Canes, Walking Sticks and More

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

The Art Of Collecting

What is it that makes a collectable valuable? This question is something that collectors of all ages will debate heavily into the foreseeable future. Take my son for example. In his short life of only thirteen years he has had several different collections that have been near and dear to him. At two he collected Thomas the train, at four he found a passion for the movie Cars and collecting the little car replicas but now nine years later both of those collections have been left in the dust along with his pokemon cards and we are on to collecting disc golf Frisbees.

The answer to that question is as different as each collection and collector. Did we ever profit from any of my son’s collections? Yes and no, we found great satisfaction over the years in the adventure of finding a missing or hard to find item for his set which in itself is victory but financially we may have just about broken even. This is not the case for all collections and yes had we been more diligent in who we sold the collections off to we could have been more profitable but that wasn’t what we were after.

For a collectable to be of financial value there is a whole set of ground rules that differs from us casual collectors although it is still quite subjective. For a collectable to have the investment factor there are numerous things to consider.

For a collectable to have a monetary reward someone has to be willing to purchase it. Even if a collector thinks their collection is worth a certain dollar value it isn’t unless another collector also perceives it to be worth spending amount of money on it.

Another factor that comes into play for a variety of collectables is the condition of the item. For instance, antique canes are quite popular amongst collectors. A certain amount of wear is acceptable for items of past eras but an unreasonable amount may decrease what a buyer is willing to pay. This may not be true with all collectables. With antique canes the historical value, along with the age of the cane and whom it may have belonged to come into play when determining the value as well.

This is however not the case when it comes to collectors of baseball cards. The collectable nature is the shape of the card, the rarity of the individual on the card and that person’s place in history. The shape of the card plays a huge role in the value of the card. Any amount of wear seen on baseball cards is deemed an imperfection and decreases the value.

Collecting should start from the heart and not the pocket book. If you love something and enjoy seeking out the beauty in finding an odd, unique or rare piece then the money spent on the collection and the return on investment becomes less important. Collectibles of all kinds are fun to acquire. It doesn’t hurt to consider the condition, age, authenticity and rarity of an item before you pay an exorbitant price for it. Just remember in the end what remains after the funds have been exchanged is the thrill of the find.

Antique Cane World is an online retailer of antique canes, walking sticks and umbrellas. Contact us today for more information on antique canes, unique umbrellas and more athttp://www.antiquecaneworld.com/.

Satisfying Nostalgic Needs Through Collecting

Collectors are often searching for a way to satisfy a nostalgic craving. Collections range from antique canes to baseball cards. The difference in items that collectors seek out is all part of the adventure. For some collecting is about investing their money in something that will bring in a return while for others it is all about finding something rare and unique to call their own. There is a definite distinction between the two communities so it is important to separate between collectible that retain their value and those that only preserve the dust that sits on them.

One hot collectable that has been on the scene for almost fifty years now is hot wheel cars. Let’s face it, boy or girl, young or old, who doesn’t have that kid like feeling when they are handed a hot wheel. These little toys are a fan favorite still to this day. It is an inexpensive collection that many young children start that they can keep for generation after generation. No matter when you start collecting hot wheels always look to find limited issue cars. These are the ones that will continue to increase in value as they age and become harder to find.

Another collection that is popular is books. The internet and e-readers are making this an even more collectable gem. Certain classics and first addition books in good condition, especially if autographed are extremely valuable. Some books are only valuable because of their nostalgic value to the reader. Most often collectors of books aren’t looking to obtain a huge return on their investment yet are collecting books to pass on to later generations. The value of this type of collection is more to pass on a love of reading, collecting and sharing in the adventure of being able to get lost in the written word.

History buffs tend to like collecting antique canes and walking sticks. These pieces are highly collectable because the story they tell of past eras. When looking for a collection that will continue to retain and increase in value antique canes deliver. The value is within the materials that are used to create unique canes. This alone tends to help insure the value of these historical pieces. Materials such as ivory, gold, silver and rare animal bones not only add value as they become increasingly rare but also intrigue into our history.

From antique canes to little toys let’s be clear a collection is as valuable as the market of collectors is willing to make it. You may believe that old Frogger video game isn’t worth much but to that collector that remembers the joy it brought him when he was playing it on his Atari it might be worth a million bucks. The old adage about beauty being in the eye of the beholder is never truer than in the world of antiques and collectables.

Monday, July 25, 2016

Collectable System Canes

In this installment on antique collectable canes we will take a more extensive look into system canes. Of all canes, the system cane is the most popular type for collectors because there are a ton of styles to choose from. The system canes, often referred to as weapon canes, were created to serve a dual purpose. These canes often hid their actual purpose within. System canes were often owned by the wealthiest women and men. They often owned more than one and they were used in the same manner that individuals use wallets and purses.

There are four types of systematic canes based on what purpose they served including:

Professional Canes: This style of cane was used mainly by tradesmen and business professionals to carry the tools and accessories of their trades.

