0:00:03 > 0:00:05We've taken the high road and the low road.
0:00:05 > 0:00:08We've crossed the Firth of Forth and landed in Fife,
0:00:08 > 0:00:12famous for its golf courses and ancient universities.
0:00:12 > 0:00:13Welcome to "Flog It!"
0:00:37 > 0:00:40Today we're near Glenrothes in the Fife countryside,
0:00:40 > 0:00:44about 30 minutes from Dundee and an hour from Edinburgh.
0:00:44 > 0:00:45It's a superb day
0:00:45 > 0:00:49so we've decided to hold the event outside to make the most of it.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54The crowds are gathering in the grounds of Balbirnie House
0:00:54 > 0:00:56here in the heart of Fife.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59It's an ancient kingdom, steeped in history,
0:00:59 > 0:01:02exactly what our experts will be looking for today.
0:01:02 > 0:01:05Someone in this queue could be going home with a lot of money.
0:01:05 > 0:01:07Stay tuned and you'll find out.
0:01:07 > 0:01:11It's not just our crowd who are enjoying today's sunshine.
0:01:11 > 0:01:15Our experts headed up by Anita Manning and James Lewis
0:01:15 > 0:01:16have a spring in their step, too.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19And things just started to hot up.
0:01:19 > 0:01:21A lovely barometer, in beautiful condition.
0:01:21 > 0:01:25Tell me the truth. When I want to see what the weather's like,
0:01:25 > 0:01:26I look out the window.
0:01:26 > 0:01:27THEY LAUGH
0:01:27 > 0:01:30That no-nonsense approach that helped make Anita
0:01:30 > 0:01:32Scotland's first female auctioneer.
0:01:34 > 0:01:37James also is a successful auctioneer and valuer
0:01:37 > 0:01:39and has a more scientific approach.
0:01:39 > 0:01:44That's really very speculative and very interesting.
0:01:44 > 0:01:45Coming up.
0:01:45 > 0:01:49- 55, 60.- I have high hopes for one of our items.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52- This lot are going to go mad for it.- I hope so.- They will.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56And expectations are high at our valuation day.
0:01:56 > 0:02:00- What do you think they're worth? - It'd be nice if it'd be £1,000...
0:02:00 > 0:02:03It would be nice. It would be really nice.
0:02:03 > 0:02:05THEY LAUGH
0:02:05 > 0:02:08Anita is first to tee off, she's looking at model trains
0:02:08 > 0:02:09that Carol has brought along.
0:02:11 > 0:02:17The collectables market for train stuff is really good at the moment.
0:02:17 > 0:02:22But when I look at this, what I think of is fabulous fun.
0:02:22 > 0:02:27When I was a wee girl, my dad bought me train sets instead of dolls.
0:02:27 > 0:02:31- Where did you get this stuff? - This is my husband's.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34He was given it by his father.
0:02:34 > 0:02:40Every Saturday, they would go up and buy something for the railway.
0:02:40 > 0:02:47And either it was an engine or a set or rolling stock, whatever,
0:02:47 > 0:02:49it was bought for him.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52He was an only child so he got everything.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54- It was bought over a period of years. - Bought with love.
0:02:54 > 0:02:58I mean, it's Tri-ang, which is one of the good makes.
0:02:58 > 0:03:01It was from the Lines brothers in the 1950s,
0:03:01 > 0:03:04but it's still absolutely wonderful.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07I've had a great time playing with it.
0:03:07 > 0:03:13And what we have here is a list of accessories
0:03:13 > 0:03:15and I think that's great.
0:03:15 > 0:03:18Another thing that strikes me, and it's an important issue here,
0:03:18 > 0:03:24- the condition is wonderful. So, it was well looked after?- Yes.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- Do you have sons?- I have two sons.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29Are they interested in...?
0:03:29 > 0:03:31They were never allowed to play with them.
0:03:31 > 0:03:36- Never allowed. Got to look at them, but never allowed to play.- Ah-huh.
0:03:36 > 0:03:41If these come into sale, I would put them into two different lots.
0:03:41 > 0:03:44I think that's the way that we can maximise.
0:03:44 > 0:03:49Now, I'd put our first lot with this Transcontinental
0:03:49 > 0:03:52and this was an American model.
0:03:52 > 0:03:56I would put that with this Princess Elizabeth.
0:03:56 > 0:04:02- Now, to the collectors, this will be more interesting.- Yes.
0:04:02 > 0:04:09Second lot, we would have this marvellous Davy Crockett engine
0:04:09 > 0:04:10and what I love about it is,
0:04:10 > 0:04:13you have the catalogues, you have order books,
0:04:13 > 0:04:15you have instructions.
0:04:15 > 0:04:20You even have an instruction manual for laying out the track.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24And I think that it's absolutely charming.
0:04:24 > 0:04:30- I think we should put the lot... each lot in at 80 - 120.- Mm-hm.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33Would you feel happy about, erm, at that price?
0:04:33 > 0:04:37- Would you feel happy they went in at that price?- Yes.
0:04:37 > 0:04:38That's fair. Shall we do that?
0:04:38 > 0:04:44- We'll put a firm reserve of, say, £80?- Yes.- On each lot.- Mm-hm.
0:04:44 > 0:04:48- Will you be sad to see them go? - Yes.- Will you?
0:04:48 > 0:04:52I will be sad to see them go. They were part of my husband so...
0:04:52 > 0:04:56But I do honestly think I'd rather that somebody got them
0:04:56 > 0:05:00that can use them and enjoy them, rather than being in a box.
0:05:00 > 0:05:04These will go onto a collector who will cherish them and love them.
0:05:04 > 0:05:06That's a good way to go.
0:05:06 > 0:05:08Let's pass them onto a collector,
0:05:08 > 0:05:10put them to auction, 80 - 120.
0:05:10 > 0:05:15- We'll put a reserve of £80 on them with a bit of discretion.- Mm-hm.
0:05:15 > 0:05:19Tiny bit of discretion, 80-120,
0:05:19 > 0:05:22- and we'll go along and enjoy the auction.- Thank you.
0:05:23 > 0:05:28The weather is so fantastic, it almost feels like a holiday.
0:05:28 > 0:05:29But there's plenty of work to do
0:05:29 > 0:05:33and so many bags and boxes remain unpacked.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35Can I be nosy? Can I dive in and have a look?
0:05:36 > 0:05:38I like the glaze on that!
0:05:38 > 0:05:41- Isn't that lovely? A little money box.- Yeah.
0:05:41 > 0:05:44The sad thing about a money box like this, made of china,
0:05:44 > 0:05:47- is once it's full... - No, you can get the money out.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49- How? Shaking it like that? - No, with a knife.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51With a...with a knife!
0:05:53 > 0:05:56- Have you tried it? - Definitely.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59Do you know something? Wait there, I'll be back in a flash.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03- Right.- I'll give you a bit of information on this.- OK. Thank you.
0:06:03 > 0:06:04So, whilst I do more research,
0:06:04 > 0:06:08a collection of watches brought in by Norma and her brother Alan
0:06:08 > 0:06:10is being inspected by James.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13Welcome to "Flog It!"
0:06:13 > 0:06:17We're not looking at a rare, fine piece of work.
0:06:17 > 0:06:22I picked these out because, up and down the country,
0:06:22 > 0:06:24from John O'Groats to Land's End,
0:06:24 > 0:06:28in almost every old chest of drawers, along with the jewellery
0:06:28 > 0:06:31and the things inherited, is grandfather's pocket watch.
0:06:31 > 0:06:37It's something that I see probably more often than anything else
0:06:37 > 0:06:38which is why I've picked them.
0:06:38 > 0:06:41Because you've got a real cross-section here,
0:06:41 > 0:06:45spanning probably 50 or 60 years and they must have a real history.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47So, are they family pieces?
0:06:47 > 0:06:49Yes, my dad had got them
0:06:49 > 0:06:52and they were passed onto me when he died.
0:06:52 > 0:06:56- And my late husband's grandparents. - OK.
0:06:56 > 0:07:00- So they're all men's watches, not ladies'.- Yes.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04And whenever we're looking at a pocket watch, to start with,
0:07:04 > 0:07:07there are three different types. That's the first thing to say.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09There's an open face pocket watch, this one here.
0:07:09 > 0:07:11And this one here.
0:07:11 > 0:07:16Those are pocket watches with only a cover one side, like that.
0:07:16 > 0:07:17One silver cover.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21Then we have hunter pocket watches, which are these.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25A silver cover that comes over and covers the dial.
