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An antique dealer from Brighton with decades of experience and appearances on TV has imparted his wisdom to other bargain-hunters. Simon Schneider is a seasoned veteran in uncovering valuable antiques and a television personality too, best known for his appearances on ITV's Dickinson's Real Deal and Secret Dealers. With more than 30 years in the trade, the 71-year-old has established himself as a trusted expert in the field.
On the beginning of his career Mr Schneider said: "I started out by calling on people’s homes but it felt uncomfortable. "So I moved into the antique shops instead. He said he often used to visit the antique's market which is still held in the North Laine, in Upper Gardner Street in Brighton.
Since then, he has become a trusted name in the trade. (Image: Newsquest) "I consider myself an antiques expert, reputation is really everything in this business," he said. When asked what advice he would give newcomers, he said: "If you are starting out, it’s competitive.
"But don’t overlook charity shops and local vintage stores. "Martlets is always worth a look, and the YMCA in Hove can be brilliant.” He has had more than a few finds there himself.
On what makes a good find, he said: "The antiques business is very trend-driven. "Items that were highly fashionable and valuable even ten years ago have dropped in price. "The market has become much younger.
"These days, people are really into mid-century pieces." He recalled an occasion when the YMCA asked for his advice on an unusual item it had received. "I spotted this intricately carved paddle and immediately knew it was something special," he said.
"They weren’t sure what it was, so I advised them to send it to auction. "It turned out to be a piece of Māori tribal art and ended up selling at Gorringe’s for something like £2,500." In addition to his television work, Mr Schneider frequently hosts valuation events across the UK, offering cash prices for gold, silver, and quality antiques.
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