Frequently Asked Questions

Every item we stock undergoes a rigorous authentication process. We examine construction methods, materials, tool marks and finishes consistent with the stated period. Where relevant, we verify hallmarks, maker's marks and signatures against established reference databases maintained by specialist institutions.

For higher-value pieces, we commission independent expert opinions or scientific analysis such as dendrochronology for timber dating, thermoluminescence for ceramics, and professional assaying for precious metals. Our team has decades of combined experience identifying the subtle distinctions between genuine period pieces and later reproductions.

We always provide a detailed condition report with every purchase. This document describes the item's construction, materials, age indicators and any restorations or modifications we have identified. You can request additional photography or video before committing to a purchase.

Wherever possible, yes. Many of our pieces arrive with existing provenance records, auction house catalogues, family histories or prior dealer documentation. We preserve and pass on all such records to the new owner. For items acquired from estates, we typically receive background notes from the executors which we include with the sale.

Not every antique arrives with a paper trail. In these cases, we rely on physical evidence: hallmarks, maker's stamps, construction techniques and stylistic analysis to establish the most accurate dating and attribution possible. We are always transparent about what we know and what remains uncertain.

Every sale includes our own written description documenting the item's estimated period, origin, materials and condition. This serves as a valuable reference for insurance purposes and future resale.

We stand behind every item we sell. If a piece is subsequently proven to be materially different from our description, for example if an item described as 18th century is later established by independent expert analysis to be a 20th century reproduction, we will accept the return and issue a full refund regardless of how much time has passed since the sale.

This guarantee applies to factual claims about age, material composition, maker attribution and hallmarks. It does not cover subjective assessments of aesthetic quality or value appreciation. We encourage buyers to commission their own independent appraisals for particularly significant purchases, and we are happy to recommend reputable specialists.

We take enormous care with every shipment. Smaller items such as porcelain, jewellery and silverware are double-boxed with acid-free tissue, multiple layers of bubble wrap and custom-cut foam inserts designed to prevent any movement during transit. Fragile ceramics receive individual compartmentalised packaging to eliminate contact between pieces.

Larger furniture pieces are wrapped in quilted transit blankets and placed in bespoke wooden crates built to the exact dimensions of each item. We work exclusively with specialist fine art and antique carriers who use air-ride vehicles, climate-controlled storage and trained two-person delivery teams.

Every shipment is fully insured to the complete sale value at no additional cost to you. We photograph items before packing and provide tracking information so you can follow your purchase from our gallery to your doorstep. Should any damage occur in transit, our claims process is straightforward and we handle all correspondence with the carrier on your behalf.

Delivery timescales depend on the size and nature of the item. Smaller pieces sent via our specialist courier partners typically arrive within 3 to 5 working days anywhere in the UK mainland. Larger furniture items requiring bespoke crating and dedicated transport are usually delivered within 7 to 14 working days, depending on your location and the carrier's schedule.

Shipping costs vary by item size and destination. For small to medium items (porcelain, silver, jewellery, clocks), standard insured delivery within England and Wales starts from £15. Scottish Highlands and Islands deliveries may incur a modest surcharge. Large furniture deliveries are quoted individually based on dimensions and distance, typically ranging from £45 to £150.

White-glove delivery with room placement and packaging removal is available for furniture at an additional cost. International shipping can be arranged upon request; we will provide a bespoke quotation including customs documentation assistance.

We offer a 30-day returns policy on non-unique items such as production ceramics, prints and decorative accessories. Unique or one-of-a-kind antiques, including signed paintings, bespoke furniture and individual silverware pieces, are generally sold as seen; however, if any item materially differs from its description, we will gladly accept a return and issue a full refund regardless of uniqueness.

To initiate a return, please contact us within 30 days of delivery. Items must be returned in the same condition as received, using the same standard of professional packing. We can arrange collection through our carrier network at a competitive rate if you prefer not to organise return shipping yourself.

Return shipping costs are the buyer's responsibility unless the item was misdescribed or damaged in transit. Refunds are processed within 5 working days of receiving the returned item and confirming its condition.

Yes, we offer informal valuations at no charge for items falling within our areas of expertise: furniture, silverware, porcelain and ceramics, clocks, paintings, jewellery, lighting and decorative objects. Simply send clear photographs along with any known history to [email protected] and we will respond with our assessment, typically within 48 hours.