0:07:25 > 0:07:29Known as hunters because, if you're on your horseback, out on the hunt,
0:07:29 > 0:07:32and you fall off, you've got to protect the watch glass.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35You also get half-hunters.
0:07:35 > 0:07:37You don't have an example of that,
0:07:37 > 0:07:40but a half-hunter has a circular disc in the centre,
0:07:40 > 0:07:42- so you can still tell the time. - Mm-hm.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46So we've got one, two, three, four watches.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48We've also got the Albert chain
0:07:48 > 0:07:52made fashionable by Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's husband.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55After all these years of them being in the family, why flog them now?
0:07:55 > 0:07:58It's a shame they're just sitting in a drawer.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01- You don't wear them.- Not getting used.- Never worn them?- No.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05- You don't remember your family wearing them?- No.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08OK, so this one here, about 1860 in date.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12This one here, about 1880, 1890.
0:08:12 > 0:08:17This one, around 1900, 1905.
0:08:17 > 0:08:20And this one, around 1920.
0:08:20 > 0:08:25The silver Alberts. Each individual link is hallmarked with the lion.
0:08:25 > 0:08:26Every single link.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29And here, just because it's silver,
0:08:29 > 0:08:32an old cigarette case from the same sort of period.
0:08:32 > 0:08:37You don't have to have something that's individually worth a lot
0:08:37 > 0:08:38to sell it at auction.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41If you've got lots of things that can group together,
0:08:41 > 0:08:44it makes a sensible lot. What do you think they're worth?
0:08:45 > 0:08:47It'd be nice if it'd be £1,000...
0:08:47 > 0:08:50It would be nice. It would be really nice.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- Well, now... - I've jumped the gun.- Yeah.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56They're not worth anywhere near that. I'm sorry.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00I mean, a little silver continental watch like that is worth about £30.
0:09:00 > 0:09:05- Oh.- Erm, one like that, worth about £40, £50.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08A hunter watch like that, again £30 - £50.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12Another one, worth about £30.
0:09:12 > 0:09:16Cigarette case, £20. And two Alberts, £20-£30 each.
0:09:16 > 0:09:22If we put an estimate of 150 - 250, and a reserve of 150,
0:09:22 > 0:09:24- how do you feel? - Fine, yeah.- Yeah?
0:09:24 > 0:09:26If they don't make that, have them back.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28- Got them back.- Never know, the fashion of...- Wear them.
0:09:28 > 0:09:30You could wear it, very dapper.
0:09:32 > 0:09:36Only time will tell if these watches do well at auction.
0:09:36 > 0:09:37And Anita's talking to Brenda,
0:09:37 > 0:09:39and there's definitely a buzz in the air.
0:09:42 > 0:09:44- Brenda, welcome to "Flog It!"- Thank you.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48And thank you very much for bringing this wonderful wee bug brooch along.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52- Can you tell me, where did you get him?- I can't remember.
0:09:52 > 0:09:54- You don't know?- I don't.
0:09:54 > 0:09:59- Maybe he just came flying through the window on a summer's day?- Yes!
0:09:59 > 0:10:02He's very charming and very sweet.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05I think what we've got here is a bee,
0:10:05 > 0:10:11and we've got these wonderful moonstone insets here.
0:10:11 > 0:10:15And turquoise and moonstone stripes,
0:10:15 > 0:10:18and a little bit of coral for the eyes.
0:10:18 > 0:10:22In fact, we've got the "Flog It!" colours here.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24Let's hope that brings us luck.
0:10:24 > 0:10:29Brooches are perhaps not as popular as they used to be,
0:10:29 > 0:10:33but I'm finding in auction that anything that's
0:10:33 > 0:10:36a wee bit unusual is appealing,
0:10:36 > 0:10:41and I think this wee cheeky chappie might be one of those.
0:10:41 > 0:10:48If we look at the back we can see he is very well constructed.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50There is some quality here.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54When I looked at him at the beginning, I wanted him to be gold.
0:10:54 > 0:10:55He wasn't.
0:10:55 > 0:11:02On closer examination, what we saw here was the mark of 925,
0:11:02 > 0:11:06which is a silver mark, a continental silver mark.
0:11:06 > 0:11:10But it has this gold effect so it has some gilding on.
0:11:10 > 0:11:15I also like the fact his wings are articulated
0:11:15 > 0:11:18and it means that we have some movement there,
0:11:18 > 0:11:21and that's not just that it was loose, that was meant to be.
0:11:21 > 0:11:25Date on this? Early 20th century, could be
0:11:25 > 0:11:29as early as 1900s going up to about 1920.
0:11:29 > 0:11:34It has some quality, it's very sweet and it's very charming.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38If I was putting it into auction,
0:11:38 > 0:11:43I would like to put the estimate in the region of 30 to 50.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46The people who are interested in brooches,
0:11:46 > 0:11:50the people who are interested in bug brooches will love this wee guy.
0:11:50 > 0:11:55- Would you be happy with that estimate?- Yes.
0:11:55 > 0:12:00It's not a lot of dosh, what would you spend the money on?
0:12:00 > 0:12:04I'd look for a butterfly, because I collect butterfly brooches.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06Ah, I love butterfly brooches,
0:12:06 > 0:12:08especially those marvellous enamel ones.
0:12:08 > 0:12:13- Yes.- Do you wear them or have them on display in a little cabinet or...?
0:12:13 > 0:12:18Some I do wear and others I actually framed.
0:12:18 > 0:12:22So I can get in and out of the frame, and I put them on the wall.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24That's a lovely idea, that's terrific.
0:12:24 > 0:12:26Let's hope we find a butterfly at the auction.
0:12:29 > 0:12:31Now, after discussing the money bank with some other experts,
0:12:31 > 0:12:34I'm ready to report back to Janet about it.
0:12:35 > 0:12:39It looks very much like Denby ware, but with that Majolica glaze.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42I think it's Scottish because it was my mother's brother.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44He died when he was four or five.
0:12:44 > 0:12:46At the beginning of the 20th century.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48Beginning of the 20th century.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51James's initial reaction was that's early 20th century.
0:12:51 > 0:12:56He'd say early 1900s, which correlates to what you think.
0:12:56 > 0:13:04But the inscription of "Robert" looks like it's 1860s, 1870s.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07- Might have been handed down, there was a Robert before.- Was there?
0:13:07 > 0:13:11It's a lovely architectural detail. A finial, normally found in pairs.
0:13:11 > 0:13:13You see them on furniture.
0:13:13 > 0:13:15On top of buildings, gateposts. A finial.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18It's an architectural detail
0:13:18 > 0:13:21that just sets off the dynamic and the vitality of the piece.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25And that's just lovely. Look at the colours.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28Look at that lovely sort of treacle glaze, the way it's dripping.
0:13:28 > 0:13:30Is this something you'd like to sell?
0:13:30 > 0:13:33Well, it depends how much it's worth.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36If you put this into auction and if it is Scottish,
0:13:36 > 0:13:38it might be worth £200.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41If it's Derbyshire, it might be worth £200 to £300.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- Is it...?- We'll sell it then.- Sorry? - I think I'll sell it.
0:13:44 > 0:13:50- Let's agree to a value of around £150 to £250.- OK.- OK?
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- With a bit of discretion.- Right.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- We'll put a reserve on of £100. - Right.- If that's OK?
0:13:55 > 0:13:57OK, we'll bubble wrap this for you.
0:13:57 > 0:14:01It then gets safely packaged up by the couriers
0:14:01 > 0:14:02and taken to the auction room
0:14:02 > 0:14:05where the auctioneer will catalogue and photograph it
0:14:05 > 0:14:09with the auctioneer's description, after he's done his homework.
0:14:09 > 0:14:13And, hopefully, we'll see you in the auction room.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15And this could be worth a lot of money.
0:14:15 > 0:14:18'I'm sure if it is by a local pottery,
0:14:18 > 0:14:20'they'll recognise it straightaway.'
0:14:31 > 0:14:33Wouldn't you just love to live in a castle?
0:14:33 > 0:14:35That's got to be the stuff dreams are made of,
0:14:35 > 0:14:39that one day you'd have money to afford your own fairy tale home.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42Well, up here in Fife, I've come across a story of a family
0:14:42 > 0:14:44who lived in this very castle,
0:14:44 > 0:14:48transforming it from neglect into an artistic inspiration.
0:14:48 > 0:14:49Welcome to Kellie Castle.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56The history of this remarkable building goes back a long way.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59There are records referring to this site in the 12th century.
