Editor’s Note:   This column is a regular feature in the Wayback Times.   If you have questions for The Old Guy, drop us an e-mail or a letter and we will get it to him.   If The Old Guy doesn't know the answer to your antiques and collectibles question, he will pin down an expert who does.   Topics to date: Florida antiques Beer cans Vintage radio Fishing lure Fountain pens Stereoscopes Punkinhead Hoosier cupboards Carnival glass Blue Willow china Buddy L Toys Antique business Old photographs Eatons catalogue Fiesta dinnerware PEZ Royal Doulton Toby Jugs Bonnet chest care Postcard collecting Art Nouveau, Art Deco Fishing lures

Ask The Old Guy A Q&A for antiques and collectibles   Dear Old Guy; A few years ago the Wayback Times ran an article on antique markets and shows located in Florida. Is there somewhere that we can access this information?   We found it most useful when you first published it. We are heading south shortly after the Christmas holidays.   Thank you for your time. Deborah Forster, Barrie Dear Deborah, Thanks for your inquiry. The Wayback Times has received many requests of the same nature, which has prompted us to run another article listing some of Florida’s antique shows and markets for our readers in the January/February 2010 issue.   I hope this helps you and others who are interested in exploring some locations in the sunny south. Have a safe and enjoyable trip.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My husband picked up this old beer can at a yard sale last summer and was wondering if it is worth anything. He is thinking of starting a collection to display in our bar in the basement and wants to know if you have any advice.   Mary Persaud, Brantford, Ont.   Hi Mary, There are lots of beer can collectors all over Canada and the U.S. and many attend “canventions” in both countries. There are beer can clubs, newsletters, price guides and beer can collector shows as well. Many items connected with breweriana are also collectable, like beer trays, beer advertising, beer signs and even beer calendars. Your husband's can is from The Falstaff Brewing Corporation in the United States and was produced in the 1970s. It is worth about $5 dollars in good condition. Beer can collectors will focus on certain brands, manufacturers or design themes.   Both Labatt’s and Molson’s in Canada had several different series of collectable cans depicting history, sporting events, teams and even the Olympics.   The most valuable cans are the “cone tops” which were produced from the mid 1930s until World War II. These cans sell well into the hundreds of dollars depending on condition unlike most collectable cans which can be picked up for a few dollars. Unfortunately, some cone tops are being reproduced. Apparently, STP engine treatment can tops are being added to older cans and sold as original cone tops. True collectors desire only clean, dent free, unscratched cans. Most collections consist of empty cans that have been opened from the bottom so that the “pull tab” or “pop top” remains intact. Having to choose between starting a beer can collection or a stamp collection wouldn't be too difficult for me. I would rather sample different cans of beer than lick stamps.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My husband and I purchased this old radio at an auction in Ottawa recently and would like to know if you can provide us with some information on it.   It still has the Stromberg-Carlson label on the front, but no other numbers or dates of manufacture. It is in excellent condition and works great.   We love it and would appreciate your help. Thank you,   Deb and Raymond Archer Ottawa ON   Hi Deb and Raymond; Your radio does look like it is in very good condition. The burled walnut veneer is very attractive, The Stromberg-Carlson Company manufactured this particular model in Rochester, New York, back in 1935. They originally started out as a telephone manufacturing company in 1894 but evolved into a radio manufacturer by 1923. The company's quality was so good it was often referred to as the Rolls Royce of radio manufacturers. Your specific model has what is called an airplane dial. This is a round dial with a pointer that covers a full 360 degrees, similar to aircraft instrumentation of that era. Above the airplane dial on your model is a “cat’s eye” which is a vacuum tube that aids in tuning in the broadcast and short wave signals that your radio receives.   This radio should give you many years of enjoyment and parts and tubes are still available for most repairs. A word of caution, however. Most vintage radios are not fused and therefore are not protected from abnormal operating conditions. Never leave it on when there is nobody in the house.   Today's value in its present condition is between $185 and $250. Enjoy your purchase and thanks for your email.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, I found this fishing lure in an old tackle box of my dad's. It doesn't have any name or label on it.   It is yellow in colour with gold spots. Would you be able to tell me anything about it or if it is valuable?   Thanks,   Philip Redman, Collingwood, ON Thanks for the question, Philip, . The wooden lure that you have is called a Globe and was manufactured by Pflueger (The Enterprise Mfg. Co.) in Akron, Ohio. Originally produced from 1909, Pflueger Globes are very collectible, partially because of their unique shape. Yours would have been made between 1930 and 1966.   If you tug gently on the head of the lure you will find that it pulls away from the body and springs back. Globes were made with that unique feature during those years only. The purpose of this spring system was to make it easier to untangle weeds when fishing. If you have a magnifying glass you will be able to see that your lure is marked on the propeller blade with the Pflueger Bulldog trademark.   There are newer versions of the same lure (without the spring-back feature) that have "made in Hong Kong" stamped under the Bulldog image.   Your yellow Globe with the gold spots in its present condition is worth about $40. If you would like further information, you can find it on the Canadian Antique Fishing Tackle Association website at www.cafta.ca. It also has links to several other informative sites. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I am thinking of starting an old fountain pen collection which I feel will enhance my small collection of antique poetry books. I live in a rather tiny apartment with limited space and thought that pens would be fairly easy to display in some nice cases without taking up too much room. The problem is, I have looked at many different pens at shows and shops in the Ottawa area but have no idea where to begin or what to look for. Some of them were quite beautiful but the range of prices scared me off. I need some advice.   Carol Watson, Ottawa, ON   Hello Carol, As a new fountain pen collector, you'll be in good company and derive years of enjoyment from searching for - and finding - this popular collectible. Acquiring vintage fountain pens has become a growing obsession with many collectors. The number and variety of pens out there can be intimidating. Browse through some collector books and surf the internet to get an idea of which type of pen appeals to you the most. Once you have an idea of what's available, the first thing I would suggest is to start your collection with a few pens of higher quality rather than purchasing a lot of cheaper bargain pens.   There is an old saying in the antique business that goes, "What is common now, will always be common.“   The fountain pen was invented way back in 1830 but was not manufactured and sold commercially until 1884. Today, some collectors focus on what is referred to as the "Golden Age" of fountain pens, which refers to pens manufactured before World War II. Others will concentrate on collecting pens made only by one company. The Big Four of pen manufacturers are comprised of the Sheaffer Pen Company, Parker Pen Company, Wahl-Eversharp Company and The Waterman Pen Company. There were also hundreds of other manufacturers producing millions of fountain pens as well.   I know of some collectors who acquire fountain pens based solely on their ink filling systems. The earliest systems used an eyedropper to fill the pens with ink. Different forms of pump fillers, such as lever fillers, vacuum fillers, crescent fillers and cartridge fillers followed these. In 1913 Waterman produced a rare pen that required a Waterman coin that was used to depress the ink sac to fill the pen.   There were even pens that required you to blow into the end of the pen with your mouth to compress the air sac, and when you stopped blowing the sac would draw ink into the pen. (I highly suspect that this quite often had disastrous results.)   The choices for starting a vintage fountain pen collection are almost endless. Some are exquisitely beautiful and others very utilitarian. You might consider locating a dealer in your area who is knowledgeable about pens and can help with advice. As well, there is an excellent website that I would highly recommend at: vintagepens.com. It covers just about everything you will need to know to start your collection including identification, pricing, and repairing vintage pens.   Many of the general antique guides have fairly good sections on pens and there are also several books written that are specifically about fountain pens, which you would find useful. Books are handy to carry along to shows and shops for reference purposes as well.   Thanks for your question. I hope this information helps.