Wolverhampton

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0:00:01 > 0:00:03Today we're in the Black County, a part of the

0:00:03 > 0:00:08West Midlands that used to be known as the workshop of the world because of its huge industrial output.

0:00:08 > 0:00:12Today, we're gonna add a splash of colour on "Flog It!"

0:00:12 > 0:00:14ALL CHEER

0:00:48 > 0:00:50The Black Country is made up of a group of towns

0:00:50 > 0:00:53that were known as red by night and black by day.

0:00:53 > 0:00:58That's because of all the foundries, collieries and lime kilns that were based here in the area.

0:00:58 > 0:01:04This region is particularly famous for its enamel work, its metalworks and its lock making.

0:01:11 > 0:01:14Well, I don't know if anything from the city's industrial past

0:01:14 > 0:01:17is gonna turn up here today at Wolverhampton Civic Hall.

0:01:17 > 0:01:21We've certainly got hundreds of people and plenty of objects.

0:01:21 > 0:01:22What have you all brought in?

0:01:25 > 0:01:28Everybody has been scouring their lofts and cupboards.

0:01:28 > 0:01:30Luckily, I'm not alone.

0:01:30 > 0:01:35I've got David Barby and Catherine Southern helping me to hunt out all the treasures.

0:01:35 > 0:01:38Let's get this huge crowd inside.

0:01:43 > 0:01:49While everybody is filing into their places, let us see what David's discovered.

0:01:49 > 0:01:51Trev, or is it Trevor?

0:01:51 > 0:01:53- Trev.- Trev's very friendly. I'd expect that from Wolverhampton.

0:01:53 > 0:01:55Do you live in Wolverhampton?

0:01:55 > 0:01:58- No, just down the road.- Right.

0:01:58 > 0:02:07I'm fascinated by this. In the nicest way, I want to strip this young lady, because it's been gilded.

0:02:07 > 0:02:09Where did you get it from?

0:02:09 > 0:02:13About three months ago, we've a friend who owns a local pub.

0:02:13 > 0:02:19I went down to this auction to buy some kitchen furniture and other furniture for his pub.

0:02:19 > 0:02:23In the catalogue, it said Doulton figurine.

0:02:23 > 0:02:25I thought, I'll put a bid on that.

0:02:25 > 0:02:29I've never been to an auction before in my life. She came up

0:02:29 > 0:02:31and I won the piece.

0:02:31 > 0:02:33Since then, I've been doing all sorts of research on her.

0:02:33 > 0:02:36It's absolutely fascinating.

0:02:36 > 0:02:38It is, so what have you found out?

0:02:38 > 0:02:43Well, she's Reflections of Childhood. Doulton-Lambeth.

0:02:43 > 0:02:46Around 1932.

0:02:46 > 0:02:49- That's right.- I've only ever seen

0:02:49 > 0:02:52a picture in one book.

0:02:52 > 0:02:55- She's just fascinating.- She wasn't gilded in that book, was she?

0:02:55 > 0:02:58- No, certainly not.- Somewhere in its history, somebody thought,

0:02:58 > 0:03:04oh, it's rather dull stoneware, let's give it a coat of gilt paint.

0:03:04 > 0:03:08It needs to be taken back to its stoneware body.

0:03:08 > 0:03:10Where would it be in the house?

0:03:10 > 0:03:17This would be even in the garden, or more likely in a conservatory with lots of flowering shrubs.

0:03:17 > 0:03:18It's a delightful figure.

0:03:18 > 0:03:23I love it. How astute of you to recognise its quality.

0:03:23 > 0:03:25- How much did you get it for? - £10.- £10, gosh.

0:03:25 > 0:03:28That is remarkably good value.

0:03:28 > 0:03:32If people saw it with that finish, they didn't realise its possibilities.

0:03:32 > 0:03:34It's a delightful figure.

0:03:34 > 0:03:37In fact, it's been somewhat protected with the gilt paint.

0:03:37 > 0:03:39Now, about price.

0:03:39 > 0:03:46If it had been stripped down and in its natural state, I could see 80 to 120.

0:03:46 > 0:03:50These conservatory and garden figures are sought after.

0:03:50 > 0:03:52You only paid £10 for it.

0:03:52 > 0:03:56I think what we've got to do is to allow it to run in the auction.

0:03:56 > 0:04:00- Fine.- In other words, it'll go for more than you paid for it, I guarantee that.

0:04:00 > 0:04:03- It'll be interesting to see what it goes up to.- Yes.

0:04:03 > 0:04:07In its state, covered in gold paint, you've got to find the right buyer.

0:04:07 > 0:04:12You have to find that purchaser that can see its potential

0:04:12 > 0:04:14and who's also got a nice conservatory as well.

0:04:14 > 0:04:15Absolutely.

0:04:22 > 0:04:25Nick, thank you for coming along today bringing a piece of Moorcroft.

0:04:25 > 0:04:29I always love to see Moorcroft. Where did you get this from?

0:04:29 > 0:04:34I've only had it 18 months and I bought it off a friend who's a collector.

0:04:34 > 0:04:41- Right.- He had a few pieces that he was selling and I thought what a nice colour.

0:04:41 > 0:04:46I bought it for the wife. I mean, we have lots of children around us.

0:04:46 > 0:04:52So I'm frightened that it will break, so

0:04:52 > 0:04:56Children and Moorcroft don't go together well, do they, I find.

0:04:56 > 0:04:59The time has come to sell it on.

0:04:59 > 0:05:01While it's still perfect.

0:05:01 > 0:05:03It's an unusual colour, isn't it? This nice sort of green.

0:05:03 > 0:05:09Often we see very vivid blues and other quite striking colours.

0:05:09 > 0:05:15To see this green is really quite unusual. It's probably 1950s in date.

0:05:15 > 0:05:18It's actually by Walter Moorcroft, rather than William Moorcroft.

0:05:18 > 0:05:23We can see there, that's the signature of Walter, rather than William.

0:05:23 > 0:05:27That's how we can date it to being slightly later, around 1950s.

0:05:27 > 0:05:29Do have any idea how much this is worth at auction?

0:05:29 > 0:05:34I think it's worth at least £200.

0:05:34 > 0:05:36Can I ask how much you paid for it from your friend?

0:05:36 > 0:05:40230-240.

0:05:40 > 0:05:47That sort of price. You'll probably looking at £300-£400 at auction.

0:05:47 > 0:05:51- I would probably put a reserve on of £200. Is that OK?- That's fine.

0:05:51 > 0:05:55You might find if it does sell for £200, you're losing out slightly.

0:05:55 > 0:05:59- Is that OK?- You'll make sure I don't.

0:05:59 > 0:06:02I'll certainly do my best. I hope we have some Moorcroft collectors.

0:06:02 > 0:06:04Thank you very much.

