| What to collect ........\n\nObjects can become collectable for many reasons:\n\n\n- They epitomise the spirit of their times (i.e. rock and pop dolls).\n\n- They're only available for a limited amount of time (i.e Football strips).\n\n- They're comonly disposed of after use (magazines, comics, newspapers: particularly first issues or editions marking major newsworthy events).\n\n- They're revolutionary, innovative designs of the period, whether it's a kitchen utensil or a toy.\n\n\nIf you are going to keep items as future collectables, you should consider that the condition of the item will most likely affect the future value, so try to select items in mint or near mint condition and pay particular attention to storing your collectables carefully, so their condition remains stable.\n\n\nPerfume bottles\n\nPerfume bottles have become highly collectable in recent times and with such great bottles available, you should have no problem getting your collection started. My favourite is the Jean Paul Gaultier bottle. The curvaceous corsetted shape of the bottle reflects Gaultier's designs for Madonna, and pays tribute to the 1930s Schiaparelli 'Shocking' scent bottle, which was apprently modelled on Mae West. \n\n\nHandbags\n\nWe are currently in a golden age of the handbag. So save those pretty or unusual handbags and evening bags. For designer names such as Hermès, Prada, Christian Dior, gucci and Lulu Guiness, there is already a strong second-hand market. As with most collectables the condition of the bag is an important factor.\n\n\nChina and Pottery Tableware. \n\nThere are so many producers of good quality china and pottery tablewares, so you should have no diffeculties in finding interesting, well designed pieces that represent current styles. A good quality piece by a name designer or retailer such as Denby, royal doulton or habitat, will often increase well in value compared to unamed pieces.\n\n\nToys\n\nNostalgia is a powerful motivator when it comes to collecting, and many adults seem to end up going to auction rooms to buy back the toys of their childhood. So hang on to your old toys and games.\n\n\nHarry Potter\n\nThere is so much merchandise produced, that you'll have to wait a good while before most becomes collectable, although some items are already rising in value. The most desirable item however is a first edition hardback copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone published in 1997. Only about 300 of these were printed and already they're fetching magical prices in the region of £10,000 to £15,000!\n\n\nThe Lord of the Rings\n\nAgain Lord of the Rings is currently very popular and so the merchandise is flourishing. Games Workshop created a game, based on the film, complete with miniature plastic figures. The figure of Bilbo was only available on the day the game was released, at a price of £3, but, already these little models are changing hands for around £20. |
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