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My father left me a Steiff Teddy Bear that he had as a child. I believe it was given to him in the late 1930s. I would appreciate any information you could give me on its history and value. My sister thinks it could be quite valuable. Enclosed you will find pictures of it. Thank you. Nora Webster, Brampton, ON   Dear Nora; It is a Steiff bear and many are quite valuable. Let me first give you the "bear facts" about the Steiff Company. Margarete Steiff was born in Giengen, Germany in 1847. She was crippled with polio as a small child and spent the rest of her life confined to a wheel chair.   Margarete began taking sewing lessons and became an accomplished seamstress. By the age of 30, she was running her own company, manufacturing and selling clothing and outerwear. In 1886, she began manufacturing felt-covered pull toys and stuffed animals including an elephant with an s-shaped trunk that eventually became the Steiff Company trademark.   During the next several years, the toy making division of her company out sold the clothing manufacturing part and the rest is toy history.   The Steiff Toy Company began making stuffed toy bears in 1892, but the famous stand- up style bear with jointed arms and legs did not appear until 1902. That same year in the United States something happened that would help ensure the success of the Steiff Company for years to come. This as they say "is the rest of the story."   President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt was on a hunting trip in Mississippi. To ensure he would get a kill on his trip to their state, the hosts arranged to tie a captured bear to a tree to await the great white hunter. The president found this appalling and refused to shoot the bear.   When hearing of this story, Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist with the Washington Post, depicted the incident in a cartoon referring to the bear as Teddy's Bear. The cartoon was featured on the front page of the Post and from then on every political cartoon Berryman drew that included the president, Teddy's Bear would always appear in the background. (It was similar to the way Andy Donato's bird always appears in his Toronto Sun cartoons.)   After viewing Berrymans cartoon, Morris and Rose Michtom, candy store owners in Brooklyn, N.Y., recognized an opportunity. They made a stuffed toy Teddy's Bear and displayed it in their candy store window. The bears began selling so well they closed the candy store and started the now famous Ideal Novelty and Toy Company. Eventually the term "Teddy's Bear" evolved into teddy bear.   The Steiff Company in Germany joined the Teddy Bear parade and have been producing high quality teddy bears ever since. An embossed button sewn into their left ear distinguishes Steiff teddy bears. The first buttons were either blank or featured that elephant image mentioned earlier. After 1906, the Steiff name appears on the button.   Older Steiff teddy bears have brought sellers incredible prices at auctions and toy sales. In 1994, Yoshihiro Sekiguchi, founder of the Teddy Bear Museum in Izu, Japan, paid more than $200,000 for a 1904 cinnamon Steiff bear at auction. Your bear is not in that range, but it is still worth between $250 and $300 in its present condition.   "Arctophily" is the term used to describe teddy bear collecting and the following are a few hints to help collectors estimate the approximate age of their bears. Teddy bears manufactured in the early 1900's had prominent humped backs, long legs and arms and long protruding snouts and tiny ears.   Bears from the 1920's had shorter arms, legs and feet. In the 1930s, bears had rounder heads and noses and their ears became much larger.   From 1945 on teddy bears became much cuter, less bear like and the humped back disappeared.   Thanks for your question, Nora. I hope my information covers more than the "bear necessities" of teddy bear collecting.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My wife and I attended the Fort Henry Antique Show in Kingston this summer after seeing their ad in the Wayback Times, and I must thank you folks. It was a great show and an amazing place to visit. I would recommend it highly to anyone interested in our great country's history. While we were there, we purchased a stereoscope viewer and set of six photo cards from one of their dealers for $85. We have since bought additional cards and it has turned into a great form of entertainment with our friends and family. I would like to know if I paid a reasonable price and would appreciate it if you could give me some information on the history of these 3D viewers?   John C. Twiford, Oshawa, ON   Hi John; Thank you for your e-mail. I have been to the Fort Henry Show before and it is an incredible place to visit and a great venue for an antique show.   It sounds like you got a good deal on your purchase. Depending on condition, the hand-held stereoscopes sell in the $75 to $125 range even without a set of cards.   Many years back, long before DVDs, Ipods and televisions, most households owned a collection of viewing cards and stereoscope. They were tremendously popular during the late 1800s and up until the 1920s. The original concept of the stereoscope goes back to 1838 and is attributed to Sir Charles Wheatstone of Gloucester England. He proved that the human mind could perceive objects in three dimensions, creating the illusion of depth when each eye receives a slightly different view. His first stereo cards were hand drawn because his invention preceded photography.   In 1859, Oliver Wendell Homes developed the hand-held style viewer that you have. A camera with two separate lenses took stereo pictures and both were mounted on a card separated by approximately the same distance that is between the average adult's eyes. The resulting images enabled viewers to travel the world, view history and even enjoy comical scenes in 3D in the comfort of their own parlours.   Eventually, other forms of entertainment, like radios and movie theaters, signaled the end of the stereoscope’s huge popularity. Lots of single viewing cards and card sets can still be purchased at reasonable prices if you care to add to the enjoyment of your stereoscope. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I have very fond Christmas memories of a toy bear that was Santa's helper back when I was a child. His name was "Punkinhead." I can't seem to find any history on him. My kids keep joking that Punkinhead is a figment of my imagination and my two granddaughters think I'm losing it. I would appreciate any information you could give me about this bear.   Susan McBain Toronto, Ontario Dear Susan: Charles Thorson, an animator for the T. Eaton Company, was the creator of "Punkinhead." This lovable bear first appeared in the Eaton's Santa Claus Parade back in 1947 and showed up every Christmas as Santa's helper.   Thorson also illustrated the first booklet, "Punkinhead The Sad Little Bear." It was a 16-page booklet distributed free to children at the 1948 Santa Parade and throughout Eaton's stores that Christmas. Thirteen more booklets followed in the next several years, along with a slew of Punkinhead-related products that Eaton's marketed successfully across Canada. There were Punkinhead watches, children's clothing, puppets, storybooks, colouring books, records and even a line of children's furniture decorated with Punkinhead's image. He even appeared in television commercials for Eaton's in the 1950s.   The actual toy bear, with its characteristic blonde tuft of hair, was manufactured in England by the Merrythought Toy Company exclusively for the T. Eaton Company. Punkinhead was produced in three sizes and soon became a favourite at Christmas time for kids across the country. To add to his fame, Canadian country singer Wilf Carter recorded a song about the well-known little bear.   Sadly, by 1960, poor Punkinhead was well into hibernation as far as Eaton's was concerned. He is still quite collectable in Canada, occasionally showing up at antique toy shows and on eBay. With a little bit of searching, you might be able to pick up a Punkinhead for your granddaughters as proof that he did exist.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy The Old Guy wishes all of the Wayback Times readers and advertisers a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season.   (Image used with permission of Sears Canada Inc.)   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My husband and I just purchased an antique kitchen cupboard from a dealer near Barrie. We both love it, and it looks great in our farmhouse kitchen. The metal plaque on the top of the cupboard says “Knechtel Kitchen Kabinet” but the dealer at the antique store referred to it as a “Hoosier Cupboard”. Was he incorrect by calling it that?   Pattie and Bill Harnum, Peterborough, ON   Dear Pattie, The cupboard you purchased was made by the Knechtel Furniture Company of Hanover, Ontario, probably in the early 1900s, and is commonly referred to as a “Hoosier Style” cupboard. The original Hoosier Manufacturing Co., based in New Castle, Indiana, was the largest manufacturer of these practical, all-in-one kitchen workstations. Thousands of these kitchen cupboards were produced for the ultra modern kitchens of the early 1900s and “Hoosier Cupboard” became the generic term used by most people. Other major manufacturers of these cupboards included McDougall, Kitchen Maid, Sellers and Napanee. By 1930, builders started designing houses with built-in cupboards or cabinetry and the glory days of the Hoosier came to an end. Most Hoosier cupboards or, as some people called them, ‘The Woman’s Workbench,” were four feet wide by six feet tall and comprised of three sections; the bottom, or base section, usually on casters, contained up to three drawers on one side and a large door on the other side, which opened to reveal ample space for pots, pans, and bowls.   