0:06:12 > 0:06:15What a superb watercolour.

0:06:15 > 0:06:17I focused on this when you walked across the room.

0:06:17 > 0:06:21I thought, I've got to grab hold of you and talk about it. What's your name?

0:06:23 > 0:06:25- Berbel.- Berbel. Where are you from?

0:06:25 > 0:06:27- From Germany.- What part of Germany?

0:06:27 > 0:06:30- Berlin.- How long have you been in Wolverhampton?

0:06:30 > 0:06:35I've been living around Wolverhampton for about 30 years.

0:06:35 > 0:06:37- 30 odd years? - Yes.- Where did you come across this?

0:06:37 > 0:06:44I bought that at a very small auction in Cannock.

0:06:44 > 0:06:47- About 35 years ago.- So you've had it quite a long time?

0:06:47 > 0:06:50I have. I've liked it.

0:06:50 > 0:06:54It appealed to me. It's a relaxing picture.

0:06:54 > 0:06:57- You can look at it. - You can escape, can't you?

0:06:57 > 0:07:00It's beautiful. All of this medium is painted in watercolour.

0:07:00 > 0:07:05It's on paper and I like the fact that the technique is slightly washed.

0:07:05 > 0:07:08- Right.- It's been washed out with a lot of water.

0:07:08 > 0:07:10It's slightly impressionistic.

0:07:10 > 0:07:14I love the Windsor, stickback chair, that hooped chair, and the red brick cottage.

0:07:14 > 0:07:17- It's a lovely summer scene.- Yes.

0:07:17 > 0:07:21The only thing that lets this down slightly is her face.

0:07:21 > 0:07:23I would like to see a little bit more detail on the face.

0:07:23 > 0:07:26- It's not there. - It is the style of painting.

0:07:26 > 0:07:29It's the washed-out style. Exactly.

0:07:29 > 0:07:32Can I ask you how much you paid for it in auction?

0:07:32 > 0:07:34Well, at that time £15.

0:07:34 > 0:07:37- £15, 30 odd years ago?- Yes.

0:07:37 > 0:07:40- It was still a lot of money, wasn't it?- It was.- One week's wages.- Yes.

0:07:40 > 0:07:42Let's take a look, shall we?

0:07:42 > 0:07:46The first thing to do is establish the artist.

0:07:48 > 0:07:50It's right there in the corner.

0:07:50 > 0:07:53You can just see it. Woodlock. I have

0:07:53 > 0:07:57to be perfectly honest with you, I haven't heard of this artist before.

0:07:57 > 0:08:01Let's look him up in the book. Here we've got an Art Sales Index.

0:08:02 > 0:08:04If I can show you this...

0:08:04 > 0:08:06If we look down, David Woodlock.

0:08:06 > 0:08:09Here we can see, British-born.

0:08:09 > 0:08:11He was born in 1842.

0:08:11 > 0:08:15He died in 1929. This is towards the end of his career.

0:08:15 > 0:08:17He had quite a long life, didn't he?

0:08:17 > 0:08:20He did, yes. Look at this, this is very interesting.

0:08:20 > 0:08:22He obviously liked to paint lots of cottages.

0:08:22 > 0:08:26Woman At Dawn, Tingleton village, Dorset, another cottage.

0:08:26 > 0:08:31Lady At Cottage Door, here's another one. It also gives the sizes, look.

0:08:31 > 0:08:367 by 10 inches. Now that's approximately 7 by 10 inches.

0:08:36 > 0:08:41They're all selling for around about £300 to £380.

0:08:41 > 0:08:47We can now build up a value of what his works have been sold for.

0:08:47 > 0:08:50- Right.- £300 to £400.

0:08:50 > 0:08:54- Are you happy with that? - Yes, I'm happy with that. - It's been a good investment.

0:08:54 > 0:08:56- It has.- And you've enjoyed looking at it?

0:08:56 > 0:08:59I have, yes. You're quite right, I have.

0:08:59 > 0:09:03I've just outgrown a bit, because I've seen it for such a long time.

0:09:03 > 0:09:05Shall we flog it, then? Shall we put it in the sale?

0:09:05 > 0:09:08- A fixed reserve of £300.- Yes.

0:09:08 > 0:09:11- And a value of three to four?- Yes.

0:09:11 > 0:09:13Done, job done.

0:09:22 > 0:09:25Edna, I'm so delighted that you've brought

0:09:25 > 0:09:28this delightful object along today.

0:09:28 > 0:09:33I was hoping that something from Wolverhampton,

0:09:33 > 0:09:36Smethwick, Stourbridge area would come in.

0:09:36 > 0:09:43This is all part and parcel of this rich seam of industrial activity of the 18th and 19th century.

0:09:43 > 0:09:46It's all represented in this delightful little box.

0:09:46 > 0:09:49I want to know where it came from.

0:09:49 > 0:09:53I got it from Bromsgrove in the middle '50s when a great aunt,

0:09:53 > 0:09:57who had been in service, the old lady who she lived with died.

0:09:57 > 0:10:02I think my aunt must have inherited all of what was in the house.

0:10:02 > 0:10:04Oh, gosh.

0:10:04 > 0:10:06Was there anything else like this?

0:10:06 > 0:10:09Not like that. A lot of Clarice Cliff and other china.

0:10:11 > 0:10:15Some strange pottery, mostly of the china sort of thing.

0:10:15 > 0:10:18So, in fact, you'll be coming to "Flog It!" for ever and a day?

0:10:18 > 0:10:21Well, you weren't interested in the rest.

0:10:21 > 0:10:26Not after I saw this. This is a delightful little box.

0:10:26 > 0:10:29What do you use it for and where do you keep it in your house?

0:10:29 > 0:10:31- On the shelf.- On the shelf.- Yes.

0:10:31 > 0:10:33- You didn't use it?- No, No.

0:10:33 > 0:10:38- Do you know what it's for?- No. - It's hinged.

0:10:38 > 0:10:42That little compartment inside, you would have put your needles.

0:10:42 > 0:10:49Needles, pins which would have been kept quite secure because they were valuable items.

0:10:49 > 0:10:53Did you never find the need for anything like this to retain pins?

0:10:53 > 0:10:55I certainly would have done.

0:10:55 > 0:10:58- Why's that? - I make costumes for schools.

0:10:58 > 0:11:04This little object, made in the 18th century, and probably

0:11:04 > 0:11:09in constant use right through the 19th century, into the 20th century for its original purpose.

0:11:09 > 0:11:11- 18th century?- 18th century.

0:11:11 > 0:11:15South Staffordshire was famed for its enamels.

0:11:15 > 0:11:20They were beautifully decorated. This is very much in the

0:11:20 > 0:11:25French and Swiss style of enamel decoration where you have this dark blue background with these

0:11:28 > 0:11:30lovely decoration.

