South-east England

This year marks the 200th anniversary of a major milestone in the railway age: the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR).

Local scenes by the incredibly prolific artist from the Channel Islands are favourites in today’s market

Highlights from the extensive David Finn German toy collection sold at Special Auction Services

Blacking ink was widely used in the 19th century for the cleaning and polishing of boots and shoes, floors and doorsteps.

Dealer duo started online showcase during the pandemic but around 20 traders continue to feature

One of the rarest and most colourful Lehmann toys put in a bright performance at Special Auction Services.

Sunbury Antiques Fairs has successfully taken over the running of the event staged in the Surrey hills

When it comes to collectables, the 007 films are on a level of their own. So much so in fact, that a Surrey auction house stages a dedicated sale.

The YZ-branded range of novelties – a whimsical selection of ashtrays, match holders, pipe holders, pipe racks etc fashioned in tropical hardwoods and cherry amber bakelite – was produced by walking stick and cane maker Henry Howell and Company in the 1920s-30s.

The French inventor André Romain Guilmet (1827-92) took out many patents for his ingenious designs including in 1868 the idea for a driving chain on a bicycle.

The Universal Genève Tri-Compax (Ref 222973) is one of the classic post-war chronographs.

The greatest actor of Victorian times and the creator of Dracula were among the notable figures featured in an autograph album sold at Surrey auction house John Nicholson’s (25% buyer’s premium).

A Roman marble bust of the tyrannical Emperor Commodus attracted a flurry of bids at Mallams (25% buyer’s premium) in Oxford.

Focus on two flower paintings created in Kent by different artists but offered at the same local saleroom

Dealer and organiser will take over the reins of the biannual event but still under the Penman banner

Organiser hopes shift to weekend for a monthly event will boost visitor and trader numbers

A British airborne forces smock offered in the C&T (22% buyer’s premium) February 12-13 auction told its own tale thanks to a remarkable discovery concealed within.