The biggest drawer was often metal lined for storage of flour. The middle section contained a metal or porcelain counter, which could be pulled forward and used as a work surface. Under this shelf were two shallow drawers used for utensil storage. The top section was not as deep and had a roll up (or tambour) door, smaller double doors with shelves and metal racks to hold recipe cards or cookbooks. There was also a long door that hid the four sifter.   A whole new world of collecting can open up to people wishing to stock their Hoosiers with original accessories. Sugar bins, coffee and tea canisters, salt and pepper shakers, and Hoosier spice jars are just a few. Original sets of Hoosier glassware are very collectible.   In its day, the Hoosier cupboard was a modern time and work saving device. Today, they are much sought after by antique lovers and people restoring older homes. Reproduction hardware like hinges and drawer handles are widely available.   Enjoy your Hoosier and thanks for writing.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy I have recently started collecting carnival glass because I just love the look of it, but I don't know much about it. How old is it and do you know how they produce those beautiful colours? Should I worry about buying reproductions?   Bree Riley-Mitsu London, Ontario   Dear Bree, Carnival glass, commonly referred to as the "Poor man's Tiffany Glass," is probably the most collected type of glass in today's marketplace. The Fenton Art Glass Co. was one of the first manufacturers of carnival glass back in 1905. The name carnival glass is derived from the fact that thousands of pieces were given out as prizes at fairs and carnivals. It quickly became very collectable due to its beautiful appearance and reasonable cost. Many pieces, depending on their colour and patterns, can still be purchased for under $100, but the more rare and harder- to-find pieces can fetch thousands of dollars.   The process of making carnival glass involves applying metallic salts to the still- hot pressed glass as it cools. This results in the beautiful iridescent sheen that first attracted you as a collector. Fenton produced over 100 different patterns but other prominent manufacturers include Northwood, Westmoreland, Imperial, Millersburg, Dugan & Diamond and U.S. Glass. There are over 2,000 identified patterns in circulation.   Most manufacturers had ceased production by 1930, but new carnival glass has been reintroduced to the market for the past 25 years. It is usually quite easy to tell the difference between an original piece and a reproduction, but having said that, there are also some excellent reproductions that can fool even a seasoned collector. Fenton itself has reissued many patterns.   If you have access to a computer, there is an excellent web site by David Doty that enables you to look up pieces of carnival glass by pattern, shape, or manufacturer. The site is http://www.ddoty.com and it contains over 4,000 photos and 16,000 pages dedicated to carnival glass. It also includes information on fakes and reproductions as well as current values.   There are also many books available and several carnival glass collector clubs in Canada. The Canadian Carnival Glass Association is holding its 25th convention out your way in Brantford Ontario in September. They will have carnival glass for sale, a free ID clinic and an auction. The dates are September 18, 19, and 20. If you need more information on the convention or would like to become a member, you can contact Ginny at 905 686-1885 or Pauline at 519 752-3057. Books are an important resource for any collector. One book that comes highly recommended is The Standard Encyclopedia of Carnival Glass, 11th Edition by Mike Carwile. This new publication is discussed in the Wayback Times Book Review (this issue). It just might be the perfect way to start your library on carnival glass. Thanks for your question and enjoy your collection.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.         Dear Old Guy My husband's parents are in the process of downsizing and moving into a condo. They have given us their beautiful set of Blue Willow china that originally belonged to their parents. It has 12 complete place settings and in total, there are almost 100 pieces. I have always loved this set and would like to keep it in great condition so we can pass it on down to our daughter when the time comes. Since it is probably about 70 years old, does it require any special treatment when being cleaned and stored? My mother-in-law has always hand washed the set but I wondered if I could use the dishwasher. Also, could you explain the story behind the Blue Willow pattern?   Denise Cooper Markham ON   Dear Denise, The blue willow pattern, produced since 1780, is still being manufactured.Your set was made by the Buffalo Pottery Co. and could be at least 70 years old since they started making this version of the blue willow transfer ware pattern in 1905. As far as caring for this lovely set, just remember a few simple things:   - Do not use a dishwasher to clean any of these pieces. (Your mother-in-law had the right idea.) Although being fairly sturdily made, the dishwasher can cause crazed pieces to break off or lose portions of their glaze;   - Hand wash with a mild detergent and soft cloth. A fellow antique dealer suggests placing a large folded towel at the bottom of the sink when washing each piece to act as a cushion, should any items accidentally slip from your grasp;   - Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Moving a dish from the fridge into a sink of hot water can cause cracking or breakage;   - You can use a solution of baking soda and water to remove any coffee or tea stains. More stubborn stains may require soaking over night;   - Do not hide this set away in box. Store it in your china cabinet so it can be viewed and enjoyed by your family. To prevent scratches when stacking plates on top of each other, place a piece of cloth or tissue paper between each plate or go to a dollar store and purchase some cheap paper doilies and use them to separate the plates.   There are several versions of the Blue Willow legend to coincide with the different patterns. The most common and preferred version (obviously condensed) is as follows:   Once upon a time, hundreds of years ago, there was a rich old Mandarin who had an only daughter named Li-Chi. They lived in a large two-storey home, which was a rare thing in China in those days. The beautiful young daughter fell in love with her father's employee, Chiang. The father disapproved because he wanted her to marry a rich man and Chiang was very poor. The daughter was sent to live in the garden house by the willow tree so she would not be able to see Chiang again. Chiang, however, was not ready to give up and he sent a letter to Li-Chi asking her to run away with him. She agreed, but they had to cross the bridge to escape. Her father, the Mandarin, saw them escaping and he chased them. Just as the young lovers were about to be caught, the gods took pity on them and turned them into doves so they could fly away safely and live happily ever after. Pictured on the bridge in the Blue Willow pattern, you can see the three main figures. First is Li-Chi holding her distaff, followed by Chiang holding a jewel box, and chasing them is the father holding a whip. Other versions of this same legend involve jealousy, betrayal, revenge, arson and murder. In fact, you could make a TV mini series from the story behind the Blue Willow design.   Thanks for your question and enjoy your new-to-you old set of dishes. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, We recently picked up a copy of the Wayback Times at Southworks Antiques in Cambridge and were happy to find your column. For quite some time, we have wanted to get information on Buddy L Toys, as my father has a large Buddy L train engine that he remembers getting for Christmas some time in the 1940s. It is still in very good condition and has been greatly enjoyed by several generations. I know that you do not do individual appraisals in your column but could you please give me some information on this toy? Thank you.   Karen Parker-Smith London, ON   Dear Karen; Buddy L Toys have become very desirable with collectors and their prices have steadily increased over the years. The company was started in 1910 by Fred Lundahl and was originally operated as the Moline Pressed Steel Company, which manufactured steel parts for trucks and farm machinery. Fred eventually began making heavy gauge steel toys for his son Arthur (nicknamed Buddy). The sturdy toys were a hit with his son and the neighbourhood kids. Word spread and by 1921 Fred turned his company into a full time toy manufacturer which he named after his son.   The company built heavy gauge steel model toy trucks, cars, construction equipment, emergency vehicles, and, yes, trains. These were big, (20 to 26 inches in length) solidly built toys that were large enough for children to ride on and made to last. All had moving parts and some even had working hydraulics.   Buddy L became a trusted name and one of the most successful metal toy manufacturers in the world. The advent of World War II created a shortage of steel and the company started making wooden toys. After the war, they returned to producing steel toys but in a lighter gauge and smaller size.   