Collectables

The Collectors Sale

Our Quarterly Collectors Sale brings together a carefully curated selection of rare, unusual, and historically significant objects, attracting collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts. This specialist auction provides an ideal platform for consigning unique items, with expert cataloguing and a dedicated audience of buyers seeking exceptional pieces across a wide range of collecting categories:

Scientific Instruments

Catherine began her career in the specialist Collectors Department at Sotheby’s, and her passion for historical instruments remains central to our department today. We welcome consignments of:

• Antique microscopes and specimen slides
• Early globes, planetaria and astronomical instruments
• Sundials, compasses, and navigational tools
• Surveying and engineering instruments
• Early mechanical calculators

Weapons and Militaria

Our specialists have extensive knowledge of antique weapons, artefacts and militaria, covering key collecting fields from the 17th century through to the Second World War. We regularly achieve strong results for the following:

• Flintlock or percussion pistols and rifles, including examples by renowned makers such as Holland & Holland, James Purdy & Sons, Colt, and Winchester
• Bladed weapons, including bayonets, officer’s swords, daggers, khanjar, and jambiya
• Medals
• Armour and uniforms, including cap badges, helmets and VAD nurse’s capes
• Military ephemera and historical documents
• Wartime and Trench art

Toys and games

The antique toys and games market has waned in recent years; however, collectors continue to seek nostalgic and rare pieces. Condition and maker play a role in determining - whether a tinplate automotive, lead solider or mohair teddy bear. One such example was a remarkably well-preserved George III wooden doll, that achieved £5,500 (+BP).

Musical Instruments

There remains a strong demand for antique musical instruments by recognised makers. Our sales attract musicians, collectors, and dealers seeking quality instruments with history and character. We regularly handle consignments including violins, guitars (electric, acoustic or flamenco), and wind instruments. Recent highlights include a late 19^thcentury violin, which sold for £2,800 (+BP), reflecting the enduring appeal of early, well-crafted instruments.