0:11:30 > 0:11:34If you look carefully, it's almost like a cameo carving.

0:11:34 > 0:11:36It's raised to the touch. You can feel it, can't you?

0:11:36 > 0:11:38- Yes.- Yet, this is all glass.

0:11:38 > 0:11:43The reason that they were made in this area because there were huge seams of coal

0:11:43 > 0:11:48that would generate the heat, enough to melt the sand to give you glass.

0:11:48 > 0:11:51- Oh, yes.- Stourbridge was well famed for its glass.

0:11:51 > 0:11:57- Yes.- It going up for auction, back to Stourbridge. I think there's gonna be collectors out there.

0:11:57 > 0:11:59- Oh, right.- Think in terms of price.

0:11:59 > 0:12:02All that history wrapped up in an object like this.

0:12:02 > 0:12:07I would like see it go for about £120 to £180. That sort of price range.

0:12:07 > 0:12:11- That's good.- The auctioneers might want to tuck it in around about 100 for a reserve.

0:12:11 > 0:12:14- Would you be happy?- Oh, yes.

0:12:14 > 0:12:16I had no idea it was that much.

0:12:16 > 0:12:18Edna, I wish I could put this in my pocket.

0:12:18 > 0:12:21- Thank you very much.- Thank you.

0:12:24 > 0:12:28Right now, it's time to up the tempo and up the pace.

0:12:28 > 0:12:30It's time for some hammer action.

0:12:30 > 0:12:32It's our first visit to the auction rooms.

0:12:32 > 0:12:35While we make our way over there, here's a quick recap

0:12:35 > 0:12:39to jog your memory of all the items that we're gonna be flogging.

0:12:39 > 0:12:45We're about to find out if Trevor's Doulton figure will prove all that glitters is not gold.

0:12:45 > 0:12:51Whether Mike's Moorcroft vase has got enough pizzazz to live up to its name.

0:12:51 > 0:12:56I valued the watercolour by David Woodlock and I hope the bidders love it as much as I do.

0:12:56 > 0:13:01Finally, the enamel boxes like Edna's were produced in this area.

0:13:01 > 0:13:04Does that mean local collectors will pay more to own one?

0:13:10 > 0:13:14For our sale today we've come to Fieldings Fine Art Auctioneers in Stourbridge.

0:13:14 > 0:13:17It really is good to be back in this magnificent saleroom.

0:13:17 > 0:13:21We've also got the benefit of two auctioneers on the rostrum.

0:13:21 > 0:13:28Nick Davies will sell most of our lots but Will Farmer is the man in charge of ceramics.

0:13:28 > 0:13:30Quality name, right now, Moorcroft.

0:13:30 > 0:13:32Brilliant condition. It belongs to Mike.

0:13:32 > 0:13:37We've got a valuation of £300 to £400 on this by Catherine.

0:13:37 > 0:13:41Maybe she wasn't sure, because there's a reserve of £200.

0:13:41 > 0:13:43We see a great deal of it on the show.

0:13:43 > 0:13:46We see lots of Flambe and a lot of Blue. I've never seen a Green.

0:13:46 > 0:13:48I don't really like the green one, that much.

0:13:48 > 0:13:50This is a later piece.

0:13:50 > 0:13:53This is a Walter Moorcroft, Coral Hibiscus On Green.

0:13:53 > 0:13:57Moorcroft is just one of the best names at the moment.

0:13:57 > 0:13:59- He's flying.- William Moorcroft?

0:13:59 > 0:14:01Well, some Walter, Flambe Walter.

0:14:01 > 0:14:08The market is probably one of the most educated markets out there. They know exactly what they want.

0:14:08 > 0:14:12- What are they looking for now? - It's the rarer patterns.

0:14:12 > 0:14:14It's the earlier William Moorcroft.

0:14:14 > 0:14:16When it comes to Walter, they want Flambe.

0:14:16 > 0:14:19- They want it to favour on a blue ground.- Not a green ground?

0:14:19 > 0:14:23Not so much the Hibiscus On Green. But it's a big piece.

0:14:23 > 0:14:26- It's a nice shape and a nice size. - Absolutely. It is whistle clean.

0:14:26 > 0:14:29It's got everything that it needs to be.

0:14:29 > 0:14:33It's a good entry-level for a Moorcroft collector.

0:14:33 > 0:14:36Somebody who can't afford a piece on Blue at 500, would

0:14:36 > 0:14:40put their hand in their pocket to buy this and start a collection.

0:14:40 > 0:14:46The entry level you're talking about for a novice collector, is that the three to four or the two to three?

0:14:46 > 0:14:49Probably a little bit nearer the two to three mark.

0:14:49 > 0:14:51I think the four is a little bit ambitious, to be honest.

0:14:53 > 0:14:56Is it less desirable, or is it more unusual?

0:14:56 > 0:15:00The bidders are about to pass their verdict on Mike's Green Moorcroft.

0:15:00 > 0:15:03It's got the name and it's got the condition. It's Moorcroft.

0:15:03 > 0:15:08Has it got the price? Mike, it's a 1950s piece and it is Green.

0:15:08 > 0:15:10Here's our expert Catherine that put the value on it.

0:15:10 > 0:15:14£300 to £400. I know you paid quite a bit for this.

0:15:14 > 0:15:17We had a chat to the auctioneer a little earlier.

0:15:17 > 0:15:21He agreed with you, as well. Green, not the most popular colour.

0:15:21 > 0:15:27If it's Blues and Flambe and an early period, easy money.

0:15:27 > 0:15:31Easy £600. This just might struggle.

0:15:31 > 0:15:33It is a late one, 1950s.

0:15:33 > 0:15:36- It's a difficult one to sell. - Hopefully, we can get this away.

0:15:36 > 0:15:39What would you put the money towards if we sell it?

0:15:39 > 0:15:43I will share it out between all of the grandchildren.

0:15:43 > 0:15:45We've got to do our best, haven't we?

0:15:45 > 0:15:47Do it for the grandchildren.

0:15:47 > 0:15:52Moving on to Lot 90. We have the Walter Moorcroft, Hibiscus.

0:15:52 > 0:15:55This is the Coral Hibiscus On Green. Nice lot. Good size.

0:15:55 > 0:15:58Start me at 250 to open.

0:15:58 > 0:16:00250 to open.

0:16:00 > 0:16:04200, then, to get me out of the door. 200 as a start.

0:16:04 > 0:16:09200, I have. 210, 220, 230, 240.

0:16:09 > 0:16:12250, 260, 270, 280.

0:16:12 > 0:16:15One more from me 290, 300 and I'm out.

0:16:15 > 0:16:18Nod at 300, thank you sir. 310, anywhere else in the room?

