Auction Sale Prices Strong:
Reviewing the prices of fairly standard 19th century antique desks in auctions recently it seems prices are firming up compared to 12 months ago. I have seen a fairly original late 18th century mahogany desk, (58 inches by 24.5 inches) sell for £12,000 at Dreweatts and, as it was sold to the trade, there will be restoration costs before being presented for sale. We could surmise then that this smallish desk will command a fairly substantial price on the open market so dealers must be gaining confidence in the trade.
In Mallam’s Auction Rooms a rather plain mahogany partners desk circa 1840 (60 inches x 36 inches) made £4,200, with 20% vat + buyers premium the purchases is paying £5208 before any restoration costs. These are fairly strong prices for unrestored antique desks so it would seem that antique desks are becoming increasingly popular.
I am not sure where these particular desk will end up being sold, whether they will grace a high-end London Antique Emporium or be on sale through an online dealer such ourselves at Burrells Antique Desks, but it is clear that the prices will be much higher than similar desks we have on offer. We would expect to sell similar examples in restored condition for comparable prices to the under the hammer price (before VAT restoration and Fees) and we include UK mainland delivery and installation.
This obviously means that our antique desk prices are very attractive at the moment but if the trend continues prices are shure to rise as we replenish or stock! So you or someone you know are in the market for buying an antique desk, antique writing table, desk or library chair then it is worth pursuing our current stock for a good deal while you can.
Why are People Buying Antique Desks ?
One obvious reason is that antique furniture can be a great investment and will last you a lifetime. Although not guaranteed they often do increase in value over the longer term. So at some point in the future you could cash in your investment or pass it on as a family heirloom.
Antique William 1V Mahogany Partners Desk
During the last 30 or so years I have been in the antique trade, good quality large mahogany and oak desks have always been sought after. Those in good condition and not over restored will always return the seller a substantial price after years of use and enjoyment.
Another advantage is of course to benefit of having a beautiful piece of well made furniture gracing your office or study. If you are furnishing business premises large impressive antique furniture gives your office a very substantial, mature and weighty feel, promoting a sense confidence, centuries of tradition and therefore financial security (even if you set up in business yesterday!)
Antique Mahogany Scottish Partners Desk
What about an Antique Writing Table or Library Table?
Similarly Antique writing tables and library tables are increasing in value so it is a good time to buy at the moment. They offer a good alternative to the desk if you are looking for something that is more versatile in its uses. They are often easier to place in the home/study as they have very generous working surface area and can double as a dining table for example.
Antique Mahogany Writing Table
Traditionally antique writing tables would be used in the office for meetings and for additional storage and working space. Large Partners Tables would often be found in solicitors or barristers chambers or in Victorian libraries and typically offer two or three drawers on both sides of the table.
Antique Mahogany Writing Table
Why Buy from Burrells Antique Desks?
We are antique dealers first and foremost not just ‘sellers of online antique furniture’. We specialise in antique desks, writing tables and chairs and as such have years of experience in buying, restoring and selling such furniture. We know what to look for when buying with the customer in mind and keep to very good quality, serviceable pieces that are not excessive in price.
Antique Mahogany Irish Partners Desk
Our customers are offered a first class service with as much advice and information as they need to decide on a purchase that is right for them, with an after sales service should it be required.
We work very hard to ensure that the sympathetic restoration we undertake does not undermine the integrity of the antique. This we think makes our desks more cost-effective and have a better long-term investment potential than those bought privately through the sale room.