They continued to manufacture quality toys until the company was sold to the Japanese in the 1970s. Today, Buddy L Toys are manufactured in China and are made almost entirely of plastic.   Toys manufactured before the 1960s are the most collectable, with the pre-war models commanding the highest prices. The heavier gauge Buddy L Toys made from the 1920s to the early 1940s, like your father's, can reach values into the thousands of dollars, depending on condition. There are several good price guides available in book stores, but you might be wise to have a look on eBay for a more recent valuation. (A quick look there recently showed there were 535 Buddy L items listed for sale.)   There are also several excellent toy and nostalgia shows that advertise regularly in the Wayback Times that would be well worth a visit just to check out their prices on Buddy L toys. Many of these shows feature appraisal clinics and if that’s not the case, most dealers at these shows are more than happy to share their knowledge with interested collectors.   Due to the quality that Buddy L was known for, that old toy train engine will probably be around for a very long time with the proper care.   Thanks again. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy My husband will be reaching retirement age in three years and we are thinking of getting into the antiques business.We have both been avid collectors over the years and we absolutely love antiques. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Beth and Sandy Robertson, Hamilton, ON Dear Beth & Sandy, Loving antiques is probably the worst reason to get into the antiques business. You might end up sitting in a shop not wanting to sell your favorite pieces. The key is being able to get your customer to love what you are selling. That’s marketing.   Before jumping into the business with both feet, or all four feet in your case, here are a few things to consider. Renting and advertising, or purchasing a shop is expensive.You might want to start out by setting up shop in an antique mall.You will be required to pay a monthly rent and probably a percentage of your total sales to management, but it will be much less than funding your own shop and, just as important, leaves you free to search for more product.   This business is not like working for Wal-Mart, where you can just pick up the phone and order more size eight shoes when you sell out. You must cultivate and develop a relationship with different sources for finding antiques and this takes time.   Many established dealers rely on regular pickers to supply them with inventory, or they attend auctions and estate sales. These sources require an investment of both time and money and you should have sufficient knowledge to ensure you are purchasing well.   You might also consider selling your antiques at one of the many antique shows. Most advertisements for these shows will have a number you can call or an email address for information and many organizers are looking for new vendors. You will be charged a rental fee for your area and there is a lot of hard work involved in setting up and taking down your booth, but your product will be exposed to a large number of potential buyers over a short period of time.   Make sure you pricing is comparable to those of the other dealers. The first show I did many years ago was an eye opener for me. I had sold over a thousand dollars worth of stock before the show even opened. Obviously my prices were much too low and several knowledgeable dealers jumped at the chance to relieve me of my most saleable pieces. The internet is also a viable option for both selling and buying. eBay is one of the best known auction sites, or you could opt to create your own website and buy and sell from it.   There are many books and price guides available to help you in valuing your antiques. Visit as many shops as you can and learn from other dealers. Watch what they do and learn from their good habits as well as their bad. Many existing antique shops take the same approach to marketing year after year. If you want to stand out in this business then you have to come up with something new.   It is also important that you know your product. It can be an exciting journey into the world of antiques and you will meet a lot of interesting and knowledgeable people along the way.You will also meet a few real characters as well. Good luck to both of you and thanks for the letter. The Old Guy.   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: This summer at the Odessa Antique Show, I purchased an old photograph encased in glass in a small metal hinged frame that opens like a tiny book. The dealer that I bought it from told me it was a Daguerreotype, but my husband thinks it could be a tintype photograph. How can we tell the difference?   Jan & Walter Jamieson, Belleville, ON   Dear Jan and Walter, thanks for the question folks. Without seeing the photograph myself it is hard to tell for sure, but the fact that it is framed and under glass suggests that it probably is a daguerreotype. I will try and explain the differences and give you a bit of the history of photography so you can decide for yourselves. Up until 1839, when Louis Mande Daguerre introduced his picture taking process, anyone wishing for a picture of a loved one or favourite scene would have to pay for a portrait or landscape artist to paint one. Daguerreotypes were the earliest form of photographic images and although quite costly to purchase in their time, they were much less expensive than hiring an artist to paint. It's no wonder Daguerreotypes became so popular. It is estimated that in the first 20 years after their introduction, over 30 million were produced in North America alone.   Here are the differences between Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, and Tintype images:   Daguerreotypes; Produced from 1840 -1860 This image was made by light striking a polished silver plate and since silver will tarnish the pictures were encased behind glass and sealed from the air at the back with paper and tape. This process makes Daguerreotypes very reflective, like a mirror and most of the smaller ones were produced in hinged cases.   Ambrotypes; Produced from 1855-1865 Many Ambrotypes were also produced in hinged cases, but these pictures did not require a paper seal on the back. The image was printed right on the glass using a photographic emulsion. If you remove an Ambrotype from its case and hold it up to the light you can actually see through it.   Tin types These were introduced after 1855 and were also referred to as Ferrotypes. Instead of setting the image on glass, the picture was reproduced on a thin piece of black enameled or japanned tin. These images did not have to be encased to prevent tarnishing and most are found loose or in old photo albums or cardboard frames.   The value of Daguerreotypes depends on who or what's in the picture and also on the size. Full or whole plate size (6 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches) is the most valued, with smaller sizes commanding lower prices.   Ever wonder why nobody ever seems to smile in these old pictures? It's because the subjects had to sit still for up to 40 minutes in some cases for the picture taking process to be completed. My father always said they never smiled because they worked so hard back then they didn't have any energy left to smile.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, I have a 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer Catalogue that I have had since new. I was wondering if it is worth anything. If not, I’ll just keep it because I enjoy looking at the old fashions and comparing the prices with today’s. Thank you,   Susan Cook Stratford   Dear Susan, The 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer catalogue you have was actually the last one produced by the T. Eaton Company. Despite this, it has very little monetary value due to the large number of catalogues circulated at the time. The value that it does retain, however, is in the nostalgia offered on each and every page.   The Eaton Company history started when Timothy Eaton, a hard working Irish immigrant, sold his interest in a small dry goods store in St. Marys, Ontario and opened the T. Eaton Company in Toronto in 1869 at 178 Yonge Street. In 1883, he moved the store to 190 Yonge Street. The new store boasted the first electric lights of any store in Canada and it also had the largest plate glass windows in Toronto. In 1886, Eaton installed the city’s first retail store elevator, but it only took customers up. They were required to take the flights of stairs down the three existing floors, thus being exposed to the displays of Eatons merchandise and advertising.   The Eatons catalogue started in 1884 and quickly became a valuable tool in rural Canada. It was commonly referred to as the “Homesteader’s Bible." Rural families could finally purchase the same products as city folks. By 1912, you could order a house from the catalogue for $895 and have it delivered to your property free of charge. Communities could also order school houses from Eatons.   A classic children’s story was written by Roch Carrier about a Quebec mother who had ordered a Montreal Canadiens hockey sweater from the Eatons catalogue for her son. When the package arrived her son was horrified to find that “Mr. Eaton” had substituted a Toronto Maple Leaf sweater instead. Eatons, at one time, had over 70,000 employees and was one of Canada’s largest employers.   