Celebrating: World Maritime Day

As we join the world in celebrating World Maritime Day on 26th September, we’re reminded of the critical role maritime history plays in shaping our global identity. This day, led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), highlights shipping safety, maritime security and the marine environment’s protection. Here at Dugglebys, we are proud to contribute to the preservation of maritime heritage by valuing and auctioning unique nautical antiques.

A Window Into The Past

Maritime antiques are more than just artefacts, they represent a journey through time, connecting us to the daring explorers and seafarers who once ruled the waves. From antique ship models and navigational instruments to seafaring memorabilia, each item tells a story of adventure, resilience and innovation. Imagine owning a 19th century ship’s logbook or a captain’s brass telescope, each rich with the history of the seas they once navigated. These pieces allow collectors to relive maritime history and preserve its memory for future generations.

Set Sail With Dugglebys

Our Maritime & Scientific Instruments department specialises in the valuation and auctioning of a wide range of historic and collectable items that have navigated the worlds of seafaring and scientific discovery.

We expertly handle a diverse array of objects, including antique navigational instruments such as sextants and compasses, vintage maritime art and memorabilia, as well as classic scientific instruments used in astronomy, physics and early experimentation.

We are proud to regularly host a special Maritime & Scientific Instruments sale, an event that consistently draws attention from collectors, historians and enthusiasts alike. Over the years, these sales have garnered a strong reputation for offering rare and exceptional pieces, leading to remarkable demand and consistently high performance.  Continue reading to discover some of our recent sale highlights.

_{Above, Left to Right: Lot 3147, Lot 3140, Lot 3153 and Lot 3161.}

Lot No. 3147 – Ship's House Flag
A rectangular linen flag featuring a white diamond and red cross on a cobalt blue background, inscribed on the hoist ‘Cutty Sark’. Provenance by vendor repute: the vendor's father, a naval cadet in the 1940s/50s, acquired the flag while serving on HMS Worcester, moored alongside the Cutty Sark on the River Thames at Greenhithe. Dimensions: H130cm, W170cm. Sold: £500.

Lot No. 3140 – Early 20th Century Brass Ship's Bell
A brass ship’s bell inscribed ‘Saint George 1900 Liverpool,’ standing at 40cm in height. Sold: £600.

Lot No. 3153 – 19th Century Monochrome Ship Silhouette
A reverse-painted silhouette of the HMS Royal Sovereign, with an inscription reading ‘HMS Royal Sovereign 100 Guns Vice Admiral C. Collingwood,’ bordered by Verre Eglomise and set in a birds-eye maple frame. Painting dimensions: H31cm, W41cm. Sold: £320.

Lot No. 3161 – Late Victorian Scratch-Built Model of an 18th Century Ship
A late Victorian scratch-built model of a fully rigged 18th-century ship, bearing the name ‘Ann & Mary’ on the hull, mounted on a wooden stand. Height: 128cm. Sold: £240.

Interested In Selling Your Maritime Treasures?

If you have maritime items that you’d like to sell, now is the perfect time to showcase them at auction. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom or a rare nautical find, we welcome consignments of all kinds. Our team of experts is on hand to provide valuations and guide you through the selling process.

We are currently inviting entries for our upcoming Cameras, Maritime & Scientific Instruments sale. The last date for entries is Monday 7th October and the auction is scheduled for Friday 25th October.