0:14:59 > 0:15:02It passed through families and generations,
0:15:02 > 0:15:04ending up belonging to the Earls of Kellie.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09But it's the more recent past I'm interested in.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13In 1876 Professor James Lorimer rented the castle
0:15:13 > 0:15:17from the Earl of Mar and Kellie for a summer residence.
0:15:17 > 0:15:18The professor was an asthmatic,
0:15:18 > 0:15:21and he was advised by his doctors that spending a bit of time
0:15:21 > 0:15:24up here in the fresh air in Fife would do him the world of good.
0:15:24 > 0:15:29But the castle was in a bad state of disrepair and needed a lot more
0:15:29 > 0:15:32than just a bit of tender loving care to bring it back to life.
0:15:35 > 0:15:38Thankfully, Professor Lorimer and his family had very good taste,
0:15:38 > 0:15:41and carefully restored the castle using the skills
0:15:41 > 0:15:43and tradition of the local craftsmen.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46Some of the castle's older features still remain,
0:15:46 > 0:15:52like the plasterwork ceiling in the library, which dates back to 1617.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54But they sit alongside the more recent touches
0:15:54 > 0:15:55added by the Lorimers.
0:15:58 > 0:16:02Inspired by what they'd seen during the restoration stages,
0:16:02 > 0:16:05the professor's sons were bursting with creativity,
0:16:05 > 0:16:06eager to get hands on.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09In fact, Robert Lorimer became a respected architect
0:16:09 > 0:16:11and later received a knighthood.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15His mother commissioned him to do many design features
0:16:15 > 0:16:17here in the castle, which are evident all over the place.
0:16:17 > 0:16:21Things like this little cartouche above the fireplace.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24Robert's brother, John Henry Lorimer, was an artist,
0:16:24 > 0:16:27and many of his paintings are still here today, illustrating
0:16:27 > 0:16:30just how the rooms looked when his generation lived here,
0:16:30 > 0:16:32albeit with a little bit of artistic licence.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39It's no wonder Robert Lorimer was destined to become an architect,
0:16:39 > 0:16:42having lived in this wonderful historic building.
0:16:42 > 0:16:45In fact, he went on to design the Scottish National War Memorial
0:16:45 > 0:16:47in Edinburgh Castle,
0:16:47 > 0:16:51and he also designed furniture using trusted local craftsmen.
0:16:51 > 0:16:55This way, he was in total control of the design project after
0:16:55 > 0:16:59being commissioned as the architect. And here in the Vine Room - you can
0:16:59 > 0:17:01see why it's called the Vine Room, you only have to
0:17:01 > 0:17:04look at the ceiling here - there's a lovely example of his work.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07It's a walnut chest of drawers, it's a nod
0:17:07 > 0:17:11to the Arts and Crafts Movement, which he was associated with.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14But, stylistically, it draws from the Queen Anne period,
0:17:14 > 0:17:17that wonderful golden age of walnut using cross-veneered sections,
0:17:17 > 0:17:19like here, look at that.
0:17:20 > 0:17:22Which you'd see on a Queen Anne chest of drawers,
0:17:22 > 0:17:25the typical ones with the bun feet, but look at the front here.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28Rather than use all the burr inlays that you would
0:17:28 > 0:17:31see in the Queen Anne period, because it's got that more
0:17:31 > 0:17:34stylistic Arts and Crafts approach, it's slightly more severe.
0:17:34 > 0:17:39But what he's done is used his own stylistic inlay
0:17:39 > 0:17:42in the shape of a stag hunt going on.
0:17:43 > 0:17:48But using, cleverly, burr walnut. Isn't that lovely?
0:17:48 > 0:17:50And like all good architects that designed furniture,
0:17:50 > 0:17:52he's left his stamp on the building.
0:17:56 > 0:17:59The artistic theme continues with this magnificent panel,
0:17:59 > 0:18:02painted in 1897 by Phoebe Anna Traquair.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05She was an Irish artist that moved to Scotland following her marriage,
0:18:05 > 0:18:09and she definitely was a key name in the Arts and Crafts Movement.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11Both Lorimer brothers moved in artistic circles,
0:18:11 > 0:18:13so we can presume they knew her.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17In fact, John Henry asked Phoebe to paint this wonderful panel,
0:18:17 > 0:18:22and it described a procession of girls following a wee Cupid.
0:18:22 > 0:18:24But I've got to tell you this.
0:18:24 > 0:18:27In the 1930s, Robert Lorimer's son Hugh and his family moved into the
0:18:27 > 0:18:31place, and they wanted it covered up, they wanted all the walls white.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34But I'm pleased to tell you it was uncovered again in 1996.
0:18:35 > 0:18:38Isn't that marvellous? I just love that.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44The creative genes were passed on to the next generation.
0:18:44 > 0:18:46Robert's son Hugh was a renowned sculptor.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57Hugh worked here in this studio, and it's been recreated to look
0:18:57 > 0:19:00exactly how it would have been when he was chipping away at the stone.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03He chose only to work in stone, which is quite unusual, really,
0:19:03 > 0:19:07and very risky. You only get one chance.
0:19:07 > 0:19:11But just being here gives you a sense of inspiration,
0:19:11 > 0:19:15it was a nice place to work and you can see how prolific he was.
0:19:15 > 0:19:19You can see his work was heavily influenced by Eric Gill, there's
0:19:19 > 0:19:24a combination of religious artefacts and real life glued together.
0:19:24 > 0:19:26That's lovely, really is.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29After many decades as tenants,
0:19:29 > 0:19:33the Lorimer family finally bought the castle in 1948 and owned it
0:19:33 > 0:19:37until it was sold to the National Trust for Scotland in 1970.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40They also loaned or sold back many antiques
0:19:40 > 0:19:43and items of furniture to remain at the castle.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49I absolutely love Kellie Castle, I really do, just look at it.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52Not only is it a great historical building of content,
0:19:52 > 0:19:54but it's also got character and charm,
0:19:54 > 0:19:57and that's down to the family that lived here,
0:19:57 > 0:19:59because they took this place as a blank canvas, and with
0:19:59 > 0:20:03the help of local craftsmen, they've certainly made their mark on it.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05For me, that gives it the whole package.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08It's an architectural gem that embraces you.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20That's exactly what you expect to find up here in Scotland
0:20:20 > 0:20:23just outside Saint Andrews, a wonderful set of vintage clubs.
0:20:23 > 0:20:28Right now, it's time to go off and...no, not play golf,
0:20:28 > 0:20:30put our first items under the hammer.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33It's time to leave the tranquillity of this wonderful stately home
0:20:33 > 0:20:36and go to where the action's happening - to the auction room.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39Here's a quick recap of what we're taking with us.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44All the Bs - that's Brenda's bee brooch.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47It's not gold, but it is pretty.
0:20:47 > 0:20:51The pristine model train set that belonged to Carol's husband.
0:20:51 > 0:20:54That superb finial-shaped money bank.
0:20:54 > 0:20:57And, finally, the selection of silver pocket watches
0:20:57 > 0:21:01that has been passed down through Norma's family.
0:21:04 > 0:21:07For today's sale, we've travelled south to Rosewell in Midlothian
0:21:07 > 0:21:10and to the Thomson Roddick saleroom.
0:21:10 > 0:21:15The commission rate here is 15% plus VAT.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17The auction is well under way.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20Sybelle Thomson is hosting the proceedings on the rostrum.
0:21:20 > 0:21:2279.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25First up is the money box. Further research by the auctioneers
0:21:25 > 0:21:30pinpointed it to the Dunmore Pottery in Stirlingshire.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32Now it's my turn to be the expert.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35We've got some Scottish pottery going under the hammer.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- This lot are going to go mad for it, Janet.- Hope so.- They will.
0:21:38 > 0:21:41- Especially if they're called Robert. - That's right.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45Condition's good. It's unique, it's got everything going for it.
0:21:45 > 0:21:47And we're in the right place, at the right time.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49It's going under the hammer now.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54405A, the Dunmore money bank
0:21:54 > 0:21:56with the name Robert on it.
0:21:56 > 0:21:57Lots of interest.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00I'm started at 50 bid, 50 bid, 50 bid.
0:22:00 > 0:22:0355, 60, 5, 70, 5.
0:22:03 > 0:22:0680, 5, 90, 5,
0:22:06 > 0:22:10100. 100, 100. On commission.
0:22:10 > 0:22:14At 100, 110, 120. Against you at 120.
0:22:14 > 0:22:15130.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17140.
