Five reasons to add a valuation to your New Year’s resolutions list

Five reasons to add a Fine Art and Antiques valuation to your New Year’s resolutions list

For many, the start of a new calendar year represents an opportunity to reflect and take stock, and at Bellmans we believe there is no better time to consider your collection of art and antiques. Our London auction office Valuer and Auctioneer, Charlotte Russell, gives five reasons why having your pieces valued should be on your to-do list in 2025.

1. Understand market fluctuations

One of the things that makes the auction world, and particularly the fine art auction market, so interesting and exciting is that prices can change rapidly as new artists are discovered and old favourites rediscovered by collectors and the market. And while other, more traditional categories of antiques usually don’t experience the same rapid rise-and-fall in value, their worth can also fluctuate considerably as trends and tastes shift over time. That silver tea set, old master drawing, Persian rug, dining table or antique mantel clock you acquired decades ago may now have a completely different value as time and the market have progressed.

Bellmans’ valuations always reflect current, up-to-date auction estimates, and provide our clients with a useful tool to accurately gauge what the pieces in their collection might be worth in the present moment.

2. Grow your knowledge

You may have always wondered about that unusual sculpture you picked up at a car boot sale, or the pretty Chinese porcelain vase a family member left you. Our valuations are conducted by a team of expert specialists who are always happy to provide an opinion. Bringing your pieces, antique or modern, in for valuation at our London office or our Sussex office, or even arranging for one of our team to visit you at home, can be a great way to learn more about the pieces in your collection. You never know what hidden gems may be at the back of your wardrobe!

3. Find peace of mind

While we like to start the year on a cheerful note here at Bellmans, obtaining a valuation can also be a way to ensure peace of mind for the more challenging moments in life. Our professional inheritance taxation valuation services help those who have lost someone with a crucial part of the probate process, taking away some of the stress and worry that can accompany the loss of a loved one. If you are based in London, simply get in touch with me at [email protected], and I will be happy to talk you through what we can offer to help during this time.

4. Update your collection

For some a new year means a new look. If you are planning to update your interior, or refresh your jewellery or luxury accessories collection, this is a perfect time to have your items valued by one of our specialists. We hold regular auctions in many different categories, from fine jewellery, including wristwatches, to rare books, pictures and of course Chinese art and ceramics, and are always welcoming consignments.

5. And finally, why not?

Unlike cutting out chocolate or dragging yourself to the gym this January, booking a valuation is extremely easy to do. Furthermore, our sale valuations are entirely free of charge. If you are based in or around London, just reach out to me at [email protected] or call our office on +44 (0)20 45484738 to make an appointment.

The team at Bellmans would like to wish everyone a very happy and prosperous 2025, and we look forward to hearing how we could help you with your New Year’s resolutions!