The Eatons catalogue was published for 92 years until 1976. Six years later, the renowned Eatons Santa Claus Parade was cancelled and, sadly, in 1999 the Eatons empire turned its last page. One of my fondest childhood memories of Eatons was the frequent visits to the downtown Toronto store with my randmother (an Irish immigrant herself) and watching her touch the left toe of the bronze Timothy Eaton statue every time she entered the building. Shoppers and employees alike would rub Timothy’s left shoe for good luck, eventually leaving him with one very shiny toe. His statue now resides at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, where his toe likely still shines. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: I want to start a collection Fiesta dinnerware and I need your help.I love the bright colours and style of Fiesta ceramics, but I'm not sure how to tell the difference between the original Fiesta and the reproductions now available. When I go to auctions I'm afraid to bid without knowing how to tell the difference. Could you give me some information on this, please? Laura Maxwell Ajax, Ontario Dear Laura; Fiestaware is very popular with collectors today. The Homer Laughlin China Company originally started manufacturing this colourful dinnerware in 1936 and continued production until 1972. The reproduction Fiesta you refer to is still made by Homer Laughlin. They reintroduced the line in 1986. Back in 1936, the original Fiesta came in five colours; Red, Yellow, Light Green, Ivory and Cobalt Blue. Turquoise was added in 1937. In 1951, Rose, Chartreuse, Gray and Dark Green were introduced. Colours were dropped and reintroduced, but yellow was the only colour continuously manufactured for Fiesta’s 36 year run.   Other than identifying the age of a Fiesta piece by colour, you can also determine its age by examining the glaze. The newer Fiesta has a shinier finish and is smooth to the touch. If your piece is stamped on the back or bottom in lower case letters, it is old. If upper case letters (capitals) are used, it is new. The newer pieces are also slightly smaller due to the use of fully vitrified clay. Some of the newer pieces will be stamped "60th anniversary" or "lead free". These are obviously new.   At its peak, the Fiesta line was comprised of 64 different items, so don't limit your collection to just plates or cups and saucers. The art deco design and durable construction have made the Fiesta line very collectable. A word of caution; do not use the old Fiestaware to serve food or drinks. It contains lead which can leach into certain foods. The newer products are safe to use. Enjoy collecting Fiestaware.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; We are hoping you can answer a question for us. While cleaning out some old boxes in our basement yesterday, we came across a PEZ dispenser that I remember getting in my Christmas stocking back in the '60s. Are these considered a "collectible" now? Thanks Charles and Ashleigh Saylor Toronto Dear Charles and Ashleigh, I think Santa handed out a lot of PEZ dispensers over the years. I remember getting mine in the '50s and he's still handing them out today.   Yes, PEZ dispensers are quite collectible. Originally manufactured as a breath mint for smokers, the PEZ people made the right decision to change their focus and direct their marketing efforts toward kids.   These colourful candy dispensers featured comic and storybook characters’ heads that would spit out cubes of candy. How could any kid resist that?   PEZ dispensers made prior to 1987 did not have feet and command a higher price, but lately collectors are buying the newer footed dispensers to enhance and complete their collections.   If you are considering starting your own collection, remember to avoid damaged or broken PEZ characters and look for evidence of foot removal. Prices for the newer PEZ models start from $2 to $3 and can jump to several hundred dollars for the older (footless) ones. A rare Lions Club lion PEZ commands upward of $2,000 US. There are PEZ clubs, books on PEZ and even PEZ conventions. A web site full of information, found at www.PEZ.com, has been set up by the PEZ company where you will be able to find your recently rediscovered PEZ, along with hundreds of others.   On the PEZ web site, it states that over three billion PEZ candies are consumed annually in the USA alone. However, since yours is from the '60s, I would avoid eating the candy.   Thanks for your email. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My mother has a collection of Royal Doulton Toby Jugs that she sometimes refers to as "character" jugs. She started collecting them about 30 years ago and has been given several more by friends. Could you please give us some information on determining their age and value? We would also like some advice on adding to the collection for investment purposes. Cynthia Spencer London   Dear Cynthia, First, there is no guarantee you will make money with any collectible. Markets, trends and prices can change rapidly. The best advice is to buy what you like, just in case you end up owning it forever.   Having said that, specializing in discontinued Toby jugs can give you a step up on other collectors. Their value tend to increase due to lack of availability. Get to know reputable dealers who specialize in Royal Doulton and leave your wish list with them. A large number of the more desirable pieces never appear on the open market because they are sold to collectors who previously left orders with their dealers.   Also, try to contact other Doulton collectors or join a Royal Doulton collector club. These people can be a valuable asset when determining market changes and many will trade with you. When purchasing, always take your time, closely examining each item before buying. Watch for hairline cracks and look for colour variations that might indicate repairs or restorations.   Dating Royal Doulton character jugs is not a simple task without reference books, but here are a few hints that might help. In character jugs produced before the early 1960’s, the eyes have indented pupils. After that period, they were made with smooth rounded eyes.   Many of the pre-1960’s jugs have colouring on the lip inside the top of the jug. Each Royal Doulton jug has the famous crown and lion back stamp on its base. The early character jugs can be dated if there is a number to the right of the lion and crown symbol. This system of dating begins with a number 1 in 1928 and goes up to number 27 in 1954. The simple way to arrive at the production date is to add 1927 to the number. (For example: 12 would be 12 + 1927 = the year 1939.)   Various price and identification books are available. However, the one drawback in relying solely on price guides is obtaining current value. As I said before, markets change. Searching eBay’s current and recently sold items on your computer will give you a more realistic idea of your Toby’s value and what people will actually pay. Enjoy your collection and thank you for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My Uncle Norm gave me a large dresser (he calls it a bonnet chest) that he had sitting in his basement for years. I think it is mahogany or cherry wood. I love the look of it and it's in good condition but I am a little nervous about how to care for it. Do you have any suggestions? Jack Riley Toronto   Dear Jack, Relax! This piece has probably survived more than 100 years already. You don't have to be afraid of it because it's old. It will probably outlast most furniture made today if you follow a few simple guidelines.   Keep your bonnet chest out of direct sunlight. Ordinary exposure to light has given this piece its soft, mellow patina, but excessive sunlight can crack and damage veneers. Heat and dryness are also enemies of all wooden furniture, especially during our cold winters. A humidifier is always a good investment.   Do not over-polish your piece. Using a beeswax polish once or twice a year is sufficient. Over-polishing, or using too much polish can clog the pores of the wood and create a sticky surface. Never use silicon-based sprays. They create a shiny surface on the wood while drying the inside. If the chest does have a veneered surface, be careful when polishing or dusting not to break off raised fragments of veneer.   Most antique furniture was very well made and by following these hints yours will survive many more years.   By the way, the reason your uncle referred to this as a bonnet chest is because of the two upper drawers (sometimes there are three). These top drawers were designed to be deeper than the lower drawers so they could accommodate the fashionable hats or bonnets of the time.   Enjoy your bonnet chest.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I purchased a box of books at an auction last week and found several interesting old postcards inside the cover of one of them. Can you give me some information on postcard collecting? Thanks.   Ronald Flash Dear Ron; Believe it or not, postcards have overtaken stamps and coins as the most collected item in North America. It even has a fancy name - "deltiology."   Before you start your collection, you should probably narrow your search to one or two subjects that interest you.   Many collectors focus on postcards that show locations or towns they have visited or lived in. Others base their collections on subjects like aviation, trains or ships. There are humorous cards, advertising cards, even cards depicting disasters (Titanic postcards are highly prized). The list is endless.   