Old technology at auction

By William Gregory MRICS, Golding Young and Mawer.

While auctions keep evolving with the use of modern technology, most of the chattels offered are firmly of the past and some might consider them out of date.

Golding Young & Mawer offered over 57,000 lots for auction last year which included a small array of old technology best illustrated by the humble radio.

The technology was developed in the late 19th century and by the early 1920s there were entertainment broadcasts, all of which of course required a radio receiver.

The early sets were constructed in simple wooden cases, but later the cabinets became more elaborate.

The Art Deco movement in the 1930s had an important influence on the design of radio cases, as did materials such as Bakelite and plastic.

Illustrated are some recent examples sold at auction with prices ranging from £30 to £300 each.

Collectors at auction are often looking for early technical evolution and design style, while the regular auction goer may want a reminder of earlier childhood days listening to the household radio in the lounge – or even the transistor under the bed covers.

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