0:16:18 > 0:16:22Otherwise, it's the gentleman's bid at the back left at £300.

0:16:22 > 0:16:25All sure and done? At 300.

0:16:25 > 0:16:27The hammer's going down, yes.

0:16:27 > 0:16:29Catherine, you were right. At the bottom end.

0:16:29 > 0:16:31Will was a little bit pessimistic.

0:16:31 > 0:16:33He knows the market here.

0:16:33 > 0:16:37He said, "Paul, I don't think it's gonna sell". I'm ever so pleased.

0:16:37 > 0:16:40I'm ever so pleased. What a happy ending.

0:16:40 > 0:16:42- Well done.- A good result.

0:16:42 > 0:16:44It's a roller-coaster of emotions at an auction room.

0:16:44 > 0:16:49If you've not been to one, get down to your local and experience it. It's great fun.

0:16:49 > 0:16:51- This is my first time. - So green was the colour?

0:16:51 > 0:16:55- Green was the colour.- We were wrong!

0:17:01 > 0:17:05Now, it's my turn to be the expert. I'm a little worried about this one.

0:17:05 > 0:17:09I've just been joined by Berbel here. That lovely watercolour.

0:17:09 > 0:17:12That beautiful cottage scene by David Woodlock.

0:17:12 > 0:17:15I can see it over there and she does look lovely.

0:17:15 > 0:17:18Her face is a little bit washed out.

0:17:18 > 0:17:19Now, will it sell?

0:17:19 > 0:17:23I hope so because it's been a friend of mine for quite a long time.

0:17:23 > 0:17:28Lot 730, I have some interest in this one at 250, 260.

0:17:28 > 0:17:30I look for 270 in the room.

0:17:30 > 0:17:34260 on commission. 270 in the room, anywhere? £260, 270, anywhere else?

0:17:34 > 0:17:39260 with me, it'll sell at 260. Are we all done and finished?

0:17:39 > 0:17:42260, finished?

0:17:42 > 0:17:47- It's going home, isn't it?- Yes, going home.- We're £40 too expensive.

0:17:48 > 0:17:51I'm sorry, Berbel. I'm sorry, very sorry.

0:17:51 > 0:17:54- It doesn't matter, because I still like it.- Yes.

0:17:54 > 0:17:57- If you like something, it doesn't really matter.- Yeah.

0:18:03 > 0:18:08There should be lots of local interest in this next item about to go under the hammer.

0:18:08 > 0:18:11It belongs to Edna. It is that little enamel box.

0:18:11 > 0:18:14It is gorgeous. I love the blue colour.

0:18:14 > 0:18:16That's so stunning.

0:18:16 > 0:18:18Why do you want to sell this?

0:18:18 > 0:18:21Nobody seems have noticed it over the last few years.

0:18:21 > 0:18:25It might as well go. They might appreciate the money instead.

0:18:25 > 0:18:27We're looking at £120 to £180.

0:18:27 > 0:18:30- David, I know you fell in love with this.- Yes, it's so nice.

0:18:30 > 0:18:34- I've got one or two pieces of Bilston enamel.- I gather.

0:18:34 > 0:18:38Sort of mid-18th century. It's so evocative of that particular period.

0:18:38 > 0:18:40It's got so much elegance with it.

0:18:40 > 0:18:43Although it slightly later in date, it's a lovely piece.

0:18:43 > 0:18:46There's gonna be collectors that will bid, don't you?

0:18:46 > 0:18:49Definitely, this is the area for the enamelling, isn't it?

0:18:49 > 0:18:51If we can't sell it here, we can't sell it anywhere!

0:18:51 > 0:18:54Let's hope we get that top end plus.

0:18:54 > 0:18:57Lot 649, decorated with blue and white floral sprays.

0:18:57 > 0:19:03- We've been bid £100 on a commission. - We're straight in.

0:19:03 > 0:19:06£100 on commission. Can I see 110 in the room anywhere? £100 maiden bid.

0:19:06 > 0:19:10Oh, not just the maiden bid at £100.

0:19:12 > 0:19:16At £100, maiden bid, first and last. Are we all done and dusted at 100?

0:19:16 > 0:19:18The hammer's gone down, £100.

0:19:18 > 0:19:20Straight in and straight out.

0:19:20 > 0:19:22- That's not bad.- It's not bad.

0:19:22 > 0:19:26We had a chat to the auctioneer. He agreed with the valuation.

0:19:26 > 0:19:31- He did think it was continental and maybe that's why the price was held back.- Yes.

0:19:31 > 0:19:34Nevertheless, the Bilston collectors would have loved that in their collection.

0:19:42 > 0:19:46Trevor's turn now. It's Reflections Of Childhood, but it's not your childhood, is it?

0:19:46 > 0:19:50- No.- You only purchased this stoneware figure three years ago.

0:19:50 > 0:19:56You bought this for £10. Our expert David has put a value of £80 to £120 on this.

0:19:56 > 0:19:59- That was a jolly good buy, I think. - Paul, I've left it completely open.

0:19:59 > 0:20:03The main reason being that somebody painted it gilt.

0:20:03 > 0:20:06So I think we've got to let it ride and see what happens to it.

0:20:06 > 0:20:10It's here to sell. And guess where the money's going. Tell us.

0:20:10 > 0:20:15- It's going for an engagement ring to someone I've known for quite some time.- What's her name?

0:20:15 > 0:20:19Elizabeth Anne. We met in 1978 and then we sort of drifted apart.

0:20:19 > 0:20:22- We're back together again. - What a lovely sweet story.

0:20:22 > 0:20:25- That's so romantic. - It's a happy ending. Good luck.

0:20:25 > 0:20:27- It's going under the hammer. - Lot 30.- Good luck.

0:20:27 > 0:20:31We have the Doulton stoneware figure, Reflections of Childhood.

0:20:31 > 0:20:36A nice lot. With a bronze lustre finish, we think maybe later.

0:20:36 > 0:20:39The hand to my right tells me I'm being offered £80 straightaway.

0:20:39 > 0:20:43Yes. Straight in.

0:20:43 > 0:20:47£80 it will be. A maiden bid on commission will take this away.

0:20:47 > 0:20:49Right at the back, 82. 85.

0:20:49 > 0:20:5388. And 90. And two. 95. 100.

0:20:53 > 0:20:57And five. 110. 115. 120.

0:20:57 > 0:21:00And five. 130. It's now at 130.

0:21:00 > 0:21:02125 still at my right.

0:21:02 > 0:21:04130, anyone care to pick it up?

0:21:04 > 0:21:08Otherwise £125 all sure and done.

0:21:08 > 0:21:13Yes, the hammer's gone down. £125, congratulations.

0:21:13 > 0:21:15- Thank you very much.- That's going towards the ring, is it?