City Canes: The city cane is most like the decorative cane in that it they were used as fashion accessories. They mainly were used to store the items of necessity such as watches, opera glasses, cameras and such.

Musical Canes: Canes that are classified as musical canes also served the purpose of an instrument like flutes and violins.

Outdoor Canes: The outdoor cane keeps hidden the items one would need on outdoor adventures such as fishing, lawn games, bird watching and more.

Weapon Canes: This is the most collectable of all systematic canes. These canes conceal weapons of all kinds such as swords, daggers, guns and particular tricky weapons that are outfitted with retractable spikes and razors.

There are so many unique styles of systematic canes for collectors to choose from including a number of popular styles for the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. When it comes to collecting system canes it is important to check to be sure the canes contents are in complete order. This type of antique cane, since highly prized by collectors, tends to be a bit more expensive. A collection of system canes is a much more valuable and exclusive compilation.

In my opinion system canes are the most compelling styles of canes to collect. Whether you desire functional, accessorial, utilitarian or simplistic collections antique systematic canes have much to offer. In our next installment into antique canes we will dive deeper into the actual anatomy of canes, different display ideas and basic how-to’s on building a one of a kind collection. Cane collectors are always looking for exclusive pieces that are matchless and uncommon in the world of collecting. A collection of system canes is sure to offer this.

Decorative Canes and Walking Sticks

There are three types of walking sticks and canes: decorative, folk art and system. As the name implies a decorative cane is an accessory used for fashion and their main purpose is purely aesthetic. Folk art canes were designed to be more about the carver then the individual who used them. They are most often created in all wood. System canes are often referred to as gadget canes. These are perhaps the most utilitarian of all canes. In the next few series we will discuss in detail each popular style of cane.

First we will discuss the decorative canes. Most of the decorative canes that are available to collectors today are from the second half of the nineteenth century into the nineteen twenties. They often have a basic shaft that has a decorative handle in which can be created from a number of materials including silver, ivory, gold, porcelain and other highly regarded materials.

Many antique cane collectors choose to begin their collections by purchasing vintage, silver handled canes that were common during this period of time. Collectors will want to ensure that the handle is sterling silver or priced accordingly if it is only a replica. The fancier the knob the more collectors should expect to pay. Often times, decorative canes with silver handles will be made even fancier with the addition of gold and can take on the shape of an animal, human figure or crook handle.

Cane artisans of this century created a number of decorative canes using ivory for the handle. Ivory is an incredibly scarce material and thus makes these canes highly collectable. Decorative ivory canes could most often be purchased by only the wealthiest individuals in society. When it comes to decorative cane handles the ivory material has literally had ever subject matter carved into it. From frogs to humans everything was carved into ivory cane handles. Human forms that are carved into decorative ivory cane handles are the most popular amongst collectors. Ivory is a very sensitive material and thus collectors should be careful to display them appropriately away from the direct sunlight and heat.

Gold is another popular decorative cane handle material. These are amongst the rarest and most expensive canes for collectors to get a hold of. Animal bone, antlers, wood, leather, glass and more have all been materials used to create decorative canes. Collectors should be careful when purchasing collectable canes as many of these materials, as they age, get cracks and chips and need repairs. Make sure the price that is paid for the collectable cane matches the canes condition. Of course a rare cane with exceptionally beautiful features may still be a popular option even with a few minor flaws.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Top Vintage items To Purchase

Antiques have increased in popularity within the last couple of years. The interior design industry shabby-chic movement encourages the use of vintage items in decoration to add character to any space. Not everyone has caught on to the phenomenon but this article may just change your opinion. Continue on if you haven’t yet fallen in love with the idea of repurposing items for the golden era of home entertainment. Vintage items allow you to decorate on a dime while getting quality products that money just can’t buy you now-a-days!

Vintage Art

Most vintage art pieces that can be found at auctions, flea markets, garage sales and the likes are truly interesting. You can purchase antique art at a fraction of the retail price of a poster. In fact many vintage art pieces will also come framed in wooden antique frames that can hang the art or be used separately elsewhere in the home.

Antique Canes and Umbrellas

Antique canes and umbrellas are a purchase that serves multiple purposes. First there is the practicality of a vintage cane or umbrella in everyday use. Secondly they make a beautiful conversation piece when displayed within your homes entryway. Antique canes were the go to fashion accessory of the day showing class and sophistication. When used today in home decorating or for added stability they are sure to be a conversation starter.

Wooden Furniture

The greatest benefit of purchasing older furniture is that it actually made completely from wood. Unlike furniture that is made today from particle board, formica and plastics. This means you are not only getting a piece of well made furniture when purchasing antique wood dressers, head boards and more; you are also getting a piece that can be customized with paint and new hardware for your home.

Antique Dishes and Glassware

Matching glassware and dishes are a thing of the past. Even with fine china mixing patterns is seen as a very chic thing to do. Purchasing vintage dishes is often done so at a price far lower than you would pay for new. The best part is if a pieces break there is no worry about replacing it as there is always an abundance of mismatched dishes for sale at antique outlets and vintage flea markets. The same is true of glasses and stemware. Stemware that varies in shape and size is a popular option especially if you tend to host gatherings. Guests can differentiate their drink easily from other guests.

