- OK.
0:08:27 > 0:08:28- Are you happy with that?- Absolutely.
0:08:28 > 0:08:32- And then I think we'll see what happens.- Can we have a reserve?
0:08:32 > 0:08:33Of course we can have a reserve!
0:08:33 > 0:08:35What would you like? Bottom estimate? £300?
0:08:35 > 0:08:37Whatever you think.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40Well, I think if we put a reserve of £300,
0:08:40 > 0:08:43just to stop her falling through the safety net.
0:08:43 > 0:08:44- There's no danger of that.- No.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47She is a delight. She's made my day.
0:08:47 > 0:08:51Absolutely. I've seen some lovely things today,
0:08:51 > 0:08:54but I think she's one of my favourites.
0:08:54 > 0:08:56- Thank you, Linda.- Thank you.
0:08:56 > 0:08:58If it had a Joseph Lorenzo mark, there would be no
0:08:58 > 0:09:02need for some pixie dust to make this one fly.
0:09:02 > 0:09:07Now, I've spotted an appealing piece of local art, brought in by Kate.
0:09:07 > 0:09:12Kate, this is absolutely charming. A little study of William Holman Hunt.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15I think, the greatest of all the Pre-Raphaelite painters.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18It's a little watercolour, highlighted with French white.
0:09:18 > 0:09:22- How did you come by this?- I bought it in a lot about ten years ago...
0:09:22 > 0:09:25- Did you?- ..with a sketchbook.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27What else was in the sketchbook? Can I ask?
0:09:27 > 0:09:32Not another Holman Hunt, but a lot of little studies by Ralph Todd.
0:09:32 > 0:09:34It's a Ralph Todd, isn't it?
0:09:34 > 0:09:36And there's a little monogram, Ralph Todd.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39A well-respected artist from the Newlyn School,
0:09:39 > 0:09:42but he struggled to make a living from his art
0:09:42 > 0:09:46- and I don't understand why because look at the quality of that.- Quite.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49This is Holman Hunt, who died in 1910.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52I think Todd died in 1932, didn't he?
0:09:52 > 0:09:55Why are you thinking of selling this now?
0:09:55 > 0:09:59It was part of a lot. Other elements of it, I'm keeping.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03But that and another portrait, I just want to sell.
0:10:03 > 0:10:07Do you mind me asking you what you paid for this sketchbook?
0:10:07 > 0:10:10- Ooh! That's a cheeky question. - OK. OK.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12Well, I think Todd's work, a little study like this,
0:10:12 > 0:10:16he'd quite easily get £100 to £160-70, but I think,
0:10:16 > 0:10:20because of the subject matter, William Holman Hunt, the great
0:10:20 > 0:10:22Pre-Raphaelite artist, I think, because of
0:10:22 > 0:10:27the subject matter, £200-£300.
0:10:27 > 0:10:29- Fantastic.- Happy with that?
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- Very much.- Is that a good return on that sketch?- It is.
0:10:32 > 0:10:37In fact, Ralph Todd had a son called Arthur Ralph Middleton Todd,
0:10:37 > 0:10:40who was also a highly accomplished Newlyn artist.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44Now, I wonder what's under that box.
0:10:44 > 0:10:45Hi, Philip.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48- Pleased to meet you, Philip. - You're...?- Peter.- Peter.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- That's not really a Cornish lilt there, is it?- No.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53I'm afraid I'm a Mancunian.
0:10:53 > 0:10:55- Oh, I shouldn't apologise for being a Mancunian.- Not at all.
0:10:55 > 0:10:58- I'm quite proud of that. - And what brought you down here?
0:10:58 > 0:11:00- Well, I came in as a merchant seaman.- Really?
0:11:00 > 0:11:04In the '60s, and I met the wife and the rest is history.
0:11:04 > 0:11:07That is fantastic. And you've brought me a purple box.
0:11:07 > 0:11:09With a secret underneath, I think.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11- Do I had to lift it up? - You have to lift it.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13- You've got to make sure it doesn't dash away.- Oh!
0:11:13 > 0:11:14That's lovely, isn't it?
0:11:14 > 0:11:18- So, tell me about the tortoise. Does he have a name?- Well, not really.
0:11:18 > 0:11:20To me, well, "Doorstop" was his most. And perhaps "Damn"
0:11:20 > 0:11:22when you caught your toe on it, now and again.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24How long have you had it?
0:11:24 > 0:11:26I've had it several years, but it's been in the family.
0:11:26 > 0:11:28My stepfather had it.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31He was a Canadian champion wrestler, believe it or not!
0:11:31 > 0:11:32- Wrestler?- He was a wrestler.
0:11:32 > 0:11:34Was he one of those television things
0:11:34 > 0:11:36that Kent Walton used to talk about?
0:11:36 > 0:11:39- No, no. He was born in 1898. - Oh, right.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41So, he was mid-20s between the wars.
0:11:41 > 0:11:44What we're assuming is that he picked this up on his travels,
0:11:44 > 0:11:48and then eventually he passed away and my mother gave it to me.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52- And you don't want it?- Well, I can't say it has a sentimental attachment.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55So you thought you'd come along to "Flog It!" and see if you could
0:11:55 > 0:11:58- flog a tortoise? - Exactly.- So, how old is it?
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- Circa 1900, I would have thought. - And what is it made of?
0:12:01 > 0:12:04To be honest, all these years I thought it was brass,
0:12:04 > 0:12:07- and apparently it's turned out to be...- Bronze.- Bronze.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09- Shall we turn it over and see what it says?- Love to.
0:12:09 > 0:12:14So, there's a little mark just here, which says, "Made in Austria",
0:12:14 > 0:12:18and that would date it to around about 1900, as you say.
