Show and Auction Calendar

Whether you're buying at an antique show, flea market, estate sale, or online, a little caution can go a long way. Here are a few simple guidelines collectors often follow to protect themselves and their purchases. Before You Buy • Look closely for repairs, replacements, or restoration • Check maker’s marks, signatures, or labels when possible • Compare prices with similar items if you can • Ask questions about age, origin, and condition • If a deal feels rushed or pressured, take a moment before committing When Buying Online • Ask for additional photos if something is unclear • Request images of maker marks, labels, or signatures • Look for condition issues such as chips, cracks, repairs, or fading • Use secure payment methods when possible When Selling • Be honest about condition, repairs, and reproduction pieces • Provide clear photos from multiple angles • Include measurements and material details if known • Ship items securely with proper packing Collectors come from many different backgrounds and experience levels. Sharing knowledge and practicing good buying habits helps keep the community strong. If you have additional tips, share them in the comments. submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]

Came across this small vintage tape measure with the Master Eagle name on it. The design and graphics immediately caught my attention. Were these commonly used tools or more of a promotional item? Curious if anyone here collects vintage tools or advertising pieces like this. submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]

Every collector seems to have that first item that sparked their interest. Maybe it was something found at a flea market, inherited from family, or discovered at an antique shop. What was the item that started your collecting journey? If you have a photo, feel free to share it. submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]

If you're asking the community to help identify an item, good photos make a big difference. A few simple steps can help collectors see the details they need. Lighting • Use natural light whenever possible • Avoid strong shadows or dark backgrounds • Try photographing near a window or outside Angles Take several photos from different angles: • Front • Back • Side view • Close-up of details Maker Marks If your item has a signature, stamp, label, or maker’s mark, include a clear close-up photo. These markings are often the key to identifying an object. Measurements Include the approximate size of the item. Examples: • Height • Width • Diameter A ruler or tape measure in the photo can help. Condition If there are chips, cracks, repairs, or restoration, showing those areas helps collectors give better answers. Good photos help the community provide better information and faster identification. Feel free to post your item and let the community take a look. submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]

Saw this classic rotary telephone, and it immediately brought back memories. The cord and plug show some age, but the design is still iconic. Do collectors restore phones like this or mostly keep them as display pieces? Also curious about roughly what era this style is from. If you collect vintage electronics or telephones, I’d love to hear about your favorite finds. submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]

This secretary desk caught my attention recently. I really liked the cubby layout and the decorative stenciling on the drawers and base. Do you see pieces like this often at antique shows or shops? I’m curious what collectors think about desks like this today. Are secretary desks still popular with collectors, or are they becoming harder to sell because of size and space? submitted by /u/JOACCollectors [link] [comments]