Not everything is better vintage though. Be wary of furniture that has been reupholstered, vintage appliances and electrical light fixtures. Upholstered furniture could harbor an irremovable scent or worse yet, bugs! Lighting and appliances may not be up to today’s electrical standards and therefore should not be used that is unless you are willing to shell out the money to have them refurbished to today standards of safety.

Deciphering Antique Cane Condition Descriptions

Vintage cane prices vary significantly depending on a number of aspects. Antique cane prices differ due to the condition of the cane, the canes materials and the age of the cane. When you are purchasing a classical cane it is important inspect these three things before committing to purchase an antique cane for your collection.

Definitions of Cane Conditions

New Cane Conditions

When an antique cane is listed as a cane in new condition it means that the cane itself has never been used. The cane is in perfect condition and should show absolutely no signs of deterioration. Yellowing or discoloration is not uncommon when certain materials are used in the construction of a cane. It is also important to make note that a cane that is antique may be fragile because of the overall age of the cane.

Like New or Mint Cane Conditions

Vintage canes that are listed in like new or mint condition may have been used at some point but show very little signs of wear. Overall, most of the canes original components are in place in canes listed in like new or mint condition. Caps and tips may not be the original ones that the cane came with but the overall appearance of the cane should be restored to their original appearance.

Used Cane Conditions

Used is vague when involving antique canes especially with sellers that have little experience with vintage items. In order to determine a fair market value for a cane listed in used condition should be heavily inspected by the individual looking to purchase it. Examine the vintage canes condition in order to allow a value to be placed on the piece. Consider the material that the cane is created from as well as the canes age and used condition before settling on a solid price to pay for a cane in this condition.

Good Cane Conditions: A vintage cane in good condition is one that is still fully functions. It will show normal signs of wear and deterioration. Original components will make up most of the cane but it is important to note that a replacement handle, cap or tip may be in place. If you are purchasing antique canes based upon the originality of the pieces handle a cane that’s handle has been replaced is probably not the best option to add to your collection.

Poor Cane Conditions: Antique cane conditions that are listed in poor shape will often show incredible amounts of wear and tear. In order to publically use these canes users will want to restore them. Poor condition canes are hardly ever purchased to add to a true collector’s collection.
For Salvage Canes Conditions: Canes listed in salvage condition should be considered part only canes. Canes in these conditions are only being sold for parts. If a collector is looking for a specific knob or badge for canes in their collections they should look for canes in salvageable condition.

Antique Cane World is an online retailer of antique canes, walking sticks and umbrellas. Contact us today for more information on antique canes, unique umbrellas and more at http://www.antiquecaneworld.com/.

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

What To Look For When Purchasing A Cane

When looking to purchase a cane there are several factors to consider. The styles and materials used in cane making differ a great deal. Consumers need to understand about basic cane varieties before looking to make a purchase. Vintage canes can be found for sale in several locations such as online outlets, antique shops and second hand resale shops. Canes that are found online or at resale shops are often more reasonably priced then those found at other outlets.

For the most part all canes are composed similarly. Walking canes are created of an elongated, durable post that has a handle or knob to rest a hand on. Not only have canes been used as supportive walking devices but have also been used as fashion accessories. The main element to look for in a cane is comfort especially when looking to purchase a cane as a stability device.

Canes classically used for walking are mainly made from wood, glass, bone or strong plastic; most often they are referred to as walking sticks. When you are interested inpurchasing a cane and adorn it with a topper or badge they should shop around as removable toppers come in a variety of animals or birds.

Round shaped knobs adorn walking canes; these are known as knob-handled walking sticks. Knobs on this style of cane are usually created from a variety of wood, metals, glass or plastic. Sometimes wooden knobbed walking canes are created from the same piece of wood from the post to the cane. Other material selections like metal, glass or plastic are either glued or screwed into the cane.

Cane users that are looking for fashionable canes to wear as an accessory piece are known as dress canes. The more decorative the cane the better when it comes to canes that are used as accessories. Dress canes most often come from antler materials or bone. Dress canes are most often used in evening outings.

The oldest style of cane available on the market are known as crook canes. The handles on these canes are shaped similarly to a shepherd’s cane. Crook canes of the modern era offer a less exaggerated, shorter version of the shepherd hook. If an individual is looking to use the cane as extra support this is the style of cane that is most often chose.

Another popular option in canes is the sword cane. A sword cane comes with a hidden blade sunk inside a cane post. The topper of the cane is attached to the sword not the cane post. This allows the cane to easily be pulled from the base. In a dangerous situation a cane can be pulled from the post. A sword cane can be considered a concealed weapon and therefore are illegal in quite a few states.

There are numerous aspects to look into when purchasing a cane. The type of cane you purchase will depend on if you are looking to display the piece as part of a collection or for use the piece for the purpose of stability.