0:12:18 > 0:12:19And there's a B, here,
0:12:19 > 0:12:23and a great exponent of cold painted bronzes was a man called Bergman.
0:12:23 > 0:12:25This may or may not be by him,
0:12:25 > 0:12:28but certainly, just on the tail, there's a B and a shield.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30So, let's hope it's by Bergman.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33In terms of value, it's an interesting one because
0:12:33 > 0:12:36I think he's quite fun. I think anybody would look at this
0:12:36 > 0:12:39and think this is worth £200-£400,
0:12:39 > 0:12:42and I think it is worth £200-£400,
0:12:42 > 0:12:45and that, in my opinion, would be a sensible estimate for it.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48And I think you should put a reserve of it of £200.
0:12:48 > 0:12:49There is a "but" coming.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53The "but" is, it wouldn't surprise me if it made possibly £800,
0:12:53 > 0:12:56possibly a little bit more. It wouldn't surprise me.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59I think you need to put a fixed reserve of £200.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01- How does that sound? - That sounds wonderful.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03And what would you do with the money?
0:13:03 > 0:13:05Well, obviously, I'd better do mother right -
0:13:05 > 0:13:07she's got to make sure she has a...
0:13:07 > 0:13:08and then put the other half to see to.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11Then what's left, I might buy something to go fishing with.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13- I might buy a new fishing rod. - A new fishing rod?
0:13:13 > 0:13:17Well, let's hope that Terry the tortoise goes and does really well.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19And do you know what? We've seen lots and lots of things
0:13:19 > 0:13:22on "Flog It!" and not all of them would I like to own,
0:13:22 > 0:13:23but I'd like to own that.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26Bergman is a big name for collectors,
0:13:26 > 0:13:28so, if the auction house confirms that stamp,
0:13:28 > 0:13:32it could add even more value to the tortoise.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34We are now halfway through our day
0:13:34 > 0:13:38and you have just seen the first items ready to go off to auction.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41I've got my favourites, you have probably got yours,
0:13:41 > 0:13:43but let's find out what the bidders think.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45While we're going over to the auction room, here's a quick
0:13:45 > 0:13:49recap of all the items that are going under the hammer.
0:13:49 > 0:13:53Roger's copper jug and Keswick tray should attract some attention.
0:13:57 > 0:14:00This fine-looking Art Deco figure is certain to fly.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07And what will the collectors make of the portrait of English painter
0:14:07 > 0:14:09William Holman Hunt?
0:14:12 > 0:14:16And, with a steady pace, will this tortoise be a winner in the auction?
0:14:19 > 0:14:22We are heading to the town of Lostwithiel, which is believed
0:14:22 > 0:14:24to have taken its name from the old Cornish meaning
0:14:24 > 0:14:26"the place at the tail of the forest."
0:14:29 > 0:14:32There aren't as many trees now, but, luckily for us,
0:14:32 > 0:14:35there is Jeffrey's Auction House
0:14:35 > 0:14:37and Ian Morris has the gavel in his hand.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41Don't look so sad. Anything can happen in an auction room
0:14:41 > 0:14:44and, I tell you what, you could pick up a few bargains as well.
0:14:44 > 0:14:48If you are thinking of selling, there is commission to pay.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52Here it's 15% plus VAT, but it varies from sale room to sale room,
0:14:52 > 0:14:55so check the details that are printed in the catalogue.
0:14:55 > 0:14:56Ask a member of staff.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59Don't get caught out, or you could be disappointed.
0:14:59 > 0:15:01First up, this copper jug and tray.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03Over the 14 years on the show,
0:15:03 > 0:15:06we've seen plenty of Newlyn copper and Keswick School, and we have
0:15:06 > 0:15:09two items right now going under the hammer, belonging to Roger.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12One is definitely Keswick, the other - the jury's out.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15OK, so you're selling this cos you don't think it's Newlyn either,
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- do you?- It doesn't fit in with the rest of the collection.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20The rest of the collection is fairly small
0:15:20 > 0:15:21and, of course, it's a very high piece.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Yes, I personally don't think it is Newlyn
0:15:23 > 0:15:25and I think Ian's in the same school of thought.
0:15:25 > 0:15:27It's not catalogued as Newlyn.
0:15:27 > 0:15:29But, look, the Keswick piece will definitely fly,
0:15:29 > 0:15:31so thank you for bringing that in
0:15:31 > 0:15:34because we get an opportunity to talk about Newlyn as well.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36What I think is lovely is that here we are, in Cornwall,
0:15:36 > 0:15:39the piece that's going to sell this is the Keswick bit.
0:15:39 > 0:15:43- There isn't a saleroom further away from Keswick than here, is there? - Not really, no!
0:15:43 > 0:15:45Anyway, good luck. And hopefully, all the proceeds
0:15:45 > 0:15:48will go to purchasing another piece of Newlyn.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- Definitely.- We love the collectors. We love investing in antiques -
0:15:51 > 0:15:52that's what it's all about.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55And right now, hopefully, we're going to sell a couple. This is it.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58Keswick copper. Also with a crafted copper jug.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01The jug and the tray, I've got four bids on here
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- and I've got to start at £90. - Yes.- £90, I'm bid.
0:16:04 > 0:16:07At £90. 95. £100. 110.
0:16:07 > 0:16:10At £100, the bid's on the book. 110 anywhere?
0:16:10 > 0:16:14At £100. Done. Going. At £100.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18£100. That hammer's gone down. Job done!
0:16:18 > 0:16:20- Super.- Super.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- Proper job.- Proper job. Yeah.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25A good result for Roger.
0:16:25 > 0:16:30Now, Caroline has some news about this sculptured lady.
0:16:30 > 0:16:31Fingers crossed.
