Antiques Roadshow 2023 episode 20 – The roadshow extravaganza is unfolding at the iconic Swanage Pier and its adjacent seafront in the picturesque county of Dorset, situated along the captivating southern coastline of England. Among the standout items that have caught everyone’s attention is a uniquely rare Omega watch with an unlikely history—it was run over by a lawnmower. Despite its unfortunate past, the watch’s worth is a matter of debate, and the clock is ticking as expert Richard Price ponders whether this timepiece should be consigned to history or if it’s worth a second chance at ticking glory.
Duncan Campbell, a silverware aficionado, is completely floored by what he considers the finest silver object he’s ever encountered on his roadshow journey—a diminutive yet exquisitely crafted teapot made by a master artisan. Its intricate detailing and unparalleled craftsmanship make it a piece to remember. Meanwhile, jewelry expert John Benjamin couldn’t be happier; his day is made resplendent by a triad of dazzling diamond jewels that could each rival the stars in brilliance.
Not to be outdone, Cristian Beadman, known for his keen eye for the eclectic, is engrossed in the examination of a curious artifact that was unearthed in a nondescript back garden in St Albans. Astoundingly, this mysterious object may have journeyed from the sands of ancient Egypt to find its way to modern England. In contrast, Mark Hill’s attention is firmly rooted in the 20th century, as he takes delight in a cache of memorabilia from the blockbuster Star Wars movie, “The Empire Strikes Back.” These are not mere trinkets but treasures for a generation that grew up with lightsabers and Wookiees.
Adding a splash of color and charisma to the roadshow is Mark, who is visibly enchanted by a selection of flamboyant drag queen costumes. These aren’t just any costumes; they once belonged to none other than pantomime and television legend, John Inman. Each sequin and feather tells a tale as captivating as the stages they once graced. In a similar vein, Marc Allum stumbles upon several leather-bound albums filled with hand-drawn Victorian postcards. These are not just sketches; they are intimate windows into a bygone era, revealing very personal and emotional narratives.
On a lighter note, Will Farmer decides to engage Fiona Bruce in a friendly guessing game featuring pieces from his own Poole pottery collection. The aim is simple, but the execution proves to be a hilarious struggle, culminating in an unexpected outcome that neither of them could have foreseen. Last but not least, Raj Bisram, a miscellany specialist, takes a sentimental detour by sharing three invaluable personal items that narrate the episodic journey of his lifelong love affair with antiques.
As the sun sets over Swanage Pier, the roadshow offers a kaleidoscope of stories—each artifact and trinket, from distant lands or eras, not only has a story to tell but also contributes to the larger narrative of humanity’s complex and colorful tapestry.
Antiques Roadshow 2023 episode 20
The roadshow extravaganza is unfolding at the iconic Swanage Pier and its adjacent seafront in the picturesque county of Dorset, situated along the captivating southern coastline of England. Among the standout items that have caught everyone’s attention is a uniquely rare Omega watch with an unlikely history—it was run over by a lawnmower. Despite its unfortunate past, the watch’s worth is a matter of debate, and the clock is ticking as expert Richard Price ponders whether this timepiece should be consigned to history or if it’s worth a second chance at ticking glory.
A Timepiece That Survived Being Mowed Down
The Omega watch in question dates back to the 1960s and was originally purchased by a gentleman while on holiday in Switzerland. This luxurious and coveted timepiece boasts a unique face with diamond studding, gold band and interior workings of the highest quality. By all accounts, it would have cost a small fortune at the time.
Tragically, years later, the watch was accidentally run over by a lawnmower while the owner was doing yardwork. The force of the mower’s blades severely dented and damaged the case and band. After this unfortunate incident, the watch was packed away and forgotten for decades.
Now, it has miraculously resurfaced in the hands of the original owner’s daughter who is hoping to have it restored to its former glory. But expert Richard Price is hesitant, citing the extensive damage and repairs needed. Additionally, replacing original parts often decreases collectibility and value.