0:22:18 > 0:22:19150, 160.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23170, 180.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25Come on, come on, come on.
0:22:25 > 0:22:26190.
0:22:26 > 0:22:28190 on the telephone, at 190.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30Anyone else want in?
0:22:30 > 0:22:33At £190.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36- Yes! £190.- That's brilliant.
0:22:36 > 0:22:39- Happy?- Yes, that's lovely. - I'm ever so happy as well.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42I'm splitting the money between my granddaughter
0:22:42 > 0:22:44and my niece's wee boy.
0:22:44 > 0:22:48- OK. What are their names?- Alice and Robert.- Alice and Rob...
0:22:48 > 0:22:51Yes, of course, you said, didn't you?
0:22:51 > 0:22:54'They loved it. Now, time for Norma's watches.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57'And selling this lot is auctioneer Gavin Tavendale.'
0:22:57 > 0:23:00£50. On my left at 50, all done at 50...
0:23:00 > 0:23:02Coming up right now, we've got a real mixed lot.
0:23:02 > 0:23:05Four pocket watches, an Albert chain, a silver cigarette case.
0:23:05 > 0:23:08They belong to Norma, who can't be with us today,
0:23:08 > 0:23:10but we have James Lewis, our expert.
0:23:10 > 0:23:13And we've got £150 to £250 on this.
0:23:13 > 0:23:15I mean, this is one of the things
0:23:15 > 0:23:17- you can pretty much guarantee that these sell every time.- Yeah.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21It's something almost everybody has in their chest of drawers.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24I like the hunters, the white enamel dial with the Roman numerals.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27- It's a proper antique lot. - It is. It's a classic.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29Every family has either got
0:23:29 > 0:23:32a family Bible, a sewing machine, a typewriter, or a pocket watch.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35- Every family has got one of those things.- Yeah.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37Hopefully the bidders are here.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- Hopefully. - Precious metal prices are up.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41- It's a good time to sell. - Great time.
0:23:41 > 0:23:43Let's find out what they think, shall we?
0:23:43 > 0:23:47And we'll telephone Norma straight after the sale. OK? Here we go.
0:23:48 > 0:23:53Large lot of silver and other pocket watches.
0:23:53 > 0:23:55200? 100? 100 bid.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57- 100.- Right, we're in.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59110. 120. 130.
0:23:59 > 0:24:02140. 150. 160, in the room at 160.
0:24:02 > 0:24:07Standing at 160. All done at 160. 170.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10180. Any further away at 180?
0:24:10 > 0:24:12All done at 180? At 180.
0:24:12 > 0:24:13It's gone.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17- 180.- Bang in the middle.- Quick, wasn't it?- Yeah.- Spot on, James.
0:24:17 > 0:24:21- It is the sort of thing... It's not rocket science, pocket watches.- No.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23You see them time and time again.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26- Do you have Norma's number? - I can get it.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28- Give her a call. - I'll find it.
0:24:28 > 0:24:30Next up, we have Brenda's brooch.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33She's brought along her friend Irene for moral support.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37From a busy valuation day to a buzzing saleroom, this little
0:24:37 > 0:24:40bee brooch has travelled, and it belongs to Brenda and Irene.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42Did you like that link?
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- That was a good link, wasn't it? - Very good, Paul.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47I've worked on that for the last minute.
0:24:47 > 0:24:49Anyway, it's a lovely little brooch,
0:24:49 > 0:24:53and I can see you love your insects, lots of butterflies everywhere.
0:24:53 > 0:24:58- Why are you selling this?- So I can buy another butterfly.- Oh, are you?
0:24:58 > 0:25:02Get rid of the bee, get some more butterflies. It's a great brooch.
0:25:02 > 0:25:05It was my favourite item of the day.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09May not have been the most expensive, but it was so sweet.
0:25:09 > 0:25:12I found these little bug brooches very interesting.
0:25:12 > 0:25:14Good luck, all of you, that's all I can say,
0:25:14 > 0:25:17the room is packed full of bidders, it's a bit of quality,
0:25:17 > 0:25:19semi-precious stones, and it's Edwardian,
0:25:19 > 0:25:21so it's got everything going for it - and it's unusual.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24You won't see another. Let's find out what the bidders think.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30Bee brooch, silver gilt body. 50?
0:25:30 > 0:25:35£30? 30's bid, 35, 40, five, 50, five, 60, five.
0:25:35 > 0:25:42£70 in the back? At 70. Standing at 70? Lady's bid 80 on the telephone.
0:25:44 > 0:25:4785...85's against you.
0:25:48 > 0:25:52- 90, five... - This is great, it's flying away!
0:25:52 > 0:25:56100, 110, 120, 130...
0:25:57 > 0:26:04..140. 140 on the telephone, all done at 140? At £140...
0:26:04 > 0:26:06- That's a brilliant result.- Good.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08It had everything going for it, it was quality,
0:26:08 > 0:26:12semi-precious stones, Edwardian and it's unique.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14And that's hard to put a price on.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16Once something's finite like that
0:26:16 > 0:26:19and you don't see another for price comparison...
0:26:19 > 0:26:23- you've found a good level. - The market loves that
0:26:23 > 0:26:25- wee bit of quirky item. - No sting in the tail
0:26:25 > 0:26:28with that one, a great result.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31Now, will the train set be a runaway success?
0:26:31 > 0:26:34Carol, I can't believe the condition of these train sets,
0:26:34 > 0:26:36- your sons were never allowed to play with them.- Never.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38- Never. - What a classic boys' toy...
0:26:38 > 0:26:44Ah-ah. When I was a wee girl, my dad used to buy me train sets.
0:26:44 > 0:26:48- Not dolls.- Really?- Yeah.
0:26:48 > 0:26:52We split them into two lots now. Two groups, both at £80 to £120.
0:26:52 > 0:26:54- There's a lot of them, isn't there?- Yeah.
0:26:54 > 0:26:56Right, they're going under the hammer. This is it.
0:27:00 > 0:27:05465A, now onto this extensive collection of Tri-ang toys
0:27:05 > 0:27:11including coaches and I can start this on commission at £80. £80.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13Right, it's sold straightaway.
0:27:13 > 0:27:1590, 5, 100, 110,
0:27:15 > 0:27:19120, 130, 140, 150.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21150. Would you like in on the telephone?
0:27:21 > 0:27:25150, 150. Jocelyn, do you want in?
0:27:27 > 0:27:31We're selling in the room at £150. Any ad...
0:27:31 > 0:27:35150, 150, I can't...150.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37Any advance on 160, 170?
0:27:37 > 0:27:39180.
0:27:39 > 0:27:41190.
0:27:41 > 0:27:43190. 190.
0:27:43 > 0:27:47Any advance on 190? Selling in the room at 190.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49Does he want to bid at 190?
0:27:49 > 0:27:51200.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53- 200!- 200.
0:27:53 > 0:27:54220.
0:27:56 > 0:27:57240.
0:27:57 > 0:27:59Oh, my goodness.
0:27:59 > 0:28:06260. In the room at £260. Any advance on £260?
0:28:06 > 0:28:09- Yes.- Carol, that's a great result. - Yes.
0:28:09 > 0:28:12One down, one to go. Let's hope we get the same.
0:28:12 > 0:28:19480A. The Tri-ang Double O gauge. Who'd like to start me at £100?
0:28:19 > 0:28:22100. 50. 50 bid.
0:28:22 > 0:28:2655. 60. 5. 70. 5. 80.
0:28:26 > 0:28:305. 85. Would you like in on the phone?
0:28:30 > 0:28:3385, 85. 90. 5.
0:28:33 > 0:28:39100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150
0:28:39 > 0:28:41160.
0:28:41 > 0:28:47160. Right at the back at 160. Any advance on £160?
0:28:47 > 0:28:49- A very good result.- Good. - Still good. Still good.
0:28:49 > 0:28:52- That's great. - That's brilliant, isn't it?
0:28:52 > 0:28:56It just goes to show, you've got to look after your toys.
0:28:56 > 0:29:01So that's a grand total of £420 for Carol. Brilliant result.
0:29:01 > 0:29:02And there's more to come.
0:29:04 > 0:29:09Anita meets someone who's keeping shtoom about her antique.
0:29:09 > 0:29:12- But what did you use that for? - Well, I wouldn't like to tell you.
0:29:15 > 0:29:18And James can't believe his luck.
0:29:18 > 0:29:20Thank you for bringing that in.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22- I'm thrilled.- James's eyes popped out on stalks.
