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Different types of fairs * Permanent Antiques Markets
Throughout Britain there are many permanent antiques markets where several traders have stalls under one roof. Markets such as Portabello Road in London are now a famous tourist attraction, as well as busy antiques markets.
*Weekly Markets
One of the largest weekly markets is held in Bermondsey in London, from 5am every Friday morning. Here, traders buy and sell to one another, as well as to private collectors. For good bargains in such markets, confidence in your particular field of interest is a prerequisite.
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*Vetted Fairs
Large, vetted fairs usually feature a wide variety of different types of collectables. You can find furniture, silver, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and much more under one roof. There are also annual specialist fairs that focus on one particular collecting area, such as silver, ceramics, etc. Even dolls have their specialist fairs.
*Other Fairs
Smaller 'antiques' fairs are held all over the country in church halls, schools and other similar venues. As at larger fairs, you might be charged an entrance fee, but there will probably be no catalogue, dateline or vetting of goods.
A Few Tips
*Early Bird Gets the Worm
When visiting fairs and weekly markets, ensure that you reach there early before the best bargains disappear.
*For Specialist Items, Visit Specialist Dealers
Many dealers at such fairs are members of trade associations. They often operate from large permanent antiques markets, and visiting such markets can be a good way of discovering dealers who specialise in unusual types of collectables. The goods on offer will usually be fairly priced as a specialist will know precisely what it is worth and will be competitive with other local traders.
*Specialist Fairs are a Good Place to Meet Leading Authorities
If you are a keen collector, specialist fairs can offer a golden opportunity to meet leading authorities in their field who have traveled some distance to attend.
*Arrange to Meet Dealers After an Event
If you feel overwhelmed at a fair, ask for a dealer's card and arrange for a visit to their premises. Dealers view fairs as a place to make sales as well as meet new collectors.
*Authenticity
At vetted antiques markets you can be sure you're getting the genuine article. At other fairs, many of the objects for sale may be better described as second-hand rather than antique. Given that you realise that you must satisfy yourself of the authenticity of anything you buy, such events can prove entertaining for a browse, are sometimes a good place to buy inexpensive bric-a-brac and decorative items, and find a good bargain.
*Always Obtain a Receipt
It is crucial to get a written receipt with the dealer's name and address, and a description of your purchase for insurance purposes.
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