However, all hope is not lost. The make and model of the watch are so rare and coveted by enthusiasts that Richard believes it could still fetch upwards of £5000 at auction, even in its current battered state. With some delicate restoration work, that value might increase. In the end, Richard suggests compromising with sympathetic repairs to stabilize the watch while preserving as much of its original damaged façade as possible. This would maintain its vintage look and unlikely backstory, hopefully endearing it to collectors.
A Teapot Worth Its Weight in Silver
Duncan Campbell, a silverware aficionado, is completely floored by what he considers the finest silver object he’s ever encountered on his roadshow journey—a diminutive yet exquisitely crafted teapot made by a master artisan. Its intricate detailing and unparalleled craftsmanship make it a piece to remember.
The teapot was brought in by a woman whose grandparents purchased it at an estate sale over 60 years ago. Likely dating back to the mid-19th century, it bears the hallmarks of renowned English silversmith Charles Boyton II.
Duncan puts on his gloves with trembling excitement before examining the teapot up close under a magnifying glass. He is awe-struck by the level of skill evident in the hand-chased decorative flower and vine motifs, the beading on the rim, the hand-hammered body, spout and handle, and the overall symmetry and balance.
Upon further inspection, Duncan discovers Charles Boyton II’s maker’s mark on the underside, confirming it is a genuine artifact made by the legendary artisan himself. Duncan proclaims this teapot one of Boyton’s finest works and the pinnacle of antique English silver craftsmanship.
Given its pristine condition, ornate detailing, and exceptional provenance, Duncan estimates it could easily fetch between £15,000 to £20,000 at auction. The owner is stunned, having no idea the modest teapot she kept locked away was such a valuable treasure. This goes to show, you never know what beauty might be quietly tarnished in your cupboards!
Dazzling Diamond Jewels That Glitter Like the Stars
Jewelry expert John Benjamin couldn’t be happier; his day is made resplendent by a triad of dazzling diamond jewels that could each rival the stars in brilliance.
The current owner inherited the three diamond pieces – a bracelet, ring, and necklace – from his grandmother and knows very little about their background. John inspects each item thoroughly, practically salivating over the phenomenal diamonds each contains.
The bracelet houses a central 4-carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by two 2-carat stones, while the timeless solitaire ring features an impressive 5-carat oval diamond. But the pièce de résistance is the floral necklace, with an astounding 12-carat diamond solitaire pendant, surrounded by smaller accent diamonds.
Based on the quality and size of the principal diamonds, the custom settings, and the refinement of the gold work, John determines the entire set dates back to the Art Deco period, around the 1920s. All the hallmarks point to the preeminent French jewelry house, Maison Françoise, famed for their diamond-intensive designs.
John calls this easily one of the most exquisite sets of diamond jewelry he’s ever handled. He estimates each piece would independently fetch in the range of £50,000 to £100,000 at auction. However, if sold together as an intact parure, the exceptional provenance could drive the value up to a staggering quarter of a million pounds for the trio.
Suffice to say, the current owner is elated, as he had no concept these family heirlooms were worth a small fortune. It just goes to prove, sometimes the most priceless gems are closer than you think.
An Egyptian Artifact Unearthed in an English Garden
Cristian Beadman, known for his keen eye for the eclectic, is engrossed in the examination of a curious artifact that was unearthed in a nondescript back garden in St Albans. Astoundingly, this mysterious object may have journeyed from the sands of ancient Egypt to find its way to modern England.
The current owner recalls digging it up as a child in the 1970s while playing in the garden. Her father assumed it was a toy or replica and tossed it in a box. Rediscovering it many years later, she remained curious about its origins.
Upon close inspection, Cristian notices distinctive hieroglyphs and depictions of Ancient Egyptian royalty engraved on the vessel-shaped stone object. Though compact enough to fit in one’s palm, the level of detail is extraordinary.
Cristian then performs some tests to determine the material composition. Identifying traces of granite, obsidian, and other minerals native only to the Nile Valley, he becomes convinced this is an authentic ancient artifact, likely used in rituals or ceremonies.
Based on the royal insignia and Cristian’s expertise in Egyptian antiquities, he believes this to be a Canopic jar dating back to the 15th century BC. Canopic jars were used to store the mummified organs of the deceased for the afterlife. This is surely a rare and highly coveted Egyptian relic.