0:21:15 > 0:21:17It is, yes.

0:21:17 > 0:21:20What a great man. This guy has been on national TV and in a few

0:21:20 > 0:21:24hours' time he's going to go down on one knee and propose

0:21:24 > 0:21:27- to his beloved.- Absolutely.

0:21:27 > 0:21:29Ah, I just hope she says yes.

0:21:29 > 0:21:31So do I!

0:21:34 > 0:21:37We're all keeping our fingers crossed for Trev.

0:21:37 > 0:21:41Meanwhile, it's Edna's enamel box that has inspired me

0:21:41 > 0:21:45to investigate the history behind these little keepsakes.

0:21:45 > 0:21:48And first I'm off to the Bilston and Battersea enamels factory

0:21:48 > 0:21:51just down the road which is still producing them today.

0:22:01 > 0:22:05This is where all the new Bilston boxes are now being produced.

0:22:05 > 0:22:09They arrive at the factory in a clean copper state.

0:22:09 > 0:22:14They are made off-site. And this is the business end of the production.

0:22:14 > 0:22:18These are the enamelling rooms. You can hear all the extractor fans blowing away.

0:22:18 > 0:22:22All the boxes are now enamelled, they are sprayed,

0:22:22 > 0:22:27with a white background finish, ready for the artists to decorate.

0:22:27 > 0:22:33The factory produces designs to commemorate all kinds of special occasions and anniversaries.

0:22:33 > 0:22:38You can even order bespoke boxes with your own picture or message painted on it.

0:22:38 > 0:22:42Collectors snap up these modern keepsakes, and I am told

0:22:42 > 0:22:45they are ordered as gifts by members of the Royal Family.

0:22:45 > 0:22:48But how did it all begin?

0:22:50 > 0:22:57250 years ago the Midlands was the largest and most famous centre of production of vitreous enamel,

0:22:57 > 0:23:00a thin layer of glass which is fused on to a metal base.

0:23:00 > 0:23:05And the Bilston name became synonymous with enamel boxes.

0:23:05 > 0:23:10In the 1700s, these little boxes were all the rage.

0:23:10 > 0:23:16Just about anybody who was anybody in fashionable Georgian Society would carry one around.

0:23:18 > 0:23:21Women kept their beauty patches in them to cover up smallpox scars.

0:23:21 > 0:23:25Fashionable gentlemen of the day would take snuff.

0:23:26 > 0:23:32And I have come here to the Bilston Craft Gallery to meet collector Ken Yeomens.

0:23:32 > 0:23:37Ken, these little boxes appealed to such a huge market. Why was that?

0:23:37 > 0:23:41I think it was probably the attraction of a combination

0:23:41 > 0:23:46of practicality and beauty, which is what attracted me to them in the first place.

0:23:46 > 0:23:47Generally speaking,

0:23:47 > 0:23:51they made very little that wasn't beautiful.

0:23:51 > 0:23:58And everything they made in the 18th century as far as enamels were concerned was put to practical uses.

0:23:58 > 0:24:03But they weren't around for a long period of time, about 100 years. What was their demise?

0:24:03 > 0:24:09The reason for that was that the patch box which you would know as the mirror really went out

0:24:09 > 0:24:16of fashion simply because towards the end of the 18th century, 1795, they found a cure for smallpox.

0:24:16 > 0:24:20As a result they didn't need the patches for the patch box.

0:24:20 > 0:24:22Society was being cleaned up.

0:24:22 > 0:24:25As far as the snuff boxes were concerned, they lasted for a while

0:24:25 > 0:24:33because King George III's wife Charlotte, who was actually called Snuffy Charlotte affectionately by

0:24:33 > 0:24:38the general population because she took snuff, and awful lot of the population took snuff.

0:24:38 > 0:24:44But then, round about 1800 she decided not to take snuff any longer.

0:24:44 > 0:24:49- So everyone else stopped. - It was a dirty habit and that really put the end to that.

0:24:49 > 0:24:53You've got a wonderful collection. You've brought a selection.

0:24:53 > 0:24:56- How long have you been collecting and dealing?- 35 years now.

0:24:56 > 0:25:01These are very good. I've got to say your collection is absolutely wonderful.

0:25:01 > 0:25:05The top end of the market. What would you look for in antique ones?

0:25:05 > 0:25:07Condition obviously is paramount.

0:25:07 > 0:25:14Yes. I think uniqueness, if that is the right word, something that is very unusual in the first place.

0:25:14 > 0:25:20But condition is of prime importance. Each one of these things has got a different use.

0:25:20 > 0:25:24And it's very rare that you find any two doing the same thing.

0:25:24 > 0:25:27OK, so let's talk through their virtues.

0:25:27 > 0:25:31- You've got some quite large ones here. Let's look at the casket with the domed lid.- Yes.

0:25:31 > 0:25:34This is really quite exceptional.

0:25:34 > 0:25:36What was that, that's not a snuffbox.

0:25:36 > 0:25:40No, this is a miniature travelling writing casket.

0:25:40 > 0:25:45With a few little bottles. There is a nib, one of two other pieces of equipment in there.

0:25:45 > 0:25:47The two ink bottles.

0:25:47 > 0:25:50The shape itself is just really superb.

0:25:50 > 0:25:53More importantly, the condition of that box is

0:25:53 > 0:25:58just so superb, nigh perfect for something that is 200 years old.

0:25:58 > 0:26:01That is probably my favourite of all that I have had.

0:26:01 > 0:26:06That's your favourite? That was going to be one of my questions, which is your favourite piece?

0:26:06 > 0:26:10What sort of value would you sell that at, or would you keep that?

0:26:10 > 0:26:13You wouldn't get a lot of change out of £3,000.

0:26:13 > 0:26:16- But where could you find another? - Indeed, indeed.

0:26:16 > 0:26:20That's an odd shape. I was going to ask you about that.

0:26:20 > 0:26:24Yes. This little bird bonbonnier would have been used...

0:26:24 > 0:26:27- For a gentleman? - Yes, it would be for a gentleman.

0:26:27 > 0:26:33If a man like your good-looking self if I may say so wanted to attract a lady and invite her for dinner,

0:26:33 > 0:26:38you would have made sure before you went out that your breath smelt so sweet and beautiful.

0:26:38 > 0:26:41There were no such things as toothpaste and deodorants.

0:26:41 > 0:26:45And you would have put in here some fine herbs or spices.

0:26:45 > 0:26:49- Or little sweet cachettes.- Mint or something.- Yes. You would put them in there.

0:26:49 > 0:26:54And made sure at the party you were about enlighten your appearance with,

0:26:54 > 0:26:57you would have got it out of your pocket with great aplomb

0:26:57 > 0:27:00and made sure everybody saw you putting this in your mouth.