0:16:31 > 0:16:35Well, Linda and Caroline, I'm expecting big things for this.
0:16:35 > 0:16:38- It is classic Art Deco. - Gorgeous. I did some research.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42- Oh, listen to this, Linda. - I've done some more research, Linda,
0:16:42 > 0:16:47since I've seen you and I'm almost 100% sure it is a Josef Lorenzl.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50- Right.- It's not signed, but I'm sure it is a Lorenzl figure.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53- That means highly sought after.- Yes. Yeah.- One of the best.
0:16:53 > 0:16:54Well, this is exciting, isn't it?
0:16:54 > 0:16:58What we're looking at here is what? Three to five?
0:16:58 > 0:16:59I think it's going to get 1,000.
0:16:59 > 0:17:01- You'd settle for 300, wouldn't you? - Yeah, I would.
0:17:01 > 0:17:05OK. Well, let's find out what it does, shall we?
0:17:05 > 0:17:08- Because, hopefully, we can get four figures.- OK.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10The Art Deco bronze, exotic dancer.
0:17:10 > 0:17:14Bids on the books means I've got to start at £420.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16- At 420.- Right. Mid-estimate.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20At 420. 440. 460. 480. 500.
0:17:20 > 0:17:23520. 550. At 550, the bid's on the book.
0:17:23 > 0:17:29- We're done? 580. 600. 620. - Gosh, that was late coming in.
0:17:29 > 0:17:31£600.
0:17:31 > 0:17:36Hammer's gone down! Yes! Just over the top end. £600. Fantastic.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39- That was a good result.- Yes, it was. I'm happy with that.- So am I!
0:17:39 > 0:17:41Are you happy? Oh!
0:17:41 > 0:17:45- Because, one minute ago, you said you'd be settling for 300.- I did.
0:17:45 > 0:17:46And now we've got six.
0:17:46 > 0:17:49- So, you know, that's really good. - Wonderful.
0:17:49 > 0:17:51Yeah. Thank you for bringing that in.
0:17:51 > 0:17:53Well, it seems the bidders also thought this figurine
0:17:53 > 0:17:55was by a famous sculptor.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59The provenance of this watercolour has also been under scrutiny
0:17:59 > 0:18:01since the valuation day.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04You've been doing a lot of detective work.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07I have been doing a little research and it's by his son,
0:18:07 > 0:18:11which was Arthur Ralph Middleton Todd. He was born in 1891.
0:18:11 > 0:18:14I don't know if that's going to affect the value.
0:18:14 > 0:18:18I think if anybody's interested in Todd and the family, hopefully...
0:18:18 > 0:18:21- It'll make no difference. - It'll make no difference.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23And it's beautifully executed.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26- Well, he was a good portrait painter.- Very good portrait painter.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29I think it's a wonderful piece of history.
0:18:29 > 0:18:30Yeah, and I'd love to own it.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33- I hope it has a good home. - So do I. So do I.
0:18:33 > 0:18:35We're going to find out right now. Good luck, Kate.
0:18:35 > 0:18:37Watercolour portrait, WH Holman Hunt.
0:18:37 > 0:18:40What do I say for that? £200 away? 150 away?
0:18:40 > 0:18:42£100, I'm bid. At £100.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46110 to get on. 110. 120. 130. 140.
0:18:46 > 0:18:49150. 160. 170.
0:18:49 > 0:18:55At 170, I'm bid. 180 now. At 170, I'm bid. 180 not... At £170.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57Got to pass, I'm afraid.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- Not enough. It did affect it, didn't it?- Yeah, probably.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04Yeah. Never mind. It's still a lovely thing to look at
0:19:04 > 0:19:05- and you get to keep it.- Indeed.
0:19:05 > 0:19:09- Well, thank you for bringing that in.- Not at all. Not at all.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12Although AR Todd may not be as well-known as his father,
0:19:12 > 0:19:15he's still highly regarded and his work has been
0:19:15 > 0:19:18exhibited in galleries like the Tate and the Royal Academy.
0:19:20 > 0:19:22Now, more good news.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25The auctioneer has confirmed this tortoise is a Bergman,
0:19:25 > 0:19:27as Philip thought.
0:19:29 > 0:19:33- The reserve isn't £200 any more. - It is...- £700.
0:19:33 > 0:19:37Right, that means we have to revise the estimate to 700-900 cos
0:19:37 > 0:19:40it's illegal to have a reserve higher than the bottom estimate.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43Was it your idea to say 700 or Ian's?
0:19:43 > 0:19:46Well, he was going to alter but not by that amount,
0:19:46 > 0:19:51but I found a site that was offering one in a retail position for £2,900.
0:19:51 > 0:19:55Right, OK. We're going to find out what it makes right now
0:19:55 > 0:19:57because it is going under the hammer. Here we go.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00Bergman, the Austrian bronze sculpture of a tortoise.
0:20:00 > 0:20:03A little Bergman stamp on its tail there. £200, I'm bid.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05At £200, at £200. 220 now.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09At £200. 220. 240. 260. 280.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11260. 280. Straight in.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- 380. 400. 420...- 400.
0:20:15 > 0:20:17450. 480. 500.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20520. 550. 580.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24600. 620. 650. 680.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27- 700. In the room. - £700.- £700, I'm bid.
0:20:27 > 0:20:31720? At £700. £700.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34Well done, Peter. I mean, you were spot on.
0:20:34 > 0:20:38£700, a fixed reserve, and it made it. That tortoise was pretty fast.
0:20:38 > 0:20:40- Congratulations. That's a lot of money.- Thank you.
0:20:40 > 0:20:43And I know you've got a new grandchild coming soon.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45- A new great-grandchild. - A great-grandchild!