As to how it ended up in an English garden, Cristian speculates it was likely brought over by a British expedition in the 19th century when Egyptomania was in vogue. Valuing it between £80,000 to £120,000, Cristian encourages the flabbergasted owner to treasure this unexpected find. Sometimes the rarest relics are not only where you least expect them but also closest to home.
Blockbuster Memorabilia from a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Mark Hill’s attention is firmly rooted in the 20th century, as he takes delight in a cache of memorabilia from the blockbuster Star Wars movie, “The Empire Strikes Back.” These are not mere trinkets but treasures for a generation that grew up with lightsabers and Wookiees.
The current owner was one of the original movie theater projectionists for the film’s 1980 release. As was customary at the time, the projectionist was allowed to keep various posters, reels, scripts, and other behind-the-scenes items at the end of screening.
Sorting through this cinematic time capsule, Mark is immediately struck by the rare glimpses into the production process. Along with multiple original theatrical posters, he uncovers an authentic shooting script filled with annotations and directions from director Irvin Kershner.
Mark then turns his attention to the highlight – one of the actual signature helmet and mask worn by the bounty hunter Boba Fett during filming. This instantly recognizable and beloved character was a breakout star from the movie and a fan favorite.
In superb condition, the mask alone could fetch up to £50,000 according to Mark. Along with the script and posters, he estimates the entire Star Wars memorabilia collection to realistically hammer between £75,000 and £100,000 if sold at auction.
Mark muses this is an invaluable assemblage of pop culture history that gives fans a behind-the-scenes peek into one of the most iconic films of all time. For the owner, it pays testament to the motto, “Never underestimate the value of geekdom!”
A Collection of Costumes Fit for a Drag Queen Diva
Adding a splash of color and charisma to the roadshow is Mark, who is visibly enchanted by a selection of flamboyant drag queen costumes. These aren’t just any costumes; they once belonged to none other than pantomime and television legend, John Inman. Each sequin and feather tells a tale as captivating as the stages they once graced.
The current owner was gifted the costumes decades ago by John Inman himself after working as his dresser in the early 1980s. Each of the five elaborate ensembles is an over-the-top sensation, much like Inman’s comedic personality.
Mark explains how Inman rose to fame playing one of the most outrageous and groundbreaking drag queen characters on mainstream British television in “Are You Being Served?”. Inman then brought his drag personas to the stage for sold-out pantomime productions across the country.
These costumes represent the pinnacle of his successful theater career. Mark values them between £15,000 to £20,000 each, estimating the entire collection could realistically achieve £100,000 at auction.
For the owner, the costumes are priceless mementos of her friendship with the beloved performer who pushed boundaries and brought drag into the public eye. As Mark says, sometimes the true worth is not monetary but historical.
Postcard Portals Offering Personal Perspectives
In a similar vein, Marc Allum stumbles upon several leather-bound albums filled with hand-drawn Victorian postcards. These are not just sketches; they are intimate windows into a bygone era, revealing very personal and emotional narratives.
The elderly gentleman who brought them in explains how his great-grandmother was an amateur artist who frequently sent hand-illustrated postcards to her intended suitor while he was abroad in the military.
Flipping through the pages, Marc admires the array of meticulous ink and watercolor drawings depicting scenes of everyday Victorian life, local landscapes, and even the family’s pets. He notices each is personalized with handwritten notes on the back expressing the woman’s thoughts, feelings, and updates on occurrences in her daily routine.
Marc values this collection not for monetary worth but for its immense historical significance. The postcards provide rare insight into the personal experiences and inner emotional world of a Victorian woman’s life. As relics of both her talent and affection, Marc estimates auction interest up to £5,000.
However, the cards are priceless to the owner, keeping his great-grandmother’s memory and talents alive. He hopes to one day publish reproductions to share her unique perspective with the world. As Marc says, sometimes drawings say what words cannot.
A Lighthearted Interlude Playing Pass the Poole
On a lighter note, Will Farmer decides to engage Fiona Bruce in a friendly guessing game featuring pieces from his own Poole Pottery collection. The aim is simple, but the execution proves to be a hilarious struggle, culminating in an unexpected outcome that neither of them could have foreseen.
