Maritime antiques are objects connected with ships, seafaring, navigation and naval history. The field includes navigational instruments such as sextants, octants, compasses, telescopes and marine chronometers, ship models, ship's bells, lanterns and portholes, figureheads, charts, marine paintings and prints, sailors' crafts such as scrimshaw and woolwork pictures, and fittings and furniture salvaged from vessels.
Britain's long naval and mercantile history means that maritime antiques are plentiful and widely collected. Instruments made by respected London and provincial makers, often signed and in their original fitted boxes, are among the most valued items, along with builder's models and fine presentation pieces linked to famous ships, battles or individuals. Ship's furniture and campaign-style pieces, brass fittings and naval memorabilia also have a strong following. Provenance is particularly important, since an association with a named ship, voyage or officer can greatly increase interest and value. Collectors examine condition, completeness, original finishes and signatures, and should be wary of reproduction brass instruments and lanterns produced in large numbers. Maritime antiques bring character to studies, libraries, boot rooms and coastal homes, and a good chronometer or ship model makes a striking focal point.
