Franklin Hayes is a retired sailor with a fascination for nautical antiques. He enjoys sharing his knowledge about maritime history and the stories behind various nautical items.
As a seasoned sailor who's seen countless sunsets across the world's oceans, I've developed a deep appreciation for the art of collecting antiques. So, do people collect antiques? Absolutely, they do! Collecting antiques is a fascinating hobby enjoyed by many, from casual collectors to dedicated enthusiasts. It's a way of preserving history, appreciating craftsmanship, and sometimes even making a profitable investment. But how do they get their items? Let's delve into the world of antique hunting.
Navigating the Seas of Antique Collecting: Your Guide 🧭
Antique collecting is a journey of exploration and discovery. It's about searching for items that resonate with your personal interests, historical periods you're drawn to, or simply pieces that captivate your imagination. Collectors often specialize in certain areas such as furniture, ceramics, books, coins, or as in my case, nautical antiques. The thrill of the hunt and the joy of unearthing a hidden gem are part of the allure.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
On a Treasure Hunt: Discovering Unique Antiques 🗺
There are numerous avenues for finding unique antiques. These include antique shops, auctions, estate sales, flea markets, and online platforms. Fairfield Antiques Mall and Armadillo Antiques are two of my personal favorites. Online, eBay is a popular choice, offering a vast array of antiques from around the globe. And don't forget about thrift stores, where you can often find vintage items at a bargain.
... flea markets, and online platforms. Fairfield Antiques Mall and Armadillo Antiques are two of my personal favorites. Online, eBay is a popular choice, offering a vast array of antiques from around the globe. And don't forget about thrift stores, where you can often find vintage items at a bargain. There are numerous avenues for finding unique antiques. These include antique shops, auctions, estate sales, flea markets...
... and online platforms. Fairfield Antiques Mall and Armadillo Antiques are two of my personal favorites. Online, eBay is a popular choice, offering a vast array of antiques from around the globe. And don't forget about thrift stores, where you can often find vintage items at a bargain. [instagram_post: A photo of a beautifully curated antique shop]
Charting Your Course: Essential Tips for Antique Collecting 📚
When it comes to collecting antiques, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, do your research. Learn about different periods, styles, and makers. Understand the difference between an antique (generally an item over 100 years old), vintage (20-100 years old), and retro (less than 20 years old). This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
Second, always check the condition of the item. Look for any damage, repairs, or alterations. These factors can significantly affect the value of an antique.
Lastly, buy what you love. Whether you're collecting for investment or pleasure, choose pieces that speak to you. After all, these are items that you'll live with and treasure.
Many collectors often share their latest finds on social media, expressing their joy and excitement over the new addition to their collection. Take, for example, this tweet from an antique collector:
In this tweet, the collector shares a detailed description of their latest find, an 1834 lithograph of an oil painting, demonstrating the depth of their knowledge and the passion they have for their hobby.
Journey Down Memory Lane: The Route 66 Antique Shopping Experience 🛣
For those in the U.S., Route 66 offers a unique antique shopping experience. This historic route, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, is dotted with charming antique shops full of unique finds. Check out my Route 66 antique shopping guide for some insider tips.
Let's take a closer look at this iconic route. Below is a map that shows the Route 66 Antique Trail.
Use this map as a guide to plan your own antique hunting adventure along Route 66. Happy hunting!
Unearthing History: The Delight in Collecting Antiques 🏺
Collecting antiques is much more than a hobby. It's a journey into the past, a way of connecting with history, and an expression of personal taste. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of antiques is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
Antique Identification Quiz
Test your knowledge about different types of antiques and how to collect them!
Learn more about 🔍 Test Your Antique Knowledge with Our Antique Identification Quiz or discover other Route 66 West quizzes.