0:27:00 > 0:27:05It's such a beautiful and a romantic thing.

0:27:05 > 0:27:09- And yet, it doesn't necessarily look that way when you see it.- No.

0:27:09 > 0:27:13It's a very unusual and rare thing to find.

0:27:13 > 0:27:18- Value?- Value. Between £1,000-2000 generally speaking depending

0:27:18 > 0:27:22on condition and size because you can get these in a smaller version.

0:27:22 > 0:27:25Where do you find all of your...

0:27:25 > 0:27:31Over the years people have got to know me for enamels generally. They do tend to ring me quite often.

0:27:31 > 0:27:34I do buy one or two at auction obviously.

0:27:34 > 0:27:40I think when people sadly want to sell collections because of the fear

0:27:40 > 0:27:44of theft and burglary, some things come through that way too.

0:27:44 > 0:27:47I don't know where that has been. I have no idea. I've had it five years.

0:27:47 > 0:27:52- If it could speak!- Yes.- That's the beauty of antiques though.

0:27:52 > 0:27:58They've all got their own separate personalities and characteristics, and they tell a story.

0:27:58 > 0:28:02- Ken, thank you so much for bringing part of your collection in. - My pleasure.

0:28:07 > 0:28:11From such delicate treasures, it's straight back to Wolverhampton

0:28:11 > 0:28:15and the bags at the Civic Hall, to see if there is any more to unearth.

0:28:17 > 0:28:23Edith, I absolutely love samplers and you've brought along one of the most beautiful examples.

0:28:23 > 0:28:25Where on Earth did you get it from?

0:28:25 > 0:28:28Well, it was in an old piece of furniture that we had.

0:28:28 > 0:28:36And we didn't know this was in it until we moved the furniture into our house when we were married.

0:28:36 > 0:28:38So it isn't a family piece at all.

0:28:38 > 0:28:42And it's just been left lying like that,

0:28:42 > 0:28:44we must have had it 40 years.

0:28:44 > 0:28:48So you actually bought the piece of furniture, second-hand?

0:28:48 > 0:28:50- Yes.- What an amazing story.

0:28:50 > 0:28:52What an amazing find.

0:28:52 > 0:28:55I never find things like this.

0:28:55 > 0:28:59Well, you have an exquisite sampler.

0:28:59 > 0:29:01And these were obviously made by little girls.

0:29:01 > 0:29:05They were at home during the evenings sewing wonderful pieces,

0:29:05 > 0:29:09embroidering them in such beautiful condition.

0:29:09 > 0:29:14- It must have taken them absolutely hours, days, months.- Yes.

0:29:14 > 0:29:17You can't imagine a child doing that today.

0:29:17 > 0:29:20But they do make the most beautiful decorative items.

0:29:20 > 0:29:23Up here we've got a little legend which is written.

0:29:23 > 0:29:26Let's see if we can work out what it says.

0:29:26 > 0:29:32Is it, "See that thou thy loins art girding...

0:29:32 > 0:29:35"..with celestial truth and love,

0:29:35 > 0:29:40"trim thy lamp and keep it burning with the unction from above."

0:29:40 > 0:29:46Wonderful. And here we actually have the name of the little girl who would have been the sampler.

0:29:46 > 0:29:48Ann Jane Hughes.

0:29:48 > 0:29:51It actually says there, aged 11 years.

0:29:51 > 0:29:55It's actually unusual that it is aged 11 because it would have been

0:29:55 > 0:29:57usually a girl of about seven or eight.

0:29:57 > 0:30:00But what I love about this is the amazing detail.

0:30:00 > 0:30:04I mean, every single piece of it is covered with this beautiful detail.

0:30:04 > 0:30:10We have got these fabulous peacocks here with their little tails resting on the top of the trees.

0:30:10 > 0:30:17We've got wonderful churches, a lady and gentleman here next to the church. We've got swans and sheep.

0:30:17 > 0:30:19It really is fabulous.

0:30:19 > 0:30:23And then this wonderful border right round the outside.

0:30:23 > 0:30:26Is it something that you're wanting to sell, Edith?

0:30:26 > 0:30:29Well, we haven't been able to do anything with it.

0:30:29 > 0:30:35- It really ought to be with someone who would have it framed and glazed. - Absolutely.

0:30:35 > 0:30:39We wouldn't know what to do with it. It deserves to be done properly I think.

0:30:39 > 0:30:41It doesn't look in bad condition.

0:30:41 > 0:30:46It looks like you've preserved it very well. There are some slight areas of wear round it.

0:30:46 > 0:30:53And here, on the date, which is 1828, I can see that it looks like it's been embroidered again.

0:30:53 > 0:30:55Someone has patched it up which is a real shame.

0:30:55 > 0:30:58I think that might make a difference to the price.

0:30:58 > 0:31:01Have you any idea how much it is worth at auction?

0:31:01 > 0:31:05- Absolutely not.- I would probably put an estimate on of £100-150

0:31:05 > 0:31:10but I would hope that it makes a lot more than that because it really deserves to.

0:31:10 > 0:31:12- It's a beautiful work. - It is beautiful.

0:31:12 > 0:31:15I'm going to put it in low in order to attract people.

0:31:15 > 0:31:19I want to protect this with a reserve of £100 as I don't think

0:31:19 > 0:31:23- it should be sold for any less than that.- That's fine.

0:31:23 > 0:31:26Estimate £100-150. Reserve £100.

0:31:26 > 0:31:28I hope it really takes off.

0:31:28 > 0:31:33- Thank you for bringing it in, Edith, you've really made my day. - Thank you. My pleasure.

0:31:40 > 0:31:46- What bling bling!- Exactly. - Are you into that?- Not really, no.

0:31:46 > 0:31:50I think it's absolutely wonderful. It is pretty.

0:31:50 > 0:31:52Obviously it belongs to you.

0:31:52 > 0:31:55- Yes.- Is there any great family history behind it?

0:31:55 > 0:32:00My mother bought it about 35-37 years ago because she liked it.

0:32:00 > 0:32:02- And she was into diamonds. - Yes, very much so.

0:32:02 > 0:32:04This is beautiful.

0:32:04 > 0:32:12What we have here is a fob watch that attached to the lady's lapel

0:32:12 > 0:32:15- with this small bow.- That's it, yes.

0:32:15 > 0:32:20And the watch swivelled around, so we've got that on the back.

0:32:20 > 0:32:24This was a wonderful way of wearing a watch other than a wristwatch

0:32:24 > 0:32:29- or one of those with a long fob chain.- That's right.

0:32:29 > 0:32:33So this gorgeously extravagant piece of jewellery

0:32:33 > 0:32:38was I suppose worn at the time of the Edwardian period.

0:32:38 > 0:32:40The time of Russian Revolution.