0:20:45 > 0:20:48- You don't look old enough.- Oh, thank you very much.- Wow! Well, look,
0:20:48 > 0:20:52I think that's a really good little nest egg for your great-grandchild.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55- Lovely.- Don't you? - And thank you very much.- Pleasure.
0:20:58 > 0:21:0033.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02Well, there you are.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05Our first three lots done and dusted under the hammer,
0:21:05 > 0:21:07and three happy owners. It doesn't get much better than that
0:21:07 > 0:21:10and we're coming back here later on in the show,
0:21:10 > 0:21:12so don't go away.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15Now, we all know Cornwall is famous for its tin and its copper mines.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18The landscape is peppered with their ruins,
0:21:18 > 0:21:22but the county's also famous for its slate mines,
0:21:22 > 0:21:26believed to be some of the most durable and desirable in the world.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30So earlier in the week, I set off to dig up some facts for myself.
0:21:32 > 0:21:34The origins of Cornwall's tin
0:21:34 > 0:21:38and copper deposits date back to around 300 million years.
0:21:39 > 0:21:45Rising temperatures and powerful geological activity deep within the Earth's crust
0:21:45 > 0:21:50gave rise to granite, a hard, tough rock, containing many metals,
0:21:50 > 0:21:51including tin and copper.
0:21:53 > 0:21:57Cornwall's rich mineral resources have been exploited
0:21:57 > 0:22:01since medieval times, but it was the industrial advances of the 18th
0:22:01 > 0:22:04and 19th centuries that really sparked a mining boom.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07Steam power enabled deep shaft mining and the drainage
0:22:07 > 0:22:10from pumping of water from below the Earth's surface.
0:22:10 > 0:22:14Now, whilst tin and copper were the main focus of the industrial
0:22:14 > 0:22:18mining here, Cornwall had another natural resource to offer
0:22:18 > 0:22:20that was in great demand - slate.
0:22:22 > 0:22:26Slate has been mined here in Cornwall since medieval times
0:22:26 > 0:22:29and used primarily for roofing,
0:22:29 > 0:22:31paving and as a building material.
0:22:32 > 0:22:36The most famous of the county's slate mines is at Delabole,
0:22:36 > 0:22:40which is one of the oldest and deepest quarries in Europe.
0:22:40 > 0:22:44Slate from here was transported all over the world.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47The Delabole pit is still a working quarry today,
0:22:47 > 0:22:49but it's one of a few to survive.
0:22:57 > 0:22:58Some 300 years ago,
0:22:58 > 0:23:01there had been another slate quarry here at Carnglaze,
0:23:01 > 0:23:05near the village of St Neot, which is 17 miles from Delabole.
0:23:05 > 0:23:06Now, unlike its neighbour,
0:23:06 > 0:23:10the workers here did something quite unique.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13Instead of quarrying for slate on the Earth's surface,
0:23:13 > 0:23:14they went underground.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27Thankfully, much of the history of what was Cornwall's only
0:23:27 > 0:23:30underground slate mine has been preserved,
0:23:30 > 0:23:34not only by the past owner but the present owner, Caroline Richards,
0:23:34 > 0:23:38and she's got her own interesting story of how she acquired this mine.
0:23:38 > 0:23:40And Caroline is somewhere down there.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43I'm going to meet her and have a chat to her.
0:23:43 > 0:23:49This is amazing. I'm going 60m below ground and 150m into the hillside.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54- Caroline.- Hi.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57Pleased to meet you. I've got to say, I'm really jealous.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00How did you get to own your own slate mine?
0:24:00 > 0:24:03We were actually looking for woodland to restore
0:24:03 > 0:24:06- and we were looking to retire. - Where are the trees?
0:24:06 > 0:24:09- Outside. 6.5 acres of woodland... - OK.- ..with a cottage.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12- And that's what you bought. - That's what we bought
0:24:12 > 0:24:15and it turned out there was an old slate mine in the back garden,
0:24:15 > 0:24:18but even then, there wasn't lighting to all of it underground
0:24:18 > 0:24:20and so we still didn't realise the extent of it.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23- And have you learned a great deal about mining in Cornwall?- I have.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26I've had to learn an enormous amount along the way.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28I had a bit of a head start because I was a geography teacher
0:24:28 > 0:24:31and I was always interested in archaeology, geology,
0:24:31 > 0:24:32history, that sort of thing.
0:24:32 > 0:24:34So, how is slate formed?
0:24:34 > 0:24:38This particular slate started off about 400 million years
0:24:38 > 0:24:41ago as mud at the bottom of an ocean and then it got caught
0:24:41 > 0:24:44up at a time when the tectonic plates underneath it were closing.
0:24:44 > 0:24:48That gave a great deal of lateral pressure that turned it into slate.
0:24:48 > 0:24:50Mid Devonian slate is what it's called.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52That's what it is, is it, Mid Devonian?
0:24:52 > 0:24:55Cornwall varies from early Devonian through to Carboniferous.
0:24:55 > 0:24:59So, why did the miners change this from a quarry into a mine?
0:24:59 > 0:25:02By coming underground, they got to the better quality slate.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05It wasn't weathered, like it was outside.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09And because there were tin and copper mines starting to grow in the area as well,
0:25:09 > 0:25:12there were a lot of people with the skill set needed for going
0:25:12 > 0:25:15underground for slate miners at the same time.
0:25:15 > 0:25:16How safe was it working here,
0:25:16 > 0:25:19compared to the tin or the copper mines?
0:25:19 > 0:25:22Underground here, you've got solid slate, so it's good, strong rock.
0:25:22 > 0:25:26- You can see that it's unsupported. - It is, yes.- To a huge height.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29And it's very safe, very strong.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32In its heyday, how many men would have been working down here then?