0:29:25 > 0:29:29First, though, I got a chance to delve a bit deeper into the history of Fife.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41MUSIC: SCOTTISH LAMENT
0:29:52 > 0:29:56Looking at this stunning countryside here in Fife,
0:29:56 > 0:30:02it's hard to imagine this landscape has concealed a dark secret.
0:30:04 > 0:30:09The entrance to it is in this rather ordinary-looking building.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13Hidden deep below is an amazing network of corridors and rooms
0:30:13 > 0:30:17amounting to about 24,000 square feet of accommodation.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22Large enough to house up to 300 of Scotland's most important people
0:30:22 > 0:30:25in the event of a nuclear attack.
0:30:27 > 0:30:31The main corridor, around 150 yards long and quite intimidating.
0:30:31 > 0:30:33The further into this bunker you get,
0:30:33 > 0:30:36you feel like the walls are closing in on you.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38It's like being in a prison, there's no escape.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41Quite frightening for the people working down here,
0:30:41 > 0:30:43not knowing what was going on at ground level.
0:30:45 > 0:30:48This top secret bunker was constructed at the height of the Cold War
0:30:48 > 0:30:51and was the place where, should the worst happen,
0:30:51 > 0:30:56Scotland's top brass would come to run the country.
0:30:56 > 0:30:58In the event of a nuclear attack, these big doors,
0:30:58 > 0:31:01called blast doors, they would seal shut -
0:31:01 > 0:31:03they weigh three tonnes - closing you in.
0:31:03 > 0:31:05Now that is scary.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14It remained on the Official Secrets list until 1993,
0:31:14 > 0:31:16when it was decommissioned
0:31:16 > 0:31:19as the atmosphere improved between the East and the West.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21That year it was put up for sale
0:31:21 > 0:31:24and bought by Peter Gordon and his brother, Paul.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27Peter, thank goodness I bumped into you,
0:31:27 > 0:31:28I thought I was going to get lost.
0:31:28 > 0:31:32- There's a lot of corridor here. - Like a rabbit warren, this place.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34How did you find this place?
0:31:34 > 0:31:38- It was advertised in the local paper as a country farmhouse.- Yeah.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40- Full stop. That was it?- Yeah.
0:31:40 > 0:31:43And what did the estate agent say then?
0:31:43 > 0:31:46- He showed us round the farmhouse upstairs.- Yeah.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49Eventually he said, "I've one more thing to show you.
0:31:49 > 0:31:52- "This place has rather a large cellar."- Wow.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54- And now you're a museum owner. - Mm-hm.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- Right, well, all I can say is let's have a tour. That way?- Yeah.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01- Incredible. It really is. - Tell me about it.
0:32:08 > 0:32:11Well, after miles and miles of corridor
0:32:11 > 0:32:14we're finally into a room, and thank goodness, it's got a tall ceiling.
0:32:14 > 0:32:16Not too claustrophobic.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19How did they build this without locals knowing?
0:32:19 > 0:32:21You can't build that overnight.
0:32:21 > 0:32:26It took approximately two years to build. It was highly secret, OK?
0:32:26 > 0:32:31It was built by the MOD and a few locals, sworn to secrecy.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35Whilst the bunker was being built, a hole 135 feet deep
0:32:35 > 0:32:39and then filled with gravel to 35 feet, then the bunker put on top.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41The reason for the gravel was
0:32:41 > 0:32:45to give it a shock absorber effect if a bomb landed.
0:32:46 > 0:32:48The walls are eight to ten feet thick
0:32:48 > 0:32:51and constructed from around 40,000 tonnes of concrete,
0:32:51 > 0:32:55which is reinforced with 26,000 tonnes of steel.
0:32:57 > 0:32:59So what period is this?
0:32:59 > 0:33:03This is 1950, so this is one of the first rooms created in the bunker
0:33:03 > 0:33:04in 1951.
0:33:04 > 0:33:07The Royal Observer Corps, they would be out there
0:33:07 > 0:33:10with their binoculars looking for planes.
0:33:10 > 0:33:15You see the board here, they would scramble the jets at Leuchars,
0:33:15 > 0:33:17which is our most northerly fighter base.
0:33:17 > 0:33:21All that became obsolete within six years of the bunker being built,
0:33:21 > 0:33:23due to radar.
0:33:25 > 0:33:27But it wasn't the end for the bunker.
0:33:27 > 0:33:29Over the years, it was updated.
0:33:29 > 0:33:32And, in 1968, took on the role of being the base
0:33:32 > 0:33:36for the regional HQ of Scotland in the event of nuclear war.
0:33:39 > 0:33:43Facilities included dormitories, a medical room, canteen,
0:33:43 > 0:33:46even a studio where the BBC could broadcast information
0:33:46 > 0:33:47to the public.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00So, this is the nerve centre, the control room.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03How many people would have been down here?
0:34:03 > 0:34:0746 people at any one time would be manning it.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10If an alert was announced, there were barracks up the road,
0:34:10 > 0:34:12and also down at Crail Airport.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15If the Secretary of State was in Edinburgh,
0:34:15 > 0:34:18he'd be flown to Turnhouse, flown across the Forth,
0:34:18 > 0:34:21land at Crail, be shipped up here.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- His entourage would be the council workers.- Yeah.
0:34:23 > 0:34:27So you have that Social Security, the Treasury.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30They all worked as a team.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33As soon as he was here with his entourage,
0:34:33 > 0:34:35that was it, the bunker was sealed.
0:34:40 > 0:34:43From here we had direct contact with London.
0:34:43 > 0:34:49- So...that's main operations there with the red phones etc.- Yeah.
0:34:49 > 0:34:51Is that THE phone, the three-minute warning phone?
0:34:51 > 0:34:54That's right. The codes would come through that phone.
0:34:54 > 0:34:59I would then relay their number, plus my number through the second phone.
0:34:59 > 0:35:01That would be the Secretary of State's room.
0:35:01 > 0:35:06Behind him is the nuclear keys, in a small safe,
0:35:06 > 0:35:11and he would use them, and all hell would break loose after that.
0:35:11 > 0:35:16- This is great modern-day history. - Yes.- Good for you for preserving it.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19This is a phenomenal place and people are so pleased.
0:35:19 > 0:35:22You can see it in their faces. They're totally aghast,
0:35:22 > 0:35:25- not realising just what went on. - Yeah.
0:35:25 > 0:35:27Their secret heritage.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30That was a sobering experience.
0:35:30 > 0:35:33The first nuclear bunker I've ever been in.
0:35:33 > 0:35:35It's thanks to the dedication of Peter and his brother
0:35:35 > 0:35:38because a very important piece of 20th-century history
0:35:38 > 0:35:40has now been preserved.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57The sun is still shining at Balbirnie House.
0:35:57 > 0:36:00Let's join everybody and see what other surprises we can find.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07Off to a good start when Anita spots Hilda,
0:36:07 > 0:36:08who has brought in a silver jug.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12Where did you get this wee jug?
0:36:12 > 0:36:14Well, it was actually my dad's.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18There was a sugar bowl and a biscuit barrel.
0:36:18 > 0:36:20It was a matching set.
0:36:20 > 0:36:25But the biscuit barrel had went a wee bit wrong
0:36:25 > 0:36:27because my dad was a painter
0:36:27 > 0:36:32and couldn't find a place to put his brushes to steep in turpentine.
0:36:32 > 0:36:35- So he got this idea of putting it in the biscuit barrel.- Oh, no!
0:36:35 > 0:36:40- What did you use that for? - Well, I wouldn't like to tell you.
0:36:41 > 0:36:46- OK, let's have a wee look at it. Quite a handsome little jug.- Yeah.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49High Victorian. Lots of elaborate decoration.
0:36:49 > 0:36:53And we see this scrolling around the top,
0:36:53 > 0:36:58what's interesting here, and this I have seen before, many times,
0:36:58 > 0:37:03in these little columns, we have the signs of the zodiac.
0:37:03 > 0:37:07And, at that time, there was interest in mysticism and the future,
0:37:07 > 0:37:10- and astrology, and so on.- Yeah.
0:37:10 > 0:37:15And it's reflected in these little designs here.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19Made in Glasgow, and if we look at the bottom of it,
0:37:19 > 0:37:23we see the Glasgow assay mark,
0:37:23 > 0:37:26which is the tree, the bell and the bird.
0:37:26 > 0:37:32- And we have a date letter for 1875. - Oh.
0:37:32 > 0:37:36Yeah, that's all the good news, Hilda. Do you want the bad news?