0:32:40 > 0:32:46- So the whole thing evokes that sort of glorious end of the epoch.- Yes.

0:32:46 > 0:32:49Late 19th-20th century.

0:32:49 > 0:32:50It's a nice movement.

0:32:50 > 0:32:54It was probably made in Switzerland.

0:32:54 > 0:32:58White gold, French case, set with diamonds.

0:32:58 > 0:33:00And they are all old cut.

0:33:00 > 0:33:01They are rose cut diamonds.

0:33:01 > 0:33:04So this is what gives it this wonderful prismatic light.

0:33:04 > 0:33:08- I know, it's beautiful. - It is exquisite. Lovely.

0:33:08 > 0:33:12- And you don't want it. - No.- You'd never wear it on any special occasion?- No.

0:33:12 > 0:33:14Right.

0:33:14 > 0:33:16Getting a price on it.

0:33:16 > 0:33:22- This is going to an auction house that sells a lot of jewellery.- Yes.

0:33:22 > 0:33:26- And they are well-versed in selling this type of quality item.- Fine.

0:33:26 > 0:33:31- I would put a price somewhere between £800-1000.- Right.

0:33:33 > 0:33:38And I think the auction house will want the reserve in the region of about £700-750.

0:33:38 > 0:33:41- And that would be agreeable? - Yes.- Right, excellent.

0:33:41 > 0:33:43I should like that put up for sale.

0:33:51 > 0:33:56David, thank you very much for coming along today and bringing this barograph.

0:33:56 > 0:33:58Tell me, where did you get it from?

0:33:58 > 0:34:06Well, I got it from my wife in the first instance as a birthday present about six or seven years ago.

0:34:06 > 0:34:10She'd asked me, "What do you want your birthday?"

0:34:10 > 0:34:14And I said, "I'd like a barometer."

0:34:14 > 0:34:19- We've got a place in our hall where a barometer would be ideal.- Right.

0:34:19 > 0:34:22So I asked her if she would buy a barometer.

0:34:22 > 0:34:28And a bit of confusion really. We ended up with a barograph.

0:34:28 > 0:34:35Right, OK. We've got a similar sort of connection in that they are both weather forecasting instruments.

0:34:35 > 0:34:38- But not quite the thing you were looking for.- No.

0:34:38 > 0:34:40Barometers can be more attractive than a barograph.

0:34:40 > 0:34:48So, what we've got here, we've got the drum here which actually records the weather forecast.

0:34:48 > 0:34:55And on the chart we've got the A right through to the K, so depending on where the needle goes,

0:34:55 > 0:35:02up and down, that would correspond to the list which is printed here and that would tell you

0:35:02 > 0:35:07what it's going to be. A is very hot, right down to K which is very cool.

0:35:07 > 0:35:11Do you have any ideas on date of this?

0:35:11 > 0:35:16I thought it was probably 1950s or something like that.

0:35:16 > 0:35:20Yeah, it's actually quite a late sort of barograph.

0:35:20 > 0:35:24It's not one of the early 19th-century ones which are a lot more desirable.

0:35:24 > 0:35:28They also had a nice little drawer at the front where

0:35:28 > 0:35:31you would have kept the chart paper. It is in a fairly good condition.

0:35:31 > 0:35:38We've got the ink bottle down here which still looks like it's full of ink.

0:35:38 > 0:35:42- Have you ever had it up and running? - We haven't, no. I haven't.

0:35:42 > 0:35:47- Is that because it was not an instrument that you were interested in?- Possibly, yes.

0:35:47 > 0:35:50I'm a little bit concerned about how much your wife paid for it.

0:35:50 > 0:35:56- Can I possibly ask you, do you know what she paid for it? - Well, it was £400.

0:35:56 > 0:36:01£400, and that was presumably from a dealer or something like that?

0:36:01 > 0:36:04- It was, yes.- So she would have paid retail price.

0:36:04 > 0:36:09For this, I think, you'll probably be looking at about £300, something like that.

0:36:09 > 0:36:12Between £300 and £400. Would you be happy to sell it at that?

0:36:12 > 0:36:17- Oh, yeah, I'll sell it at that. - I'd probably put a reserve on of about 250.

0:36:17 > 0:36:21- OK, that's fine.- You're happy to get rid of it, aren't you?- Well, yes.

0:36:21 > 0:36:23I'll be able to buy my barometer now.

0:36:23 > 0:36:29If it sells and it sells well, then you could buy what you've always wanted and buy your barometer.

0:36:33 > 0:36:37It's straight back to the auction with our next batch of antiques.

0:36:37 > 0:36:41Is the writing on the wall for Edith's sampler found in the back of a drawer?

0:36:41 > 0:36:44And if diamonds are a girl's best friend,

0:36:44 > 0:36:47will there be enough of them bidding today for Doreen's fob watch?

0:36:47 > 0:36:51And finally, what's the forecast for David's barograph?

0:36:51 > 0:36:54I hope it's old enough to weather a storm in the sale room.

0:37:01 > 0:37:05Right now, we've got a classic bit of recycling on Flog It.

0:37:05 > 0:37:07We have a needlework sampler belonging to Edith.

0:37:07 > 0:37:10You found this in an old second-hand piece of furniture.

0:37:10 > 0:37:13- True.- And you've hung on to it for a long time?

0:37:13 > 0:37:15Yes. We didn't find it straightaway.

0:37:15 > 0:37:21We just found that the drawer didn't go back and there was something behind it.

0:37:21 > 0:37:23That's a good tip when buying furniture.

0:37:23 > 0:37:27Pull the drawers out, look behind them, see if any £5 or £10 notes have dropped.

0:37:27 > 0:37:35In your case, a sampler, which is worth, hopefully, £100, maybe £150 at the top end of the estimate.

0:37:35 > 0:37:38- What d'you think, Catherine? - I think it's a beautiful piece.

0:37:38 > 0:37:42- There is a bit of wear to it. - It does put people off.

0:37:42 > 0:37:44It would make a lot more than that, I think.

0:37:44 > 0:37:49Needs to be displayed properly, out of the sun, out of damp conditions.

0:37:49 > 0:37:53Let's hope our auctioneer can weave his magic on this one.

0:37:53 > 0:37:5519th-century sampler.

0:37:55 > 0:37:57This is the one with the figures and the animals.

0:37:57 > 0:38:00A bit of damage to it. Bids all the same.

0:38:00 > 0:38:02Start me at 100 and...? ..20.

0:38:02 > 0:38:06- 120.- 120! That's good.

0:38:06 > 0:38:08I see 125 in the room. 125. 130.

0:38:08 > 0:38:135. 140. 5. 150. 5. 160.

0:38:13 > 0:38:16Oh, my word!

0:38:16 > 0:38:21At £160, going out for the sampler, all done.

