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Calm, Cool and Collected
Collectors are a different breed. The hunt for the next find requires a keen eye, a patient focus, and real know-how. The antique pocket watch holder collection, shown at right, belongs to a Baltimore County couple, longtime collectors who come from a long line of collectors. They also stash silver argyles, wedding cups, animal oil paintings, antique porcelain, furniture and more. They tell us what it takes to amass a great collection and what makes the hunt so thrilling…
What do you collect?
Just about anything.
When did you start collecting?
Both of us started at birth.
How did you get into collecting watch holders?
The majority was inherited then it went crazy from there.
How many pieces are in the collection and which has the most interesting provenance?
We have about 200 and the bone watch holder (shown), circa 1810, made by a prisoner-of-war during Napoleon’s command, has the most illustrious history.
Is there a piece that you are seeking and what is it?
We are always seeking.
What do you get out of collecting that you enjoy the most?
The hunt and then fitting whatever it is we find into our lifestyle.
How do you research your finds and what are your sources?
We rely on what we are told about the item when it is purchased and on insurance appraisals, and how the two compare. We also use auction catalogs, Antique Magazine, Maine Digest (a favorite) and even eBay helps out.
What advice would you give to a new collector?
Buy what catches your eye and go with your gut. That’s what is most satisfying to us. And never go into the purchase with the expectation that you can count on making a profit if you sell.
Time Keepers
Watch holders were used in the 1700s and 1800s as a decorative resting place for the pocket watch. From left to right: bone pagoda, 1810; 19th century metal monkey; two mahogany, in-laid miniature grandfather clocks, mid 1800s; mother-of-pearl and brass stand, late 1800s; Chinese porcelain quatrefoil, enameled and encrusted with flowers, 1800s.