The Golden Age of postcards is from 1900 to the 1920's. The condition of old postcards is crucial to their value. Dog-eared or damaged postcards should be avoided. Look for cards in the best possible condition, or mint condition, if you can find them.To protect your postcards, keep them in a dry location out of sunlight in photo albums or boxes.   Most postcards are still quite affordable for the average collector, with prices usually ranging from $3 to $10. However, rare cards can top the $1,000.00 mark. One of the great things about collecting them is they are very accessible, easily stored and require very little dusting. They can range from incredible works of art to tacky souvenir items.   You can add to your collection by visiting antique shops and markets and many antique shows feature dealers who have a great selection of cards. There are some dealers who specialize in them. The Internet is also a good place to find them, as are postcard conventions. Good luck with your collection. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I need your help. Please tell me what the difference is between Art Nouveau and Art Deco. I recently watched a decorating show on television featuring both styles that was very interesting but it left me more confused than ever. So, what's the difference? Marion Murton Scarborough, Ontario   Dear Marion; The easiest way to learn about these two styles is to visit an antique store that specializes in them. This will enable you to pick up, hold and examine different pieces.   Dealers are more than willing to share their knowledge with interested collectors, but before you do this I will give you a bit of background information.   The Art Nouveau period predates Art Deco by approximately 25 years. It was started in France about 1895 and was considered by many to be an artistic rebellion of sorts against the staid, uptight and more formal styling of the Victorian period. This “new art” style (new for 1895) featured flowing lines, floral designs and the beauty of the feminine form. It was evident in ceramics, pottery, jewellery, art glass, lighting and even furniture and some architecture during this period. Artists referred to this as a curvilinear style, but if you think of a flowery Tiffany vase with flowing, gracious curves, you'll get the picture.   The Art Deco period also originated in France, showcasing at the Paris International Exhibition in 1925. Its popularity quickly spread across Europe and into North America.   Art Deco style really was a reflection of the times. Nicknamed the “Roaring Twenties”, it was a time of liberation, aerodynamic shapes, chromes cocktail shakers, jazz music and towering skyscrapers. With the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1923 came a fascination with Egyptian artifacts. These were also reflected in the art deco style.   Zig-zag lines and sharply angled abstract forms appeared in bakelite bracelets, jewellery, glass forms, sculptures and bronzes.   Sleek, elongated chrome hood ornaments became popular on cars of the time and even some train stations were built in the art deco style.   Of the two styles, my taste leans towards Art Deco because of its clean and simple lines, but both styles are very popular with collectors. Visit an antique shop or show, and enjoy your search. Above all, ask questions. Dealers don’t mind.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.   Dear Old Guy; At the last few antique shows I have attended, I noticed several dealers selling old fishing lures.Can you give me some advice about buying fishing related collectibles? Some are quite appealing, but I don’t know where to start. Ashleigh Brown Toronto   Dear Ashleigh, Over the past several years, interest in early fishing related items has increased tremendously, along with their prices. Some collectors specialize in wooden lures and/or rods or reels made by just one manufacturer, or many attempt to acquire every colour a specific lure was produced in.   Canadian manufacturers like Hex, Lucky Strike, and Williams’, just to mention a few, are also attracting great interest. Finding old tackle is still possible. It is hiding in garages, cottages, old boat houses, at antiques shows and shops; or can be found at live or on-line auctions if you have computer access. The value of individual baits is determined by age, rarity , colour and, like other collectibles, condition. Determining their value requires patience and research. Fortunately, many books are available to help with identification and pricing.   Two books I have used extensively are “Old Fishing Lures and Tackle,” by Carl F. Luckey, and “Fishing Lure Collectibles,” by Dudley Murphy and Rick Edmisten. On-line auctions, like eBay, are excellent for research and I would also recommend visiting the Canadian Antique Fishing Tackle Association’s website at www.cafta.ca which has various links to other sites with valuable information. Many of these people are more than happy to discuss collecting tackle and offer advice and even purchase items you may have. Most importantly - buy what you like! We call it “Retail Therapy.”   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers. Dear Old Guy; A few years ago the Wayback Times ran an article on antique markets and shows located in Florida. Is there somewhere that we can access this information?   We found it most useful when you first published it. We’re heading south shortly after the Christmas holidays.   Thank you for your time. Deborah Forster, Barrie Dear Deborah, Thanks for your inquiry. The Wayback Times has received many requests of the same nature, which has prompted us to run another article listing some of Florida’s antique shows and markets for our readers in the January/February 2010 issue.   I hope this helps you and others who are interested in exploring some locations in the sunny south. Have a safe and enjoyable trip.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My husband picked up this old beer can at a yard sale last summer and was wondering if it is worth anything. He is thinking of starting a collection to display in our bar in the basement and wants to know if you have any advice.   Mary Persaud, Brantford, Ont.   Hi Mary, There are lots of beer can collectors all over Canada and the U.S. and many attend “canventions” in both countries. There are beer can clubs, newsletters, price guides and beer can collector shows as well. Many items connected with breweriana are also collectable, like beer trays, beer advertising, beer signs and even beer calendars. Your husband's can is from The Falstaff Brewing Corporation in the United States and was produced in the 1970s. It is worth about $5 dollars in good condition. Beer can collectors will focus on certain brands, manufacturers or design themes.   Both Labatt’s and Molson’s in Canada had several different series of collectable cans depicting history, sporting events, teams and even the Olympics.   The most valuable cans are the “cone tops” which were produced from the mid 1930s until World War II. These cans sell well into the hundreds of dollars depending on condition unlike most collectable cans which can be picked up for a few dollars. Unfortunately, some cone tops are being reproduced. Apparently, STP engine treatment can tops are being added to older cans and sold as original cone tops. True collectors desire only clean, dent free, unscratched cans. Most collections consist of empty cans that have been opened from the bottom so that the “pull tab” or “pop top” remains intact. Having to choose between starting a beer can collection or a stamp collection wouldn't be too difficult for me. I would rather sample different cans of beer than lick stamps.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My husband and I purchased this old radio at an auction in Ottawa recently and would like to know if you can provide us with some information on it.   It still has the Stromberg-Carlson label on the front, but no other numbers or dates of manufacture. It is in excellent condition and works great.   We love it and would appreciate your help. Thank you,   Deb and Raymond Archer Ottawa ON   Hi Deb and Raymond; Your radio does look like it is in very good condition. The burled walnut veneer is very attractive, The Stromberg-Carlson Company manufactured this particular model in Rochester, New York, back in 1935. They originally started out as a telephone manufacturing company in 1894 but evolved into a radio manufacturer by 1923. The company's quality was so good it was often referred to as the Rolls Royce of radio manufacturers. Your specific model has what is called an airplane dial. This is a round dial with a pointer that covers a full 360 degrees, similar to aircraft instrumentation of that era. Above the airplane dial on your model is a “cat’s eye” which is a vacuum tube that aids in tuning in the broadcast and short wave signals that your radio receives.   This radio should give you many years of enjoyment and parts and tubes are still available for most repairs. A word of caution, however. Most vintage radios are not fused and therefore are not protected from abnormal operating conditions. Never leave it on when there is nobody in the house.   Today's value in its present condition is between $185 and $250. Enjoy your purchase and thanks for your email.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, I found this fishing lure in an old tackle box of my dad's. It doesn't have any name or label on it.   It is yellow in colour with gold spots. Would you be able to tell me anything about it or if it is valuable?   