Paula, a long-time reader of Antiques Trade Gazette, had not intended to visit Adam’s Antiques Fair, but when she saw it advertised in the issue she was reading, she decided to pop in for a look. While there, she fell in love with a vase from dealer Art Deco Gallery London and snapped it up for £90. She was thrilled with the bargain and would be a repeat visitor to the event.
Bought as a gift at Adam’s Antiques Fairs – a 19th century pen tray, £70.
On September 11, the London fair returned after a one-month break for summer. The atmosphere was positive in the Lindley Hall venue at Royal Horticultural Halls. Over 400 tickets sold online, 127 dealers signed up and the queue had stretched around the whole building by the time doors opened at 10am.
A couple’s growing coin hoard, from Adam’s Antiques Fairs.
Most of the buyers ATG spoke to had picked up items that they had not come for. One couple, for example, said they had just intended to have a look around but ended up picking up £400 worth of coins to add to their growing coin collection.
Another had taken a shine to a few pairs of vintage binoculars. After trying them out, she walked away with her favourite for only £80. Many returning buyers had also come to find gifts for loved ones including a 19th century pen tray for £70 and a frame to display a wedding photo for £150.
Shopper at the Adam’s Antiques Fair.
Successful day
Matthew Adams, one of the fair organisers, was thrilled with how the day had gone, declaring it one of the busiest they had seen in a while with over 90% of exhibitors returning. According to the dealers, the success of the fair is down mostly to the reputation of the organisers, the central London location, the monthly consistency, and the calibre of the buyers.
An Art Deco-style vase bought by a first-time exhibitor to Adam’s Antiques Fair for £90.
Louise Ferdinando, a jewellery dealer, attends both this fair and the organiser’s other event, Frock Me! Vintage Fashion, and attributes her loyalty to the great organisation and reputation of the clients: “People are interested and charming. There are real buyers and real collectors, so it is always nice to have a real chat.”
Shopper at the Adam’s Antiques Fair.
Adam’s Antiques Fair runs monthly, returning to the Royal Horticultural Halls on October 9. Free parking is available at the venue and it is easily reached from Victoria station.
