Predictions for the 2010 Antiques Market

We’re whipping up a guide to reproduction (or "young") antiques for our March issue, which hits newsstands on February 23. And while I was editing away last week, I got this list of predictions from Antiques Roadshow‘s appraiser Lark Mason :

1. Large D-flawless diamonds and finer quality jewelry will be strong sellers, serving as a hedge for wealthy collectors in the turbulent economy.

2. Post-war fine arts by top artists will be in great demand.

3. Lower-end collectibles won’t be great sellers, especially outside of pop and mass culture items, so look for bargains here.

4. Middle market (items under $10,000) decorative  English, American, and European furniture and decorative arts will continue to have a tough time, as this segment of the market competes against mass-market retailers offering reproductions of this material at affordable prices.

We think #4 is especially interesting, and fits just perfectly with our view that if you’ve ever been interested in collecting antiques or adding a few vintage pieces to your otherwise modern or contemporary home, now’s the time. Lower demand means better prices and a greater selection. And young antiques are a great way to enter this fascinating realm.

By the way, Antiques Roadshow made a stop in Denver last summer, and the Denver episodes air March 29, April 5 and April 12 at 7 p.m. on Rocky Mountain PBS. We sent an intrepid reporter to find out what Coloradans were schlepping to the AR taping, and we’ll publish her piece in March, but in the meantime…Did anyone out there attend the Roadshow taping and discover that you are the proud owner of a priceless gem? Leave a comment and tell us about it.