For formal insurance or probate valuations, we work with RICS-accredited valuers and can arrange this service for a modest fee. Formal valuations are provided as written reports suitable for submission to insurers, solicitors and HMRC. The cost depends on the number of items and complexity involved, but we will always provide a clear quotation before proceeding.

Please note that our informal valuations represent our professional opinion based on current market conditions. They do not constitute a formal guarantee of value and should not be relied upon for insurance or legal purposes. We cannot guarantee to purchase every item submitted for valuation.

We work with a trusted network of specialist conservators covering furniture, silverware, ceramics, clocks, paintings and textiles. If a piece you purchase, or indeed one you already own, requires restoration, we can arrange a professional assessment and provide a detailed quotation through the appropriate specialist.

Our philosophy strongly favours conservation over heavy-handed restoration. We believe in preserving the patina, wear marks and character that make antiques genuinely special, whilst ensuring structural integrity and longevity. This approach typically protects and often enhances an item's value compared to aggressive refinishing or over-restoration.

Common services our conservators provide include furniture re-gluing and stabilisation, leather and upholstery conservation, silver replating (where appropriate), clock movement servicing, ceramic bonding and chip repair, painting cleaning and re-lining, and gilt frame restoration. Timescales and costs vary widely depending on the nature and extent of the work required.

Proper care begins with environment. Keep antique furniture away from direct sunlight, radiators and sources of excessive moisture. Aim for a stable relative humidity between 45% and 55%. Sudden temperature changes can cause timber to expand and contract, leading to splits and veneer lifting over time.

For wooden furniture, a light application of good-quality beeswax polish two or three times a year is sufficient. Avoid spray polishes containing silicone, which can build up and trap dust. For silver, store in anti-tarnish cloth or bags and polish gently with a reputable silver cream when needed, avoiding abrasive cloths on hallmarks or delicate engraving.

Porcelain and ceramics should be handled with clean, dry hands. Display items on stable surfaces away from high-traffic areas. For clocks, maintain a regular winding schedule and have the movement professionally serviced every five to seven years. We are always happy to provide specific care advice for any item you purchase from us.

We accept bank transfer (BACS/Faster Payments), Visa, Mastercard and PayPal. For items priced over £2,000, bank transfer is our preferred method as it avoids processing fees and allows us to keep our prices competitive. All card payments are processed through a secure, PCI-compliant payment gateway.

We also offer flexible payment plans for purchases exceeding £1,500. These are typically structured as two or three equal instalments spread over a mutually agreed period, usually 30 to 90 days. Payment plans are arranged by prior agreement before the item ships, and the piece remains reserved for you throughout the payment period.

All our listed prices include VAT where applicable. We issue a detailed receipt with every transaction, which also serves as proof of purchase for insurance purposes. If you require a formal invoice addressed to a business entity, we are happy to accommodate this.

Absolutely, and we warmly encourage it. Our gallery at 146 Manor Way, Borehamwood, WD6 1QX is open by appointment Monday to Saturday, 10:00 to 17:00. We operate on an appointment basis to ensure we can provide each visitor with unhurried personal attention, and so that the specific items you wish to view are accessible and properly displayed.

Appointments can be arranged by telephone on +44 20 8234 5678 or by email at [email protected]. We typically need 24 hours' notice, though we can sometimes accommodate same-day visits if our diary permits.

Borehamwood is well connected by road (close to the A1/M1 junction) and rail (Elstree & Borehamwood station, approximately 20 minutes from London St Pancras on the Thameslink line). There is ample parking available nearby. We look forward to welcoming you.

Yes, we regularly purchase from private sellers, estate executors and fellow dealers. If you have antique furniture, silver, porcelain, jewellery, clocks, paintings or decorative objects you wish to sell, we would be pleased to hear from you. The process is straightforward and begins with a simple email or telephone call.

Please send clear photographs taken in good natural light, showing the item from several angles including any maker's marks, hallmarks, signatures or labels. Include approximate dimensions and any background information you have about the piece's history or how it came into your possession. The more detail you provide, the more accurate our initial assessment will be.

We aim to respond within 48 hours with an indication of interest. If the item is within our collecting areas, we will either make an offer based on photographs or arrange to view the piece in person. For larger collections or estate clearances, we can visit your property at a mutually convenient time.

We pride ourselves on offering fair, transparent prices reflective of the current market. There is no obligation to accept our offer, and we never charge for assessments or visits within the London and Home Counties area.