0:37:36 > 0:37:41- You better give me the bad news. - It's only a bit of something.
0:37:41 > 0:37:43Like myself.
0:37:44 > 0:37:47So it would have been part of a big set.
0:37:47 > 0:37:50Have you thought about price, Hilda?
0:37:50 > 0:37:54- I thought maybe, say 75. - Ah-ha.- You know.
0:37:54 > 0:37:59- That's a wee bit dear for an auction estimate.- Ah-ha.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02I would feel comfortable in it going to auction
0:38:02 > 0:38:06between £30 and £50.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09- That'll do fine. - It may go more than that.- Ah-ha.
0:38:09 > 0:38:14But I think that is a reasonable estimate to put it in at.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18- And we will put a firm reserve...- Yes...- ..of £30 on it.
0:38:18 > 0:38:21- Ah-ha.- But I'm confident it will do more than that.
0:38:21 > 0:38:26Oh, well, that's good. It's just that it's lying in a drawer
0:38:26 > 0:38:29and it's not getting appreciated.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32It would be nice for somebody to have it who appreciates it
0:38:32 > 0:38:34and into silver.
0:38:34 > 0:38:36Because it's just getting wasted.
0:38:36 > 0:38:38Thank you for bringing it along.
0:38:38 > 0:38:41I look forward to seeing you at the auction.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44- Sure it'll do well. - Looking forward to it. Thank you.
0:38:44 > 0:38:49With any luck, it actually might meet up with the other three pieces
0:38:49 > 0:38:50and become a set again.
0:38:50 > 0:38:52Oh, well, I hope so.
0:38:52 > 0:38:55- But not the biscuit barrel. - Not the biscuit barrel.
0:38:55 > 0:38:59It's such a lovely piece,
0:38:59 > 0:39:02someone at the auction is bound to fall in love with it.
0:39:04 > 0:39:06Well, we can't let Bella down, can we?
0:39:06 > 0:39:11Look at that, Bella, there you go. Good girl.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15Connie has brought along an exotic panel that has intrigued James.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19Connie, I have to say, I was not expecting to find
0:39:19 > 0:39:24a piece of Japanese art here in Fife.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26Well, I've had it a long time.
0:39:26 > 0:39:30I inherited it and I don't know where my father got it.
0:39:30 > 0:39:36- Really?- Yes.- Well, as I say, Japanese Meiji period.
0:39:36 > 0:39:41- 1880 to 1910.- Ah, right. - Something made around there.
0:39:41 > 0:39:46It is a panel that probably started life in a very fine cabinet.
0:39:46 > 0:39:50The other option is it might have been a decorative plaque
0:39:50 > 0:39:51in its own right
0:39:51 > 0:39:55that would have had a black ebonised frame around it when sold.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57Let's look at the design as a whole.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00We have at the top here this rockwork,
0:40:00 > 0:40:03which is carved out of softwood.
0:40:03 > 0:40:08Here, little sections of leafage and foliage carved in bone.
0:40:08 > 0:40:12- Right.- Do you think that's a chrysanthemum?- I would think so.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14- Something like that, carved in mother-of-pearl.- Yes.
0:40:14 > 0:40:18But this is where the real work comes in.
0:40:18 > 0:40:22These three figures here are just wonderful.
0:40:22 > 0:40:24This is hand lacquer
0:40:24 > 0:40:28and the gold lines are gold paint.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30- Very fine.- Very fine.
0:40:30 > 0:40:34- Painted probably with a brush with only one bristle.- Yes.
0:40:34 > 0:40:36- A piece of ivory, stained green.- Oh, right.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39- And the flautist has lost his flute.- Yes.
0:40:39 > 0:40:42But still absolutely wonderful quality.
0:40:42 > 0:40:46Tell me, was your father a collector or...?
0:40:46 > 0:40:48Not really, he liked nice things,
0:40:48 > 0:40:50but there wasn't money about.
0:40:50 > 0:40:54But in the early '20s, he worked in Burma for eight or nine years.
0:40:54 > 0:40:55Did he?
0:40:55 > 0:41:00As an agent, to bring supplies in for the British workers.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03This might actually have been brought back from Burma.
0:41:03 > 0:41:07He certainly never went to Japan, I know that for sure.
0:41:07 > 0:41:12This has been in your family for so long. Sure you want to sell?
0:41:12 > 0:41:16I would have to think what value you put on it and decide.
0:41:16 > 0:41:21It's the sort of thing that's very fashionable at the moment.
0:41:21 > 0:41:24When we decide on value, these are things we look for.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28Provenance, we haven't got a great provenance, it was your father's,
0:41:28 > 0:41:30but we don't know where it came from.
0:41:30 > 0:41:33We look at quality. The quality is fabulous.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36Lovely quality, so that's in its favour. Condition.
0:41:36 > 0:41:39Condition isn't bad, but not great.
0:41:39 > 0:41:42We've got sections of wood missing here. That's easy.
0:41:42 > 0:41:45All we need is a bit of ebonised wood to go in there.
0:41:45 > 0:41:49And that can be sorted. The flute is more difficult.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52- And we've also got it starting to warp at the top.- Yes.
0:41:52 > 0:41:57Let's put a decent estimate on it. If it doesn't sell, have it back.
0:41:57 > 0:41:59£300-£500. How about that?
0:41:59 > 0:42:05- What reserve would you recommend? - Well...- I was going to say 400.
0:42:05 > 0:42:10If you'd be happy at 400, let's put 400 and an estimate of four to six.
0:42:10 > 0:42:14- 450. - 450, with discretion, so that...
0:42:14 > 0:42:18- Give the auctioneer discretion, so he can let it go at 400.- Yes.
0:42:18 > 0:42:22So 400-600, 450 reserve, with discretion.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25- Right.- Is that all right? - That's OK. Yes.
0:42:25 > 0:42:27- Brilliant. Let's give it a go. - Thank you.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30If you decide, you come to the auction and say,
0:42:30 > 0:42:33"I've lived with this all my life, I don't want to let it go."
0:42:33 > 0:42:37The deal isn't done till the gavel's down. You've time.
0:42:37 > 0:42:40- Yes.- All right.- Thanks very much.
0:42:40 > 0:42:42Pleasure. Thank you for bringing it.
0:42:42 > 0:42:47- I love it. The quality is great. - Right. Thank you.
0:42:47 > 0:42:50Connie quite rightly drove a hard bargain there.
0:42:50 > 0:42:54You need to make sure you safeguard yourself when selling at auction.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56There are still people waiting
0:42:56 > 0:42:59and all manner of objects to be inspected.
0:42:59 > 0:43:01The Scots Magazine.
0:43:03 > 0:43:06The proceedings of the political club.
0:43:06 > 0:43:08Weekly essays.
0:43:08 > 0:43:13Printed in January 1743. What a lovely leather-bound volume.
0:43:13 > 0:43:16Very nice. Not a great deal of value.
0:43:16 > 0:43:18I'm sorry.
0:43:18 > 0:43:21I hate to be the purveyor of bad news.
0:43:21 > 0:43:25Let's hope Anita has got some better news for Alison.
0:43:27 > 0:43:32Thank you for bringing in this lovely wee carriage clock.
0:43:32 > 0:43:34Where did you get it?
0:43:34 > 0:43:39Right, I unearthed it this morning from the loft
0:43:39 > 0:43:41and I believe it belonged to my grandmother
0:43:41 > 0:43:46and she passed it down to my aunt.
0:43:46 > 0:43:51And it hasn't been used, but I found the key and wound it up
0:43:51 > 0:43:54and was amazed when it started ticking.
0:43:54 > 0:43:58It's ticking away as we speak.
0:43:58 > 0:44:01That's testament to the craftsmanship involved
0:44:01 > 0:44:03in the making of that clock.
0:44:03 > 0:44:05It is a delightful clock.
0:44:05 > 0:44:09I always like the craftsmanship involved
0:44:09 > 0:44:13in carriage clocks where you have these nice bevelled panels.
0:44:13 > 0:44:15The face is made of brass
0:44:15 > 0:44:19and we have this delightful sea-scroll on the dial.
0:44:20 > 0:44:23We have the key and a hanging handle
0:44:23 > 0:44:27so we really have everything going for that clock.
0:44:27 > 0:44:31- This clock would date from 1880. - Right.
0:44:31 > 0:44:36That would be the date of it. And it's over 100 years old.
0:44:36 > 0:44:40130 years old so it's a good age, still going well.
0:44:40 > 0:44:44It probably needs a wee clean. But that's about all.