0:38:21 > 0:38:24- Yes!- Top end of the estimate.

0:38:24 > 0:38:27The textile dealers were here today.

0:38:27 > 0:38:29OK, what will you put the money towards?

0:38:29 > 0:38:34- I've just had twin grandchildren. - Ahh, christening presents?

0:38:34 > 0:38:38- Yes.- That's lovely. Congratulations. That's wonderful news.

0:38:38 > 0:38:42- A boy and a girl.- What are their names?- Ethan and Ava.- Good luck.

0:38:46 > 0:38:49Right now, the pressure is definitely on because

0:38:49 > 0:38:52we've got David's barograph about to go under the hammer.

0:38:52 > 0:38:55We've got a valuation £300 to £400.

0:38:55 > 0:38:59We had a chat to the auctioneer a little bit earlier on.

0:38:59 > 0:39:01He thinks it's going to struggle.

0:39:01 > 0:39:04- Does he? - It might struggle at the lower end.

0:39:04 > 0:39:08- That's the sort of value he'd put on a 19th-century one. This is quite late.- Yes.

0:39:08 > 0:39:12He's got his work cut out and he said the pressure is on.

0:39:12 > 0:39:15I think I was a bit ambitious with the estimate.

0:39:15 > 0:39:17The thing is, your wife paid £400 for it.

0:39:17 > 0:39:22You were swayed by that and we're trying to get your money back. That's the most important thing.

0:39:22 > 0:39:26But we'd all settle on £300 before the hammer went down.

0:39:26 > 0:39:28But hopefully we might get that 400.

0:39:28 > 0:39:31- You never know. - I should be very happy with that.

0:39:31 > 0:39:34- So will we, and I think Catherine were, too.- I'll be thrilled.

0:39:34 > 0:39:38Mahogany case Barograph by Lee and Son is lot 830.

0:39:38 > 0:39:44We've had a late bid and we come in at £300 on a commission.

0:39:44 > 0:39:47- Oh, that's a surprise.- Wow!

0:39:47 > 0:39:51310, 320, 330, 340, 350,

0:39:51 > 0:39:55360, 370, 380, 390.

0:39:55 > 0:39:57Says no. 380 on a commission.

0:39:57 > 0:39:59390 anywhere else? £380.

0:39:59 > 0:40:03£380, all done and finished?

0:40:03 > 0:40:07The hammer's gone down. What can I say? Made estimate, Catherine.

0:40:07 > 0:40:08- That is very good.- Unbelievable.

0:40:08 > 0:40:12We all feared the worst because we had a chat with the auctioneer.

0:40:12 > 0:40:17- Too pessimistic. - Yeah, he was. I was as well!

0:40:17 > 0:40:21- That's brilliant. That's absolutely brilliant.- It is.

0:40:21 > 0:40:22That's got your money back.

0:40:22 > 0:40:26- Are you going to go out and buy a barometer?- Yes.- Brilliant.

0:40:28 > 0:40:30110, 120...

0:40:31 > 0:40:37OK, time is up. No, we are not flogging my watch, we are flogging Doreen's little lapel watch.

0:40:37 > 0:40:39It's beautiful, absolutely beautiful.

0:40:39 > 0:40:43We've got a valuation of £800 to £1,000.

0:40:43 > 0:40:49- This is a lapel brooch, but with a timepiece that has been slightly altered.- That's perfectly correct.

0:40:49 > 0:40:53The main problem being that the type of jewellery is not fashionable.

0:40:53 > 0:40:59The idea of having a lapel brooch and then a little watch hanging down concealed in diamonds.

0:40:59 > 0:41:03- Lovely in the sort of thirties, - But you feel a bit vulnerable with it as well today.

0:41:03 > 0:41:09- That's right.- And as David said, it isn't fashionable. It is exactly what our auctioneer said earlier on.

0:41:09 > 0:41:13- Oh, right.- Right, you don't know this, but I'm going to tell you.

0:41:13 > 0:41:17He said the valuation of £800 to £1,000 might just struggle.

0:41:17 > 0:41:20We want people out there that love bling bling.

0:41:20 > 0:41:22That is stunning, isn't it?

0:41:22 > 0:41:25Absolutely stunning. I'm keeping my fingers crossed as well.

0:41:25 > 0:41:27- All the talking's over.- Yes, yes.

0:41:27 > 0:41:32We've heard what our expert says and what the auctioneer said,

0:41:32 > 0:41:35now it's time to find out what the bidders think.

0:41:35 > 0:41:39- Here it is, Doreen, this is your lot.- I'm dreading this.

0:41:39 > 0:41:43Lot 650 is the 19th century ladies' diamond-encrusted

0:41:43 > 0:41:44crown-wind fob watch.

0:41:44 > 0:41:48I'm looking in the room for £700.

0:41:48 > 0:41:51Anyone coming in at £700?

0:41:51 > 0:41:54- Rather high start.- Very high start.

0:41:54 > 0:41:56£700, a nod. Do I see 710 anywhere?

0:41:56 > 0:41:58710 on the phone.

0:41:58 > 0:42:00We have got a phone bid.

0:42:00 > 0:42:03We have a phone bid.

0:42:03 > 0:42:07£710 on the phone. 720 anywhere else?

0:42:07 > 0:42:09There's two phone bids.

0:42:09 > 0:42:10740, Chris?

0:42:12 > 0:42:15750, 760,

0:42:15 > 0:42:18770, 780, 800...

0:42:18 > 0:42:23- Yes!- Yes! It's good, it's good.

0:42:23 > 0:42:25860, 880,

0:42:25 > 0:42:29900, 920,

0:42:29 > 0:42:32940, 960, 980...

0:42:32 > 0:42:37Oh, this is good! Oh, this is good!

0:42:37 > 0:42:391,020.

0:42:39 > 0:42:411,050?

0:42:43 > 0:42:48£1020. At £1,020, are we all done for the watch at £1,020?

0:42:48 > 0:42:50All done and finished at £1,020?

0:42:50 > 0:42:55- Yes!- Oh, Doreen, I'm ever so pleased, I really am. We were a little bit pessimistic.

0:42:55 > 0:42:58- I was about the watch, yes. - It's a lot of money, isn't it?

0:42:58 > 0:43:00Yes, very nice.

0:43:00 > 0:43:05- What a lovely surprise. That was the jewel in our crown, wasn't it?- Yes.

0:43:11 > 0:43:13It's all over for our owners.

0:43:13 > 0:43:17The auction is still going on, but all credit to our experts.

0:43:17 > 0:43:21I think they were spot on with money today. I hope you enjoyed the show.

0:43:21 > 0:43:23Until the next time, it's cheerio.

0:43:30 > 0:43:34Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd - 2007

0:43:34 > 0:43:38E-mail us at subtitling@bbc.co.uk