Do You Know the Difference? An Antiques Primer

antique & collectibles - typewriter, pocket watc, camera, magnfying glass, keys,  & candelabra
Now that it’s starting to cool down a bit here in Arizona and people are more inclined to be out and about here in Phoenix, the Liv Ahwatukee Apartments Blog is taking a look at antiques, vintage items, and collectible items this month. First, let’s take a look at the basics. 

Key Definitions 

  • Antiques are items that are at least one hundred years old, generally speaking. (For cars, it’s twenty-five years old, and for technology, things are typically outdated within five years.)
  • Vintage refers to items that are at least twenty years old. 
  • Collectibles are popular items that people like to collect. They may or may not be vintage or antique, but they often are.
  • Retro is something (particularly clothes) that looks out of style for the current time period.
  • Provenance is the written history or proof of a piece’s authenticity, and it is most often found with more expensive items. It is a paper trail for an antique and may include purchase receipts, marketing materials, documents from auctions houses, and even photographs of the piece that establish or prove its history.

On Value 

A general concept in the antique community regarding value is summed up with this adage: A piece is worth as much as you’re willing to pay for it. This concept encompasses the idea that following your heart when it comes to shopping for antiques is okay — just be sure to balance the desires of your heart with your budget.

Receipts 

When it comes to antiques, receipts are important. Always get a receipt, even for a cash purchase. The receipt should include the age of the item, the material it’s made from, any damage or restoration, its value, and the price you paid. Be sure to find out the return policy of the shop or vendor in case you need to return an item.

Next week we will highlight various places in the area where you can find antique, vintage, and collectible items. We hope you enjoy the cooler weather this month! Thanks for reading our post today.

 
antique & collectibles - typewriter, pocket watc, camera, magnfying glass, keys,  & candelabra