Thanks,   Philip Redman, Collingwood, ON Thanks for the question, Philip, . The wooden lure that you have is called a Globe and was manufactured by Pflueger (The Enterprise Mfg. Co.) in Akron, Ohio. Originally produced from 1909, Pflueger Globes are very collectible, partially because of their unique shape. Yours would have been made between 1930 and 1966.   If you tug gently on the head of the lure you will find that it pulls away from the body and springs back. Globes were made with that unique feature during those years only. The purpose of this spring system was to make it easier to untangle weeds when fishing. If you have a magnifying glass you will be able to see that your lure is marked on the propeller blade with the Pflueger Bulldog trademark.   There are newer versions of the same lure (without the spring-back feature) that have "made in Hong Kong" stamped under the Bulldog image.   Your yellow Globe with the gold spots in its present condition is worth about $40. If you would like further information, you can find it on the Canadian Antique Fishing Tackle Association website at www.cafta.ca. It also has links to several other informative sites. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I am thinking of starting an old fountain pen collection which I feel will enhance my small collection of antique poetry books. I live in a rather tiny apartment with limited space and thought that pens would be fairly easy to display in some nice cases without taking up too much room. The problem is, I have looked at many different pens at shows and shops in the Ottawa area but have no idea where to begin or what to look for. Some of them were quite beautiful but the range of prices scared me off. I need some advice.   Carol Watson, Ottawa, ON   Hello Carol, As a new fountain pen collector, you'll be in good company and derive years of enjoyment from searching for - and finding - this popular collectible. Acquiring vintage fountain pens has become a growing obsession with many collectors. The number and variety of pens out there can be intimidating. Browse through some collector books and surf the internet to get an idea of which type of pen appeals to you the most. Once you have an idea of what's available, the first thing I would suggest is to start your collection with a few pens of higher quality rather than purchasing a lot of cheaper bargain pens.   There is an old saying in the antique business that goes, "What is common now, will always be common.“   The fountain pen was invented way back in 1830 but was not manufactured and sold commercially until 1884. Today, some collectors focus on what is referred to as the "Golden Age" of fountain pens, which refers to pens manufactured before World War II. Others will concentrate on collecting pens made only by one company. The Big Four of pen manufacturers are comprised of the Sheaffer Pen Company, Parker Pen Company, Wahl-Eversharp Company and The Waterman Pen Company. There were also hundreds of other manufacturers producing millions of fountain pens as well.   I know of some collectors who acquire fountain pens based solely on their ink filling systems. The earliest systems used an eyedropper to fill the pens with ink. Different forms of pump fillers, such as lever fillers, vacuum fillers, crescent fillers and cartridge fillers followed these. In 1913 Waterman produced a rare pen that required a Waterman coin that was used to depress the ink sac to fill the pen.   There were even pens that required you to blow into the end of the pen with your mouth to compress the air sac, and when you stopped blowing the sac would draw ink into the pen. (I highly suspect that this quite often had disastrous results.)   The choices for starting a vintage fountain pen collection are almost endless. Some are exquisitely beautiful and others very utilitarian. You might consider locating a dealer in your area who is knowledgeable about pens and can help with advice. As well, there is an excellent website that I would highly recommend at: vintagepens.com. It covers just about everything you will need to know to start your collection including identification, pricing, and repairing vintage pens.   Many of the general antique guides have fairly good sections on pens and there are also several books written that are specifically about fountain pens, which you would find useful. Books are handy to carry along to shows and shops for reference purposes as well.   Thanks for your question. I hope this information helps.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My father left me a Steiff Teddy Bear that he had as a child. I believe it was given to him in the late 1930s. I would appreciate any information you could give me on its history and value. My sister thinks it could be quite valuable. Enclosed you will find pictures of it. Thank you. Nora Webster, Brampton, ON   Dear Nora; It is a Steiff bear and many are quite valuable. Let me first give you the "bear facts" about the Steiff Company. Margarete Steiff was born in Giengen, Germany in 1847. She was crippled with polio as a small child and spent the rest of her life confined to a wheel chair.   Margarete began taking sewing lessons and became an accomplished seamstress. By the age of 30, she was running her own company, manufacturing and selling clothing and outerwear. In 1886, she began manufacturing felt-covered pull toys and stuffed animals including an elephant with an s-shaped trunk that eventually became the Steiff Company trademark.   During the next several years, the toy making division of her company out sold the clothing manufacturing part and the rest is toy history.   The Steiff Toy Company began making stuffed toy bears in 1892, but the famous stand- up style bear with jointed arms and legs did not appear until 1902. That same year in the United States something happened that would help ensure the success of the Steiff Company for years to come. This as they say "is the rest of the story."   President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt was on a hunting trip in Mississippi. To ensure he would get a kill on his trip to their state, the hosts arranged to tie a captured bear to a tree to await the great white hunter. The president found this appalling and refused to shoot the bear.   When hearing of this story, Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist with the Washington Post, depicted the incident in a cartoon referring to the bear as Teddy's Bear. The cartoon was featured on the front page of the Post and from then on every political cartoon Berryman drew that included the president, Teddy's Bear would always appear in the background. (It was similar to the way Andy Donato's bird always appears in his Toronto Sun cartoons.)   After viewing Berrymans cartoon, Morris and Rose Michtom, candy store owners in Brooklyn, N.Y., recognized an opportunity. They made a stuffed toy Teddy's Bear and displayed it in their candy store window. The bears began selling so well they closed the candy store and started the now famous Ideal Novelty and Toy Company. Eventually the term "Teddy's Bear" evolved into teddy bear.   The Steiff Company in Germany joined the Teddy Bear parade and have been producing high quality teddy bears ever since. An embossed button sewn into their left ear distinguishes Steiff teddy bears. The first buttons were either blank or featured that elephant image mentioned earlier. After 1906, the Steiff name appears on the button.   Older Steiff teddy bears have brought sellers incredible prices at auctions and toy sales. In 1994, Yoshihiro Sekiguchi, founder of the Teddy Bear Museum in Izu, Japan, paid more than $200,000 for a 1904 cinnamon Steiff bear at auction. Your bear is not in that range, but it is still worth between $250 and $300 in its present condition.   "Arctophily" is the term used to describe teddy bear collecting and the following are a few hints to help collectors estimate the approximate age of their bears. Teddy bears manufactured in the early 1900's had prominent humped backs, long legs and arms and long protruding snouts and tiny ears.   Bears from the 1920's had shorter arms, legs and feet. In the 1930s, bears had rounder heads and noses and their ears became much larger.   From 1945 on teddy bears became much cuter, less bear like and the humped back disappeared.   Thanks for your question, Nora. I hope my information covers more than the "bear necessities" of teddy bear collecting.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My wife and I attended the Fort Henry Antique Show in Kingston this summer after seeing their ad in the Wayback Times, and I must thank you folks. It was a great show and an amazing place to visit. I would recommend it highly to anyone interested in our great country's history. While we were there, we purchased a stereoscope viewer and set of six photo cards from one of their dealers for $85. We have since bought additional cards and it has turned into a great form of entertainment with our friends and family. I would like to know if I paid a reasonable price and would appreciate it if you could give me some information on the history of these 3D viewers?   John C. Twiford, Oshawa, ON   Hi John; Thank you for your e-mail. I have been to the Fort Henry Show before and it is an incredible place to visit and a great venue for an antique show.   It sounds like you got a good deal on your purchase. Depending on condition, the hand-held stereoscopes sell in the $75 to $125 range even without a set of cards.   