Buying an Antique Desk
Featured Image: An antique Desk for Sale on Ebay.
There are a variety of reasons why people like (and collect) antique furniture. Antiques (the ones that demand high prices!) are generally better made, since they have managed to survive a century or more. They have a unique look, both in design and materials, that some people simply love. And of course antique pieces have history, which lends a certain weight to the room they are in. An antique desk is no exception to these qualities, and will often have a stately appearance in an office which many appreciate.
HOW OLD MUST A DESK BE BEFORE IT CAN BE CALLED AN ANTIQUE?
That answer varies depending on who you ask. Although the general rule is that a piece must be at least 50 years old, other factors can also play a part, including the quality, style, and overall rarity.
Depending on what you consider to be the most important characteristics, you may want a desk that is an antique in all senses of the word, or just in the ways that suit your design needs. Regardless, it is essential to choose a desk that is of good quality.
COSTS OF ANTIQUE DESKS
Buying an antique desk is an expensive venture. The price for a desk can vary, and there are some specific factors that will influence the cost:
- the quality of a desk,
- the materials it is made with,
- its design and function,
- when it was made
- its rarity
- demand for the type of desk
- its current condition
- its resale potential
Mahogany and similar woods will cost more, and size is also a factor. In purchasing a desk from a store there is a chance you could negotiate for a better price. Auctions, either traditional or online, are also a consideration, and you might find a desk for a lower price than most stores.
You can find antique desks at your local antique stores, through auctions, or online. Local dealers can probably let you know about auctions in the area.
Buying antique furniture online can be risky, but if you only buy from reputable sources you can often save money that way.
If you cant afford an antique desk, but love the look and feel of a well aged desk for your study or home office, then maybe consider antiquing an cheaper more current model.