Recommended Products
Our Recommendation Sundial Compass, Vintage Marine West London Antique 2.5" Brass Sundial Compass Nautical Decor Big Brass Triangle Sundial Compass with Adjustable Screw Legs
$48.99
Our Recommendation Festcool Antique Style Blue and White Porcelain Flowers Ceramic Covered Jar Vase, China Ming Style, Jingdezhen Chinese (L1)
$36.89
Our Recommendation Arch Instrument 11" Antique Brass Armillary Sphere with Sundial Arrow Nautical Maritime Astrolabe Engraved Globe
$57.99
Our Recommendation Kyuionty 4 Sets Skeleton Key Lock Decorative Antique Red Bronze Cabinet Vintage Lock with Key and Screws for Chest Cupboard Furniture
$10.99
Our Recommendation SupplyInfinite Antique Brass Rubber Caster Wheels for Vintage Furniture | 2 Inch Wheel Diameter | Exquisite Design for Tables, Chairs, Sofas, Chests, Dressers, Cabinets, Carts and More | Set of 4
$39.95
Our Recommendation FRANSOUL Rustic Storage Cabinet with 2 Drawers and 4 Classic Rattan Basket Buffet Sideboard for Kitchen/Dining Entryway/Living Room/Home,Antique Navy
$217.99
Our Recommendation Topower American Antique Vintage Industrial Barstool Solid Wood Water Pipe Fire Hydrant Design Cafe Coffee Industrial Bar Stool Set of 2 (Red Bronze, 2)
$157.00
Our Recommendation OISII Ceramic Jug Vase Vintage Lemon Antique French Embossed Ceramic Flower Vase Heart Jug (C)
$29.99
Our Recommendation The Oil Painting Course You've Always Wanted: Guided Lessons for Beginners and Experienced Artists The Oil Painting Course You've Always Wanted: Guided Lessons for Beginners and Experienced Artists
$24.95
Our Recommendation Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide 2019 (2019)
$23.99
Our Recommendation Beverly Oaks Metal Pirate Coins - 200 Gold and Silver Spanish Doubloon Replicas - Fantasy Metal Coin Pirate Treasure - Gold, Silver, Antique and Rustic Style Finishes
$43.95 
Our Recommendation YukaBa MarshLing Antique Liberty Indian Head Ten-Dollars Coin - Great American Commemorative Old Coins- Uncirculated Morgan Dollars-Discover History of US Coins Perfect Quality
$7.97
Our Recommendation Hocus Pocus Book of Spells Leather Journal Deckle Edge Paper grimoire Journal Third Eye Vintage Leather Journal Book of Shadows Journal Antique Spell Book Witch Journal Lock Clasp Notebook 7x5 inchs
$19.95
Our Recommendation Antique Map of The World - Unframed 8x10 Wall Art Print - 1778 Bellin Nautical World Map - Vintage Office Decor -Makes a Great Gift for Relatives and Friends
$10.97
Our Recommendation Refillable Vintage Leather Journal - Book of Shadows Journal, Vintage Journal, Writing Journal, Handmade Antique Deckle Edge Paper, Vintage Leather Journal (11.7" x 8.3" - A4, Vintage Brown)
$59.95
Our Recommendation The Elements of Landscape Oil Painting: Techniques for Rendering Sky, Terrain, Trees, and Water The Elements of Landscape Oil Painting: Techniques for Rendering Sky, Terrain, Trees, and Water
$20.57
Our Recommendation Vintage Table Decorative Antique Brass Telescope Tripod Maritime Ship Instrument Functional Clear Vision Instrument Nautical Marine Handmade Collectible Gifts Home Office
$54.99
Our Recommendation Sun & Moon Vintage Leather Journal for Men & Women 200 Pages of Antique Handmade Deckle Edge Vintage Paper, Leather Sketchbook, Drawing Journal, Printed leather Journal, Great Gift (7 x 5 Inch)
$21.50
Our Recommendation Hanzla Collection 10" Antique Brass Armillary Sphere With Sundial Arrow Nautical Maritime Astrolabe Engraved Globe
$59.90
Our Recommendation Sungmor Baroque Antique Style Porcelain Dinnerware Set - Set of 2 Coffee Mugs, 18 oz Large Cups with Handle - Fancy Glaze Ceramic Mugs for Coffee, Tea, Milk and Juice - Dishwasher and Microwave Safe
$42.99
Our Recommendation ELITEART-Christ in a Storm on the Sea of Galilee By the Dutch Golden Age painter Rembrandt van Rijn Oil Painting Reproduction Giclee Wall Art Canvas Prints-Framed
$159.99
Our Recommendation SupplyInfinite Small Skeleton Key Set - Reproduction Hollow Barrel Vintage Keys for Antique Furniture | Cabinet Doors, Grandfather Clocks, Dresser Drawers | Will Not Fit Full Size Doors | Set of 10
$39.95
Our Recommendation Reproduction of Original Oil Painting on Canvas ' Annunciation ' 24x36
$577.00
Our Recommendation Hanzla Collection Maritime Compass Base Nautical Table Clock Antique Brass Hanging Desk Clock Victoria London Pocket Watch
$34.50
Our Recommendation Brass Nautical - Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass, Sundial Clock in Box Gift Sun Clock Ship Replica Watch
$38.85
Our Recommendation Ceramics in America 2020 (Ceramics in America Annual) Ceramics in America 2020 (Ceramics in America Annual)
$61.23
Our Recommendation Nautical Style Black Leather Telescope Maritime Brass Antique Double Barrel Designer Telescope W/Wooden Tripod Floor Standing Telescopic - collectiblesBuy
$149.00
Our Recommendation Hobo Coin Collection Challenge Coin E Pluribus Unum Art Vagrant Coins Collectible Commemorative Coin Antique Silver Plated Lucky Gift (Lion-01)
$9.99
Our Recommendation GRONG 8pcs Cabinet Knobs Handles Ceramic and Antique Brass Round Pulls for Drawer Closet Dresser Cupboard Wardrobe Furniture Door Kitchen,Screws Included
$13.99
Our Recommendation Vintage Leather Bound Journal | Brown 10"x7" | 288 Pages - Blank Cotton Antique Watercolor Paper | Multi-Purpose Diary for Writing, Spell Book, Travel, Art, and Scrapbooking | Handmade by Leather Village
$39.99
Our Recommendation Kingston Brass KSD154KLAB Nautical Bathroom Faucet, Antique Brass 6 x 6.31 x 9.06
$279.99
Our Recommendation Obsidian Journal (Diary, Antique Notebook) Obsidian Journal (Diary, Antique Notebook)
$11.69
People also asked
All Rights Reserved © 2024