A Ticka miniature spy camera was among a host of ‘fantastic’ items taken along to an antiques valuation day in Nottinghamshire.
Antiques expert Nick Mellors came across the item at a free valuation day at Southwell. Mr Mellors hosts regular events in Southwell and Newark on behalf of Hansons Auctioneers.
He said: “Ticka was a subminiature camera developed in 1904 by Swedish designer Magnus Niéll. It resembles an antique pocket watch and was ideal for inconspicuous photography.
“The camera is slightly thicker than a pocket watch of the same era and is about as wide. It was a wonderful piece to see along with a pair of Second World War U-Boat binoculars. Both fantastic items.”
They were not the only vintage or antique finds to delight Mr Mellors: “A gentleman came in with 19 men’s fob watches and two 1950s novelty fob watches – one being an Ingersol football watch and another featuring Dan Dare and a UFO.
“I also saw some fine pottery and glassware from makes such as Baccarat, Lalique and Royal Crown Derby. It was an excellent day all round.
“Some people chose to consign to auction on the day while others simply wanted a free valuation to give them time to go away and think about it.
“My advice is always get things valued. Many people have items they no longer need that could earn them a windfall.”
Nick Mellors will be hosting free valuation events at Newark Civil War Centre, 14 Appleton Gate, Newark, NG24 1JY on August 7 and September 11, 10am-1pm. He will also be at The Saracens Head, Market Place, Southwell, NG25 0HE, on August 21 and September 25, 10am-1pm.