0:44:44 > 0:44:46Gosh, that's surprising.
0:44:46 > 0:44:49An auction estimate on this
0:44:49 > 0:44:54would be between £100 and £150.
0:44:54 > 0:44:58Would you be happy to sell it at that price?
0:44:58 > 0:45:03Erm, yes, I've thought about this and I would be prepared to.
0:45:03 > 0:45:07Ah-ha. We will put a reserve price of £100 on it.
0:45:07 > 0:45:10But if it sells, and I'm sure it will, it will go to a collector,
0:45:10 > 0:45:15it will go to someone who will tidy it up, clean it up,
0:45:15 > 0:45:18put it on the mantelpiece and get pleasure from it.
0:45:18 > 0:45:20- Shall we go for it? - I think we should.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23Tell me what you would spend the money on.
0:45:23 > 0:45:27Well, I think I'm going to donate the money to my daughter.
0:45:27 > 0:45:33She drew my attention to the fact that the valuation was here today,
0:45:33 > 0:45:37and she's driven me here. She helped unearth it this morning.
0:45:37 > 0:45:40So I think she'd be deserving of the money.
0:45:40 > 0:45:44- That's very nice of you. You're a nice mum.- Thank you.
0:45:47 > 0:45:48James, welcome.
0:45:48 > 0:45:50I have to say I don't think it's just the name we have in common,
0:45:50 > 0:45:52looking at what you have brought along today.
0:45:52 > 0:45:55You obviously love tribal art. It is a passion of mine.
0:45:55 > 0:45:56Tell me how you came to have it.
0:45:56 > 0:46:02- Well, this one I picked up at auction for £15.- 15?- Yes.- Gosh.
0:46:02 > 0:46:05- Well, that is not expensive.- No. - And how about the little lady?
0:46:05 > 0:46:06I got that from a friend.
0:46:06 > 0:46:09She knew I collected tribal art and now I'm trying to get rid of it,
0:46:09 > 0:46:14- because I have got more into masks.- Ah, OK. Purely masks, now?
0:46:14 > 0:46:17- Yeah.- And why the interest in tribal art?
0:46:17 > 0:46:22It started 25 years ago, when I picked up a mask in a skip.
0:46:22 > 0:46:27- In a skip?- Yeah.- Where was that? - Locally.- Just outside a house?- Yeah.
0:46:27 > 0:46:29- 25 years I have been collecting. - Right.
0:46:29 > 0:46:32Well, let's start by having a look at this one.
0:46:32 > 0:46:37Looking at the colour, and the carving, and the overall
0:46:37 > 0:46:43feel of it, it doesn't have the feel of a panel with a great deal of age.
0:46:43 > 0:46:47The first thing to look at is this little brass loop handle.
0:46:47 > 0:46:50It is a little screw-in loop that you would
0:46:50 > 0:46:55find from about 1823 to about 1900.
0:46:55 > 0:46:58Now, it doesn't necessarily mean that the panel is of that age.
0:46:58 > 0:47:02But then if we have a look on the back, there is an oval label,
0:47:02 > 0:47:04Pickfords label.
0:47:04 > 0:47:09And that is a certainly pre-1950s, pre-Second World War label.
0:47:09 > 0:47:11So that tells us that this
0:47:11 > 0:47:14panel has been installed before the Second World War.
0:47:14 > 0:47:15We can date it to there.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18And of course, if it has been installed,
0:47:18 > 0:47:20then it hasn't been handled, it hasn't been rubbed.
0:47:20 > 0:47:23So I think we need to be fairly open-minded
0:47:23 > 0:47:25when it comes to age with this.
0:47:25 > 0:47:27The actual origins,
0:47:27 > 0:47:32there are various indications here as to what part of Africa it is from.
0:47:32 > 0:47:37If we look at the head, with these necklaces, this is typical
0:47:37 > 0:47:41Benin style carving, so Nigeria, that sort of area of Africa.
0:47:41 > 0:47:45They were the countries that would go
0:47:45 > 0:47:52and find Africans from other tribes and sell them to the West as slaves.
0:47:52 > 0:47:55- But these are children. - I think these are kids.
0:47:55 > 0:48:01Yes, these are young boys who are being captured by the Benin
0:48:01 > 0:48:05and here we have the ropes. This chap here has got a machete.
0:48:05 > 0:48:10Two machetes here and, look, holding this child up who is still...
0:48:10 > 0:48:15he is sucking his thumb. So all symbolism of childhood.
0:48:15 > 0:48:19Arms tied behind the back here, arms tied behind the back here,
0:48:19 > 0:48:23so I think we have got an interesting panel here.
0:48:23 > 0:48:29It is in my opinion 1900, 1920. Probably an early tourist panel.
0:48:29 > 0:48:34Wilberforce, back in the early 19th century, abolish slavery in the UK.
0:48:34 > 0:48:37So it wasn't something we were very, rightly so, it wasn't
0:48:37 > 0:48:39something we were very proud of.
0:48:39 > 0:48:41So throughout the 19th century,
0:48:41 > 0:48:45you didn't see any sort of symbolism in this country relating to slavery.
0:48:45 > 0:48:49And I don't see why you would have done by the many
0:48:49 > 0:48:54people in Africa, either. So this could even be 100 years later.
0:48:54 > 0:49:00So, interesting. Now, that is wonderful. I absolutely love it.
0:49:00 > 0:49:02But if you ask me where it's from,
0:49:02 > 0:49:05the honest answer is I really don't know.
0:49:05 > 0:49:10It is definitely tribal, definitely a very basic ladle.
0:49:10 > 0:49:13Formed as an open-mouthed head.
0:49:13 > 0:49:17But the interesting thing is the symbols around it.
0:49:17 > 0:49:22Which are symbols of water. We have got a turtle here.
0:49:22 > 0:49:26These are symbols that are found throughout Africa
0:49:26 > 0:49:29but also central and southern America.
0:49:29 > 0:49:33Facially, it looks more African and South American to me.
0:49:33 > 0:49:35I thought African myself.
0:49:35 > 0:49:39When it comes to value, I feel that is the earliest one...
0:49:40 > 0:49:42..but that is possibly the more commercial one.
0:49:42 > 0:49:45I think £15 was an absolute steal.
0:49:48 > 0:49:52I think that is worth £60 or £70 and I think that is worth
0:49:52 > 0:49:55- another £50.- Right.
0:49:55 > 0:50:00- If we said £80-£120?- Great. - How do you feel?- Yeah, that's...
0:50:00 > 0:50:03Are you happy with that or were you hoping for more?
0:50:03 > 0:50:05- I was hoping for more. - What were you hoping for?
0:50:05 > 0:50:06I was hoping for...
0:50:08 > 0:50:11- ..the top end.- So, £120?- Yes.
0:50:11 > 0:50:16Well, these things belong to you, when they have gone, they have gone.
0:50:16 > 0:50:18Why don't you stick 120 on them as a reserve?
0:50:18 > 0:50:22- And we will put 120-150 as an estimate.- Right.- Happy?
0:50:22 > 0:50:27- Fine with that, yes.- Let's do that. And let's take it to auction and see how we do.- Thank you very much.
0:50:31 > 0:50:34Now it's time to head off to the auction room.
0:50:36 > 0:50:40It's filled to capacity and things have been fetching good prices
0:50:40 > 0:50:42so I have high hopes for our lots.
0:50:42 > 0:50:45Here's a quick reminder of what we're selling.
0:50:45 > 0:50:48Hilda's silver jug, engraved with the signs of the zodiac.
0:50:49 > 0:50:53James' African wood panel and ladle.
0:50:53 > 0:50:56Alison's lovely little Victorian carriage clock.
0:50:57 > 0:51:00And Connie's decorative Japanese panel.
0:51:04 > 0:51:07First, let's see if the carriage clock goes down well
0:51:07 > 0:51:09with the bidders.
0:51:09 > 0:51:11Going under the hammer, a brass carriage clock.
0:51:11 > 0:51:12It belongs to Alison.
0:51:12 > 0:51:15She can't be with us today. She's on holiday in America.
0:51:15 > 0:51:20But we do have her sister-in-law with us as a substitute, aren't you?
0:51:20 > 0:51:23- Yes.- Good to see you, Helen. - Thank you.- Nice clock.
0:51:23 > 0:51:25Very nice, yes.
0:51:25 > 0:51:28Good luck. It's going under the hammer now.
0:51:29 > 0:51:3345-50A. The brass carriage clock.
0:51:33 > 0:51:39With fluted columns. £100 for the nice carriage clock. 100.
