The antiques market is full of surprises—just when you think something’s gone out of style, collectors swoop in and drive the prices up again. While trends come and go, certain pieces have staying power thanks to their craftsmanship, rarity, and timeless charm. According to appraisers and vintage experts, these five categories are poised to keep gaining value this year.
If you’ve been thinking about starting (or expanding) your collection, now’s the time to get ahead of the curve. From Art Deco furniture to handcrafted stoneware, these pieces aren’t just beautiful—they’re smart investments that continue to stand the test of time.
1. Art Deco Furniture
Sleek, glamorous, and unapologetically bold, Art Deco furniture continues to rise in both value and demand. Pieces from the 1920s and ’30s feature exquisite veneers, geometric inlays, and chrome or mirrored accents that blend effortlessly into modern interiors. Collectors love the movement’s artistry—each piece is a small architectural statement, celebrating symmetry and craftsmanship.
Authentic items by designers like Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann or Donald Deskey can command eye-watering prices, but even unsigned pieces are climbing fast. As minimalist décor gives way to richer, more expressive interiors, the allure of high-style Art Deco furniture is only growing stronger. If you find one at a reasonable price, don’t hesitate—it won’t stay that way for long.
2. Antique Clocks
Few objects capture craftsmanship like a well-made clock. Mantel, wall, and carriage clocks from the 19th and early 20th centuries are gaining momentum among collectors, prized for their intricate mechanisms and ornate designs. Brands like Seth Thomas, Ansonia, and Gustav Becker stand out for their quality and recognizable marks.
Restored clocks that still chime in rhythm can easily double or triple in value at auction. Models with original pendulums, hand-painted dials, or beveled glass faces are especially coveted. Whether you keep it ticking on your mantel or simply admire its craftsmanship, a good antique clock is both a functional heirloom and a sound investment.
3. Vintage Jewelry
Vintage jewelry never truly goes out of style—it simply gets rediscovered by each new generation. This year, collectors are particularly drawn to Art Nouveau and Edwardian pieces for their intricate designs and use of natural gemstones. Gold filigree, enamel work, and handcrafted details are all signs of a valuable find.
Even high-end costume jewelry from designers like Miriam Haskell or Trifari is on the rise, appreciated for its artistry and rarity. Experts recommend looking for original clasps, intact stones, and maker’s marks to ensure authenticity. Whether you wear it or store it safely away, fine vintage jewelry has proven itself as both adornment and investment.
4. Mid-Century Modern Lighting
Mid-century lighting continues to shine—literally and figuratively. Original fixtures from the 1950s and ’60s, especially by Stilnovo, Arredoluce, and Lightolier, remain hot commodities. Collectors adore their sculptural silhouettes, warm brass tones, and space-age inspiration. A single pendant or sputnik chandelier can instantly elevate a room.
As more homeowners move away from mass-produced lighting, the demand for authentic mid-century pieces keeps rising. Restored or rewired originals often sell for thousands, particularly when paired with original shades or colored glass. Their timeless design makes them both conversation starters and wise investments for anyone drawn to form and function.
5. Early American Stoneware
Once humble kitchen staples, early American stoneware pieces have become stars of the antiques world. These sturdy crocks, jugs, and jars—often decorated with cobalt blue floral or bird motifs—are now appreciated as folk art. Each one is unique, a reflection of 19th-century life and craftsmanship.
Collectors look for clear maker’s marks, regional stamps, and bright, well-preserved glazes. Pieces from notable kilns or with particularly detailed decorations can command hundreds, even thousands, at auction. With interest in heritage craftsmanship growing, this market shows no signs of slowing down. What once sat in a cellar could now grace the center of an artful display.
The Takeaway
Antiques have always been about more than money—they’re tangible pieces of history that carry stories from one generation to the next. Still, it doesn’t hurt when those stories appreciate in value. Whether you’re hunting at an estate sale or browsing a flea market, keep your eye out for these timeless treasures—they’re only getting more desirable.
