It was refreshing to see some old tools on the Antique roadshow last night but I nearly fell off my chair when I heard the ‘expert’ price those old Sheffield saws up at 2-3 thousand pounds. I know the prices are rising but it did seem he was a tad high on the estimate. However with a little research and digging I found out more about the chap who brought them onto the show as he mentioned he also makes saws in the traditional way for a living, he explained that they take 3-4 days to complete a comparable replica so i’d say maybe there has to be some extra thought put into what old saws are worth by collectors and dealers in the future.
It’s a fact that old saws are a far cry from their modern counter parts and shouldn’t even be compared to those familiar names such as Lie Nielsen but instead to more obscure names who pride themselves on using traditional methods when making them.
Who was that chap on the Antiques roadshow? Well let me introduce you to Shane of Skelton Saws, here is his website http://skeltonsaws.co.uk/ . I wish him well in his venture and it’s good to see guys like this who appreciate the skills old toolmakers had.
You can also check what old saws we have in stock here, http://www.www.tooltique.co.uk/antique/vintage-antique-saws/
Whilst on the subject here is a good book well worth acquiring: British Saws & Saw Makers from 1660 by Simon Barley which can be obtained online or better still direct from the author:
Now available worldwide from online booksellers at UK RRP of £55, or direct from the author at £45 (including free post and packing); a hardback edition is now also available at the UK price of £59, or from the author at £49.
I have met Simon and have this book and it’s definitely worth adding to your collection.
Contact Simon Barley at:
Stafford Croft, Brookside, Bradwell, Hope Valley S33 9HF, England or barleys@mac.com. Payment can be taken by cheque, BACS or Paypal.