0:25:32 > 0:25:36- We believe about 20 teams of five... - Gosh.- ..in total
0:25:36 > 0:25:40because there was such a constant demand for the product.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43Extracting the slate was a hard manual job,
0:25:43 > 0:25:47as an account in the 1890s by a visitor, Mr WP Watkins, shows.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54'They sat on three-legged stools and used mallets and curious chisels
0:25:54 > 0:25:58'with flat heads and wide triangular blades to dress the slate.
0:26:00 > 0:26:04'In the candlelight, they were only half visible.
0:26:04 > 0:26:07'And as they struck, the men maintained the rhythm.'
0:26:08 > 0:26:12One of the chambers also houses an underground lake of drinkable
0:26:12 > 0:26:15water that is 9.5m deep.
0:26:15 > 0:26:19So this is the only water supply you have to your house,
0:26:19 > 0:26:20so you drink this water?
0:26:20 > 0:26:22We do indeed and we don't have to treat it or anything -
0:26:22 > 0:26:24it's just drinkable straight as it is.
0:26:24 > 0:26:27It has to be tested every year, just to prove that it's drinkable.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30And does it stay at this level all the time?
0:26:30 > 0:26:33It keeps itself fairly static, but after heavy rainfall,
0:26:33 > 0:26:38it will rise maybe a few feet and then, by the end of a week maybe,
0:26:38 > 0:26:40it will have gone back to its normal level.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43Does your house have connections to the mine as well?
0:26:43 > 0:26:46It does indeed cos it wasn't a house at all,
0:26:46 > 0:26:48it was the engine house for the steam engine that was
0:26:48 > 0:26:52used for hauling the carts of slate up from the lower caverns here,
0:26:52 > 0:26:54from the lower chambers.
0:26:58 > 0:27:02Tin, copper and slate mines fell into decline in Cornwall
0:27:02 > 0:27:07by the 20th century due to larger deposits found overseas.
0:27:07 > 0:27:12This mine closed in 1903 and, as other mines shut down,
0:27:12 > 0:27:15the miners followed the work overseas.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18Today, the slate miners have long gone,
0:27:18 > 0:27:23but the caverns are still used for weddings, tours and concerts.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27The local history and the ambience of the mine also
0:27:27 > 0:27:31lives on through bands like Dalla, who sing in Cornish and English.
0:27:32 > 0:27:37SHE SINGS IN CORNISH
0:27:54 > 0:27:58# Hard is the stone
0:28:00 > 0:28:05# Hard is the ground
0:28:06 > 0:28:11# It's all that ever we knew... #
0:28:15 > 0:28:19- Hillary, tell me what the song's about.- OK.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22Yeah, it's called Dean Younk a Gernow, which means The Young Man of Cornwall,
0:28:22 > 0:28:26and it's actually all about a man leaving Cornwall
0:28:26 > 0:28:28and it's really symbolic of the men who left
0:28:28 > 0:28:33Cornwall in the 1800s really, when many, many miners left
0:28:33 > 0:28:35because of the mines closing down.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38But it's also very much about the women who actually remained
0:28:38 > 0:28:43and the hard life they had to deal with, raising children
0:28:43 > 0:28:46and keeping the household going when the men were actually abroad,
0:28:46 > 0:28:47you know, earning a bit of money,
0:28:47 > 0:28:50which they would then send home, most of them did.
0:28:50 > 0:28:51A real sentimental journey.
0:28:51 > 0:28:56Yes, absolutely. We live in Cornwall and we want to know about our own Cornish music,
0:28:56 > 0:28:59but also it's absolutely wonderful to sing in the Cornish language.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02HILLARY SINGS IN CORNISH
0:29:04 > 0:29:08# I see you no more
0:29:12 > 0:29:16# I'll be with you till the world ends
0:29:20 > 0:29:27# I'll be with you till the world ends. #
0:29:37 > 0:29:41Welcome back to our valuation day venue, the Maritime Museum Cornwall.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44The valuations here in Falmouth are still in full swing
0:29:44 > 0:29:48and Caroline is being put to the test.
0:29:48 > 0:29:50- So, Alison...- Yeah.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54..when I came to Falmouth today, I was expecting maritime items, I was
0:29:54 > 0:29:59expecting Newlyn School, and I was wondering about mystery objects,
0:29:59 > 0:30:03and you have brought the latter. Tell me what you know about this.
0:30:03 > 0:30:06It was given to my dad, who was a fencing master,
0:30:06 > 0:30:09and I think it was given to him because it looks like a sword.
0:30:09 > 0:30:14- But this is not a fencing sword, is it?- No. No, it's not.
0:30:14 > 0:30:17We think it is a club for hitting people with.
0:30:17 > 0:30:19Yes, I think I would agree with you on that one!
0:30:19 > 0:30:23And it looks like it hails from somewhere in the Pacific.
0:30:23 > 0:30:27- I was told Papua New Guinea. - Yeah. Or possibly Polynesia.
0:30:27 > 0:30:28Well, it's fascinating.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31And it's a bit of a dangerous item to have about.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34- How long have you had it? - It's been in the house as long
0:30:34 > 0:30:37as I can remember, so since I was very little,
0:30:37 > 0:30:38so easily 30 years.
0:30:38 > 0:30:42- I see. And it was around when you were a child.- Yes.
0:30:42 > 0:30:43- And was it used to control you?- Yes.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46My brother and I were told if we didn't behave then our dad
0:30:46 > 0:30:50- would hit us with what he called his bommyknocker.- Bommyknocker?!- Yes.
0:30:50 > 0:30:53- So this is a bommyknocker. - It's a bommyknocker.- Right.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55It's got a big piece knocked off.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58Was that knocked off on you, by any chance?