0:51:39 > 0:51:43- I've got 80 bid. - 80 bid.- We're in.
0:51:43 > 0:51:4580 bid. Who is going on? At 80 bid.
0:51:45 > 0:51:4785, 90,
0:51:47 > 0:51:515, 100, 110, 110.
0:51:51 > 0:51:54Beside me at 110. Any advance on 110?
0:51:54 > 0:51:56120.
0:51:57 > 0:52:01At £120.
0:52:01 > 0:52:03- Brilliant.- Good.- Thanks very much.
0:52:03 > 0:52:06Will you be able to call her on the phone?
0:52:06 > 0:52:11- She'll be phoning.- OK.- Lovely. - Thanks a lot.- Thank you.
0:52:11 > 0:52:13So we're off to a good start.
0:52:13 > 0:52:17Next up, we have James's African artefacts.
0:52:17 > 0:52:22Going under the hammer right now, we have some tribal art in the form of an African carved panel
0:52:22 > 0:52:24and it belongs to James Brown - Mr James Brown.
0:52:24 > 0:52:28- You must've been teased with a name like that?- Yes.- Wonderful musician!
0:52:28 > 0:52:34- Don't start.- Have you got into that, as well?- No. I let him off.- Hey!
0:52:34 > 0:52:37Thank you so much for bringing this tribal art in,
0:52:37 > 0:52:40it is a stand-alone piece in the sale room today.
0:52:40 > 0:52:43- Will it do the top end? - It would be nice.
0:52:43 > 0:52:47- There isn't a lot of tribal art in here today.- It's the only piece.
0:52:47 > 0:52:51So, I'm slightly nervous about that. Hmm, we'll see.
0:52:51 > 0:52:54We're going to find out. It's going under the hammer right now.
0:52:54 > 0:52:56Let's give it up for Mr James Brown. Here it is.
0:52:57 > 0:53:01The Nigerian Ghanaian figure, decorated with tribal panels.
0:53:01 > 0:53:06Very nice one. And the painted wood ladle which is symbolising water.
0:53:06 > 0:53:08£100 for the two?
0:53:08 > 0:53:11£50 to start them surely.
0:53:11 > 0:53:1350 I bid. 60 with me. 70.
0:53:13 > 0:53:1580. 90 there.
0:53:16 > 0:53:18Any advance on £90? 100.
0:53:18 > 0:53:21I think it's a telephone bid, James.
0:53:21 > 0:53:23110. 120, beside me. Any advance on £120?
0:53:23 > 0:53:28We've sold it, haven't we? That was the reserve.
0:53:28 > 0:53:29130.
0:53:29 > 0:53:31140.
0:53:33 > 0:53:35150. 160.
0:53:35 > 0:53:37Great!
0:53:37 > 0:53:42170. 170, you finished now at 170?
0:53:42 > 0:53:46- All done at 170 on the telephone? At 170?- Yes, the hammer's gone down!
0:53:46 > 0:53:48It was a quiet hammer going down, wasn't it?
0:53:48 > 0:53:51- I should go buy another mask.- Yeah, this tribal art is really on the up.
0:53:51 > 0:53:53- Yes, so, tribal masks it is?- Yes.
0:53:53 > 0:53:56That's what you're going to invest in? More of them?
0:53:56 > 0:53:59- How many have you got right now? - About 40.
0:53:59 > 0:54:01- Wow, are they all on a wall in a big room?- Yes.
0:54:01 > 0:54:05- Are any of them quite frightening? - Yeah.- They're quite frightening!
0:54:05 > 0:54:09Now, will the stars be smiling brightly on the zodiac jug?
0:54:11 > 0:54:15Hopefully, lots of local interest on this next item, a silver jug,
0:54:15 > 0:54:18- Glasgow 1875. It belongs to Hilda. - Yes.
0:54:18 > 0:54:22- Why are you selling this? - Well, I'm not interested in it.
0:54:22 > 0:54:27- Aren't you?- And it's been in the family for so...- Long time?
0:54:27 > 0:54:31And I would sell it for somebody to appreciate it.
0:54:31 > 0:54:34If you've got something tucked away in a cupboard
0:54:34 > 0:54:36and you don't love it,
0:54:36 > 0:54:40pass it on to someone else who does like it and who will enjoy it.
0:54:40 > 0:54:43Hoping it might go towards the top.
0:54:43 > 0:54:47- Maybe a bit more.- That's good. - It's not going to soar.- No.
0:54:49 > 0:54:52- But it will be fancied. - Oh, yes. Yes.
0:54:52 > 0:54:56It's down to that lot, really, isn't it?
0:54:56 > 0:54:59Let's find out what they think.
0:55:01 > 0:55:05255E. Victorian silver zodiac cream jug there.
0:55:07 > 0:55:0950, 30, £20 to make a start.
0:55:09 > 0:55:12£20 is bid. 2, 5, 8.
0:55:12 > 0:55:1430, 2, 5
0:55:14 > 0:55:1638, 40,
0:55:16 > 0:55:192, 5, 48.
0:55:19 > 0:55:2148 is the latest bid.
0:55:22 > 0:55:25- 50. - There's fresh bids over there.
0:55:29 > 0:55:345, 60, 5, 65. Latest bid at 65.
0:55:34 > 0:55:37Are we all done at £65?
0:55:37 > 0:55:43- Good price.- Great price. Top end, plus.- Oh, smashing.
0:55:43 > 0:55:44Smashing.
0:55:44 > 0:55:46Terrific.
0:55:46 > 0:55:47If you've more silver,
0:55:47 > 0:55:50bring it along to another "Flog It!" valuation.
0:55:50 > 0:55:53- I will do that.- OK. See you in a year's time.
0:55:53 > 0:55:56Well, maybe see you before.
0:55:56 > 0:56:00So the zodiac jug exceeded its predicted value.
0:56:00 > 0:56:04Now it's time to sell our final lot, the ivory panel.
0:56:04 > 0:56:07Auctioneer William Smith is wielding the gavel.
0:56:09 > 0:56:12It's that wonderful Japanese carved wooden panel,
0:56:12 > 0:56:14inset with some ivory figures.
0:56:14 > 0:56:19- Connie wants a laptop. You want to be mobile.- Yes.
0:56:19 > 0:56:21£400-600, you put the valuation on this.
0:56:21 > 0:56:23The auctioneer agrees with the valuation.
0:56:23 > 0:56:26Hopefully it's going to go back to the Orient.
0:56:26 > 0:56:29Lots of oriental works in this sale. Perfect.
0:56:29 > 0:56:31That could turn into a laptop, couldn't it?
0:56:31 > 0:56:35In literally two minutes because it's going under the hammer now.
0:56:35 > 0:56:38Let's watch the result and see what happens. Here it is.
0:56:42 > 0:56:49Now we're onto 125A, this very nice 19th-century lacquered wood panel.
0:56:49 > 0:56:53A lot of commissions on this one. We're starting the bidding at £550.
0:56:53 > 0:56:57Straight in, Connie. No problem there.
0:56:57 > 0:57:02Any advance on £550 for the panel? With me on commission at 550.
0:57:02 > 0:57:05600. 650.
0:57:07 > 0:57:09700. 750.
0:57:09 > 0:57:12750 against.
0:57:12 > 0:57:14800. 850.
0:57:14 > 0:57:16950.
0:57:17 > 0:57:19Top of the range laptop.
0:57:21 > 0:57:23£1,000 with me.
0:57:23 > 0:57:26Wow, he's got a bid on the book. and somebody on the telephone.
0:57:26 > 0:57:28They're going bonkers over it.
0:57:29 > 0:57:33£1,100. Any advance on 1,100 for it?
0:57:33 > 0:57:37Behind me on the telephone at £1,100.
0:57:37 > 0:57:39All done at £1,100.
0:57:39 > 0:57:43- Wasn't that brilliant!- Thank you for picking me.- My pleasure.
0:57:43 > 0:57:48Thank you for bringing that in. James' eyes popped out on stalks.
0:57:48 > 0:57:54- £600 more.- That is brilliant, isn't it?- Well done.
0:57:54 > 0:57:57- So that'll give you a laptop. - And more, and more.
0:57:57 > 0:57:59Thank you so much.
0:57:59 > 0:58:03What a wonderful end to a wonderful day here, just outside of Edinburgh.
0:58:03 > 0:58:06I hope you've enjoyed the show. Join us again on "Flog It!"
0:58:06 > 0:58:12But, for now, from all of us here, especially Connie, a big goodbye.