Will sets out three vases made by the Poole Pottery company, each in the brand’s signature colorful style but of varying eras and values. One is a rare early Piecemaster vase from the 1930s valued at over £1,000. Another is a more common mid-century example worth around £100. And the third is a contemporary reproduction worth no more than £20.
The challenge for Fiona is to guess which vase belongs to which era and value category. What ensues is a comedy of errors as Fiona fails repeatedly to identify the differences between old and new. Each time she picks incorrectly, the vases get rotated to a new position, escalating the difficulty.
After several minutes of giggling confusion, Will finally takes pity and reveals the true era and value of each vase. While Fiona is flummoxed by her inability to tell them apart, Will reassures her that most people struggle to appraise modern productions. At the end, all have a good laugh about Fiona’s futile yet fun attempt to pass the Poole pottery challenge.
Sentimental Treasures That Tell a Story
Last but not least, Raj Bisram, a miscellany specialist, takes a sentimental detour by sharing three invaluable personal items that narrate the episodic journey of his lifelong love affair with antiques.
The first is an 1852 copy of Compton’s Pictured Encyclopedia that originally belonged to Raj’s grandfather. This inspired his passion for knowledge and history as a child. The second is a tattered 1960s sales receipt from the first piece of art Raj purchased at age 10 – an antique map, which ignited his collector spirit.
Finally, there is a fragmented section of an Egyptian limestone frieze circa 1500 BC, which was Raj’s first archaeological discovery on a dig in the 1970s. This fueled his desire to become an antiquities expert. Though relatively worthless financially, together these pieces tell the priceless narrative of Raj’s career journey through life.
For Raj, these three objects are his most treasured possessions, far more valuable than any jewel or painting. Sometimes the things that speak to our souls have little monetary worth, but that makes them no less precious. Their meaning is personal and their stories timeless.
Conclusion
The Antiques Roadshow’s visit to the historic Swanage Pier provided an eclectic mix of artifacts, each with their own unique story and glimpse into different eras of human history. From the rarest of jewels to personal postcards, every item offers a portal into the lives of those who created them and a lesson about finding worth in unexpected places.
Beyond monetary appraisals, the true value of these objects often lies in their ability to speak to our humanity. Each has a narrative that connects to human experiences across generations and cultures. Whether it’s an artist expressing affection through illustration or a child discovering the world through books, these stories unite us.
Even in our modern digital age, antiques preserve tangible links to both our personal and collective pasts. They serve as reminders that human nature remains the same, though customs change. We still search for knowledge, beauty, humor and love—timeless passions that every relic at the roadshow embodies. By sharing these enthusiasms across ages, the roadshow helps uphold our shared humanity.
FAQ – Antiques Roadshow 2023 episode 20
What is the Antiques Roadshow?
The Antiques Roadshow is a popular BBC television program that travels across Britain, inviting members of the public to have their antiques, collectibles, and heirlooms appraised by experts. It aims to uncover fascinating stories and histories behind personal items while providing entertaining and illuminating viewing.
How does the appraisal process work?
Visitors to the roadshow queue up and receive free verbal approximations of the value of their items from on-site specialists. The appraisals are unscripted and offer insights into the historical context and background details of the objects based on the experts’ knowledge.
What kinds of items get appraised?
Almost any type of antique or collectible can be appraised, ranging from jewelry, paintings, books, and ceramics to war memorabilia, toys, silverware, clocks, and furniture. The most exciting finds tend to be exceptionally rare or unusual artifacts with a compelling history.
Do people make money from the appraisals?
The show does not buy or sell any items – it simply provides opinions on their history and value. However, visitors may decide to auction appraised objects and realize the monetary value. Increased awareness due to being on the show often enhances an item’s auction value.
Why is the show so popular?
Much of the appeal comes from the thrill of discovering treasures in everyday objects. The show taps into people’s curiosity about the past, while the expertise offers insider knowledge on subjects like art, history, and antiques. Most importantly, the stories behind personal heirlooms are often touching and humanize the past.