0:30:58 > 0:31:01No, it's always been like that, as long as I can remember.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03Well, I think something like this
0:31:03 > 0:31:07very much depends on its origin, its age...
0:31:07 > 0:31:12- I don't think it's been made as a tourist item.- No, I don't think so.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14For several reasons. One, you...
0:31:14 > 0:31:17- Can you see the binding at the top of it?- Yeah.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20That looks to me like it's been there a long time.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- That looks 19th century.- Yeah.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25It's a hardwood cane, which has split and then,
0:31:25 > 0:31:27take my word for it, it is very heavy.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28It is.
0:31:28 > 0:31:32The stone, which looks like some volcanic black sort of rock...
0:31:32 > 0:31:35- I think it might be, if that's where it's from.- Yeah.
0:31:35 > 0:31:39It's an amazing object. There's something I'm not sure about.
0:31:39 > 0:31:43I'm not sure how that stone is meant to attach to there.
0:31:43 > 0:31:45It doesn't look like it belongs.
0:31:45 > 0:31:49And I think this needs a great expert in this kind of thing
0:31:49 > 0:31:51to look at it.
0:31:51 > 0:31:55- OK.- Really. And it would need an awful lot more research.
0:31:55 > 0:31:58However, I think if this is put into a good auction, I think
0:31:58 > 0:32:02- the market will give you the market price of this thing.- OK.
0:32:02 > 0:32:05Have you ever given it any thought as to the value of it?
0:32:05 > 0:32:08I had a tentative value put on it a few years ago...
0:32:08 > 0:32:12It was suggested it might be a couple of hundred pounds' worth.
0:32:12 > 0:32:15It could be anywhere between £80 and £8,000.
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- Yeah.- And I don't know.
0:32:18 > 0:32:22- But are you prepared to give it a go on "Flog It!"?- Yeah, absolutely.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25And I will be as interested as you to see where this delightful
0:32:25 > 0:32:28- thing is going to go. - Yeah.- It is interesting.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31Thank you very much, Alison, for bringing it along.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33Thank you for having a look.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37I'll be very interested to see how that does later.
0:32:37 > 0:32:40Right then, Philip. Time's ticking.
0:32:40 > 0:32:42- Martin, how are you? - I'm well, thanks, Philip.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45- That's not a Cornish accent, is it? - No, no.- Where are you from?
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- I was born in Germany, actually, but Essex boy really.- Yeah?
0:32:48 > 0:32:50- Essex boy for many, many, many years.- Yeah?
0:32:50 > 0:32:52And tell me all about this then?
0:32:52 > 0:32:55Well, I've had it for probably 20 years
0:32:55 > 0:32:58and I've only worn it half a dozen times at a black tie do or
0:32:58 > 0:33:01something like that, when the circumstances were right.
0:33:01 > 0:33:03And it was my granddad's, but I don't use it, so...
0:33:03 > 0:33:08- You don't need a watch in Cornwall? - Who needs a watch in Cornwall?!
0:33:08 > 0:33:12I love brands and you've got there one of the world's great brands -
0:33:12 > 0:33:16Hermes. And it's interesting. Hermes were a French company,
0:33:16 > 0:33:19set up in the early part of the 19th century, and what's little
0:33:19 > 0:33:23known about them is they cut their teeth making saddlery.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25- Ah, no, I didn't know that. - Let's just have a good look at it.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28We've got Hermes written on the circular dial,
0:33:28 > 0:33:31- you've got a stamp there... - Yeah, I couldn't make out the mark.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35No, I can't either. But I would think this is probably 18 carat gold,
0:33:35 > 0:33:36but I can't guarantee that.
0:33:36 > 0:33:38Looks like you might have another minor stamp there
0:33:38 > 0:33:40- and there on the buckle.- Yeah.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42I would think there's every chance
0:33:42 > 0:33:44that this bracelet might be original.
0:33:44 > 0:33:45- I think it is.- And that's lovely.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47Might be shooting myself in the foot here,
0:33:47 > 0:33:53but I'm going to ask the question - you've got 1930s Hermes gold
0:33:53 > 0:33:56watch that belonged to your grandad and you're going to sell it.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59I think I'd much rather somebody was using it
0:33:59 > 0:34:01- and I think someone will love it. - Yeah.- You'd probably love it.
0:34:01 > 0:34:03You're looking at somebody who'd love it.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06I think it's absolutely fantastic. I love watches.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08And there's an interesting thing about this, you know.
0:34:08 > 0:34:11In this country, did you know, that on mechanical items,
0:34:11 > 0:34:13- you don't pay capital gains tax?- Oh, no.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15So, if this goes and makes £30,000,
0:34:15 > 0:34:18- there is no capital gains tax to pay.- Wow.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20Nice little take home bit there.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23But what I think is lovely about it, we're looking at a watch
0:34:23 > 0:34:27that's 80 or 90 years old, but that could be 1970s, couldn't it?
0:34:27 > 0:34:29It's timeless. Let's put it in the auction.
0:34:29 > 0:34:32I think that this is going to make between £200 and £400.
0:34:32 > 0:34:35I think we put a fixed reserve on it of £200
0:34:35 > 0:34:37and I think someone is really going to treasure that,
0:34:37 > 0:34:40- and what I really hope is I hope they keep that strap.- Yeah.
0:34:40 > 0:34:44- Absolutely. Fixed reserve. - Fixed reserve, £200.
0:34:44 > 0:34:46- Let's hope time flies.- Good.
0:34:46 > 0:34:49But first, it looks like Caroline knows a thing or
0:34:49 > 0:34:51two about strumming a tune.
0:34:51 > 0:34:53Hello, Richard, Annette.
0:34:53 > 0:34:56Tell me, how do you come to own this gorgeous guitar?
0:34:56 > 0:34:59We bought it from a chap down here, from Hull,
0:34:59 > 0:35:02who used to play in a group called the Ramrods.
0:35:02 > 0:35:07- Hang on, from Hull? The guy was from Hull?- Yeah.- I'm from Hull.- Yeah.
0:35:07 > 0:35:08How extraordinary.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11- And his group was the Ramrods. - The Ramrods.
0:35:11 > 0:35:15- And he moved down here, did he? - He moved down here to play.
0:35:15 > 0:35:18Right, and then why did he sell his guitar?
0:35:18 > 0:35:21- Oh, he got a bit hard up financially.- Financially.
0:35:21 > 0:35:24- His rent and all.- So the Ramrods weren't doing too well?
0:35:24 > 0:35:29- They was, for so many years... - They broke up after so many years.
0:35:29 > 0:35:32They played down here for a good four years for sure.
0:35:32 > 0:35:35- So, when did you buy it? - In the early '80s.
0:35:35 > 0:35:38And I would imagine, from the style of this, that he played in the '60s?
0:35:38 > 0:35:42- Yes.- Yes.- I have to say, I don't know the Ramrods,
0:35:42 > 0:35:45but I think this guitar is fabulous.
0:35:45 > 0:35:49It's a Fender Jaguar, dates from around 1960, '62,
0:35:49 > 0:35:51'63, that sort of period.
0:35:51 > 0:35:55- Yeah.- Look at this lovely faux tortoise shell scratch plate.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58And this is a sunburst model.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00And the original strap, by the looks of it,
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- lovely leather strap.- Could be.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- This has seen some action, hasn't it?- Oh, yes.- Do either of you play?
0:36:05 > 0:36:09He plays a little. Yes, he plays a little.
0:36:09 > 0:36:11What do you play, a little, Richard?
0:36:11 > 0:36:14A bit of country and western, that sort of thing. Three-chord stuff.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- Ooh! Would you serenade me with this?- No, no. I don't think so.
0:36:18 > 0:36:21Go on. Well, it's in very good condition.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25- Has it been in your home, just on display?- Yes.- Since the '80s.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29Oh, yes. And then we decided, time of life,
0:36:29 > 0:36:33to get rid of the things that our grandchildren are not interested in.
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- No.- So, that's one of the reasons why we wanted to...- How interesting.
0:36:37 > 0:36:38Well, I have to say,
0:36:38 > 0:36:42I don't know anything about the Ramrods, I shall look into that.
0:36:42 > 0:36:46But it's great, it's come from Hull, come all the way down to Falmouth.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49It's quite difficult to put a value.
0:36:49 > 0:36:52I mean, if this belonged to one of the Beatles, for instance,
0:36:52 > 0:36:56and we could attribute it to a certain rock star or band,
0:36:56 > 0:36:58it would make it very interesting.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01Yes.
0:37:01 > 0:37:05And they do sell, but I would say possibly to be safe,
0:37:05 > 0:37:07an estimate of 300 to 500.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10- Yes.- And would you want a reserve on that?
0:37:10 > 0:37:15- Yes, definitely.- Yeah. So if we put a reserve of 300.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- A fixed reserve of 300?- Yes.- Are you happy with that?- Yes.- Yes, yes.
0:37:19 > 0:37:22Well, I think it's lovely and we'll put it to auction then,
0:37:22 > 0:37:25300-500, fixed at 300.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28- Yeah.- Right, lovely. - Thank you, both of you.
0:37:28 > 0:37:29That guitar certainly rocks.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36That's it. It's time to say thank you
0:37:36 > 0:37:40and goodbye to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall,
0:37:40 > 0:37:43our magnificent host location, but it's not over yet.
0:37:43 > 0:37:46We've got some unfinished business to do in the auction room.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48We're putting our last three valuations to the test,
0:37:48 > 0:37:51so while we make our way over there, here's a quick recap, just to
0:37:51 > 0:37:55jog your memory, of all the items that are going under the hammer.
0:37:55 > 0:37:58We'll all be surprised to see how this ethnic wooden club
0:37:58 > 0:38:00does at auction.
0:38:04 > 0:38:08Time could change everything for this Hermes watch.
0:38:10 > 0:38:13And I'm sure this guitar will be music to someone's
0:38:13 > 0:38:14ears at the saleroom.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20As we return to the auction in Lostwithiel,
0:38:20 > 0:38:23- all eyes are on Ian Morris. - 300 away? 300 away.
0:38:23 > 0:38:26And first going under the gavel is Alison's unusual club.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29The auction room has done a little more research.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32We've all come to the conclusion it is Polynesian, OK?
0:38:32 > 0:38:35Question is, how collectible will this one be?
0:38:35 > 0:38:39We've seen some great results on the show before. Hard to value.
0:38:39 > 0:38:42- Really hard.- Hard to value.- Not many experts.- There's not many experts.
0:38:42 > 0:38:45And they keep it to themselves, so fingers crossed,
0:38:45 > 0:38:47they've come down here and viewed this. Here we go.
0:38:47 > 0:38:50For the battle club, probably Polynesian,
0:38:50 > 0:38:52£60 I've got on the book.
0:38:52 > 0:38:56At £60. £60. £70. £80. £90.
0:38:56 > 0:38:59£100. 110. 120. 130. 140.
0:38:59 > 0:39:03150. With you. At 150 at the back.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05At 150. 160 not? Are we done?
0:39:05 > 0:39:08At 150, going clubbing tonight. £150.
0:39:08 > 0:39:10- There we go.- £150.
0:39:10 > 0:39:13- That was good. I'm happy.- Yeah.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16That's £150, rather than sitting, gathering dust.
0:39:16 > 0:39:18So, yeah, I'm happy with that.
0:39:18 > 0:39:20That's the positive outlook on it, isn't it?
0:39:20 > 0:39:22Well done and thank you for bringing it in,
0:39:22 > 0:39:25because it really has given us a wonderful talking point.
0:39:25 > 0:39:27Thankfully, Alison got a good result.
0:39:27 > 0:39:30Going under the hammer right now,
0:39:30 > 0:39:33we have a 1930s gold Hermes watch, belonging to Martin, and we've just
0:39:33 > 0:39:37been joined by our expert, Philip, who would like to own this watch...
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- I must add. But you can't. - I know. I can't, I can't.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43I like it as well. It's a good brand. Was that granddad's watch?
0:39:43 > 0:39:45- It was my granddad's watch. - And you've never worn in.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48- Don't wear a watch. - Never wear a watch.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51So that's why you're selling. Fingers crossed we get the top end.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- OK? It is collectible.- Absolutely. - It's very collectible.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57We're going to find out what the bidders think. Here we go.
0:39:57 > 0:40:01The Hermes 18 carat gold wristwatch, brown leather strap.
0:40:01 > 0:40:03Can I say £200 to start me?
0:40:03 > 0:40:06£150 on the book. At 150. 150. Sorry?
0:40:06 > 0:40:10- 200. At 200. At 200 on the phone. - Right, we're there.
0:40:10 > 0:40:14220. 240. 250. 280. 300?
0:40:14 > 0:40:16300. 320. 350?
0:40:16 > 0:40:19350. 380. 400?
0:40:19 > 0:40:23- This is better.- 400. 400 on the phone. At £400. 20 anywhere?
0:40:23 > 0:40:27- Phone's taking it now. - At £400, I'm bid. 420 now.
0:40:27 > 0:40:28At £400.
0:40:28 > 0:40:32Yes, hammer's gone down. Top end of the estimate. Well done, Philip.
0:40:32 > 0:40:33- Well done.- Good price.
0:40:33 > 0:40:37Do you know what? That watch would look great on a modern lady today.
0:40:37 > 0:40:39I'm glad it's gone. Somebody's going to use it, which is...
0:40:39 > 0:40:42- You know, I don't use it.- That's the most important thing -
0:40:42 > 0:40:44- these things have to be used.- Good news.
0:40:44 > 0:40:48- Thanks, Phil.- Pleasure.- There's no point in keeping a beautiful
0:40:48 > 0:40:50piece like that in a drawer.
0:40:50 > 0:40:53Right now, it's time to rock the saleroom.
0:40:53 > 0:40:56Yes, literally, because we have a Fender Jaguar guitar going
0:40:56 > 0:40:59under the hammer, belonging to Richard and Annette.
0:40:59 > 0:41:00Great to meet you both.
0:41:00 > 0:41:04I've got to say, I had a Fender Jaguar. Do you play?
0:41:04 > 0:41:06No, only about three chords.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10Three chords, that's all you need to write a great rock song!
0:41:10 > 0:41:13- E, G, A. Smoke on the Water.- Yes!
0:41:13 > 0:41:16Look, I think 300 to 500 is sensible
0:41:16 > 0:41:19and let's hope se can find a young guy to earn a living from this
0:41:19 > 0:41:23guitar, write some songs, get in a band and earn a living.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26That's what it's all about. OK? Fingers crossed. Here we go.
0:41:26 > 0:41:29What's it for the Fender? Bit of interest in this as well.
0:41:29 > 0:41:33Three, four bids on the books. I've got to start at £420.
0:41:33 > 0:41:34At 42, hit the right note.
0:41:34 > 0:41:37- 420. 440.- Yes, this guy's buying it, look.
0:41:37 > 0:41:42500. 520. 540. 560. 580. 600.
0:41:42 > 0:41:46620. 640. 660. 680, with you. I'm out on the book.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49700. 720? 720.
0:41:49 > 0:41:50740.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53740. 760. 760. 780?
0:41:53 > 0:41:54- 800.- Telephone bid.
0:41:54 > 0:41:58At £800. 820, both in the room.
0:41:58 > 0:41:59850. 880.
0:41:59 > 0:42:02880. 900? 900. 920.
0:42:02 > 0:42:04- 920.- Are you all right?
0:42:04 > 0:42:06Hold on to me.
0:42:06 > 0:42:08980. 1,000. And 50?
0:42:08 > 0:42:10And 50. 1,100?
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- £1,050.- Are you OK?
0:42:12 > 0:42:15£1,050, gentleman in the glasses.
0:42:15 > 0:42:18At £1,050. At £1,050.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21- £1,050. Yes!- Golly!
0:42:21 > 0:42:23Those guys just missed it, look.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27Everyone loves an under bidder and thank those guys for that,
0:42:27 > 0:42:30because that guy had to pay £1,050 because those two wanted it.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33There's a tear in your eye. I can see it. There's a tear in your eye.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36- Yeah, yeah.- Wow! That is a lot of money, isn't it?
0:42:36 > 0:42:40- What are you going to do with that? - Grandchildren.- What are their names?
0:42:40 > 0:42:43- Lowenna, Alan and Brett. - Lowenna's a good Cornish name.
0:42:43 > 0:42:44Just a bit.
0:42:44 > 0:42:48And my granddaughter, she's expecting her first baby in June,
0:42:48 > 0:42:51so that's our first great-grandchild.
0:42:51 > 0:42:55- Aw!- Aw! How lovely. - What a way to end the show as well.
0:42:55 > 0:42:58Rock and roll! I hope you've enjoyed it as well.
0:42:58 > 0:43:01Join us again for many more surprises but, until then,
0:43:01 > 0:43:04from all of us here in Lostwithiel, it's goodbye, isn't it?
0:43:04 > 0:43:08It really is, with a big major chord. Da-nah!