Many years back, long before DVDs, Ipods and televisions, most households owned a collection of viewing cards and stereoscope. They were tremendously popular during the late 1800s and up until the 1920s. The original concept of the stereoscope goes back to 1838 and is attributed to Sir Charles Wheatstone of Gloucester England. He proved that the human mind could perceive objects in three dimensions, creating the illusion of depth when each eye receives a slightly different view. His first stereo cards were hand drawn because his invention preceded photography.   In 1859, Oliver Wendell Homes developed the hand-held style viewer that you have. A camera with two separate lenses took stereo pictures and both were mounted on a card separated by approximately the same distance that is between the average adult's eyes. The resulting images enabled viewers to travel the world, view history and even enjoy comical scenes in 3D in the comfort of their own parlours.   Eventually, other forms of entertainment, like radios and movie theaters, signaled the end of the stereoscope’s huge popularity. Lots of single viewing cards and card sets can still be purchased at reasonable prices if you care to add to the enjoyment of your stereoscope. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I have very fond Christmas memories of a toy bear that was Santa's helper back when I was a child. His name was "Punkinhead." I can't seem to find any history on him. My kids keep joking that Punkinhead is a figment of my imagination and my two granddaughters think I'm losing it. I would appreciate any information you could give me about this bear.   Susan McBain Toronto, Ontario Dear Susan: Charles Thorson, an animator for the T. Eaton Company, was the creator of "Punkinhead." This lovable bear first appeared in the Eaton's Santa Claus Parade back in 1947 and showed up every Christmas as Santa's helper.   Thorson also illustrated the first booklet, "Punkinhead The Sad Little Bear." It was a 16-page booklet distributed free to children at the 1948 Santa Parade and throughout Eaton's stores that Christmas. Thirteen more booklets followed in the next several years, along with a slew of Punkinhead-related products that Eaton's marketed successfully across Canada. There were Punkinhead watches, children's clothing, puppets, storybooks, colouring books, records and even a line of children's furniture decorated with Punkinhead's image. He even appeared in television commercials for Eaton's in the 1950s.   The actual toy bear, with its characteristic blonde tuft of hair, was manufactured in England by the Merrythought Toy Company exclusively for the T. Eaton Company. Punkinhead was produced in three sizes and soon became a favourite at Christmas time for kids across the country. To add to his fame, Canadian country singer Wilf Carter recorded a song about the well-known little bear.   Sadly, by 1960, poor Punkinhead was well into hibernation as far as Eaton's was concerned. He is still quite collectable in Canada, occasionally showing up at antique toy shows and on eBay. With a little bit of searching, you might be able to pick up a Punkinhead for your granddaughters as proof that he did exist.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy The Old Guy wishes all of the Wayback Times readers and advertisers a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season.   (Image used with permission of Sears Canada Inc.)   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My husband and I just purchased an antique kitchen cupboard from a dealer near Barrie. We both love it, and it looks great in our farmhouse kitchen. The metal plaque on the top of the cupboard says “Knechtel Kitchen Kabinet” but the dealer at the antique store referred to it as a “Hoosier Cupboard”. Was he incorrect by calling it that?   Pattie and Bill Harnum, Peterborough, ON   Dear Pattie, The cupboard you purchased was made by the Knechtel Furniture Company of Hanover, Ontario, probably in the early 1900s, and is commonly referred to as a “Hoosier Style” cupboard. The original Hoosier Manufacturing Co., based in New Castle, Indiana, was the largest manufacturer of these practical, all-in-one kitchen workstations. Thousands of these kitchen cupboards were produced for the ultra modern kitchens of the early 1900s and “Hoosier Cupboard” became the generic term used by most people. Other major manufacturers of these cupboards included McDougall, Kitchen Maid, Sellers and Napanee. By 1930, builders started designing houses with built-in cupboards or cabinetry and the glory days of the Hoosier came to an end. Most Hoosier cupboards or, as some people called them, ‘The Woman’s Workbench,” were four feet wide by six feet tall and comprised of three sections; the bottom, or base section, usually on casters, contained up to three drawers on one side and a large door on the other side, which opened to reveal ample space for pots, pans, and bowls.   The biggest drawer was often metal lined for storage of flour. The middle section contained a metal or porcelain counter, which could be pulled forward and used as a work surface. Under this shelf were two shallow drawers used for utensil storage. The top section was not as deep and had a roll up (or tambour) door, smaller double doors with shelves and metal racks to hold recipe cards or cookbooks. There was also a long door that hid the four sifter.   A whole new world of collecting can open up to people wishing to stock their Hoosiers with original accessories. Sugar bins, coffee and tea canisters, salt and pepper shakers, and Hoosier spice jars are just a few. Original sets of Hoosier glassware are very collectible.   In its day, the Hoosier cupboard was a modern time and work saving device. Today, they are much sought after by antique lovers and people restoring older homes. Reproduction hardware like hinges and drawer handles are widely available.   Enjoy your Hoosier and thanks for writing.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy I have recently started collecting carnival glass because I just love the look of it, but I don't know much about it. How old is it and do you know how they produce those beautiful colours? Should I worry about buying reproductions?   Bree Riley-Mitsu London, Ontario   Dear Bree, Carnival glass, commonly referred to as the "Poor man's Tiffany Glass," is probably the most collected type of glass in today's marketplace. The Fenton Art Glass Co. was one of the first manufacturers of carnival glass back in 1905. The name carnival glass is derived from the fact that thousands of pieces were given out as prizes at fairs and carnivals. It quickly became very collectable due to its beautiful appearance and reasonable cost. Many pieces, depending on their colour and patterns, can still be purchased for under $100, but the more rare and harder- to-find pieces can fetch thousands of dollars.   The process of making carnival glass involves applying metallic salts to the still- hot pressed glass as it cools. This results in the beautiful iridescent sheen that first attracted you as a collector. Fenton produced over 100 different patterns but other prominent manufacturers include Northwood, Westmoreland, Imperial, Millersburg, Dugan & Diamond and U.S. Glass. There are over 2,000 identified patterns in circulation.   Most manufacturers had ceased production by 1930, but new carnival glass has been reintroduced to the market for the past 25 years. It is usually quite easy to tell the difference between an original piece and a reproduction, but having said that, there are also some excellent reproductions that can fool even a seasoned collector. Fenton itself has reissued many patterns.   If you have access to a computer, there is an excellent web site by David Doty that enables you to look up pieces of carnival glass by pattern, shape, or manufacturer. The site is http://www.ddoty.com and it contains over 4,000 photos and 16,000 pages dedicated to carnival glass. It also includes information on fakes and reproductions as well as current values.   There are also many books available and several carnival glass collector clubs in Canada. The Canadian Carnival Glass Association is holding its 25th convention out your way in Brantford Ontario in September. They will have carnival glass for sale, a free ID clinic and an auction. The dates are September 18, 19, and 20. If you need more information on the convention or would like to become a member, you can contact Ginny at 905 686-1885 or Pauline at 519 752-3057. Books are an important resource for any collector. One book that comes highly recommended is The Standard Encyclopedia of Carnival Glass, 11th Edition by Mike Carwile. This new publication is discussed in the Wayback Times Book Review (this issue). It just might be the perfect way to start your library on carnival glass. Thanks for your question and enjoy your collection.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.         Dear Old Guy My husband's parents are in the process of downsizing and moving into a condo. They have given us their beautiful set of Blue Willow china that originally belonged to their parents. It has 12 complete place settings and in total, there are almost 100 pieces. I have always loved this set and would like to keep it in great condition so we can pass it on down to our daughter when the time comes. Since it is probably about 70 years old, does it require any special treatment when being cleaned and stored? My mother-in-law has always hand washed the set but I wondered if I could use the dishwasher. Also, could you explain the story behind the Blue Willow pattern?   Denise Cooper Markham ON   Dear Denise, The blue willow pattern, produced since 1780, is still being manufactured.Your set was made by the Buffalo Pottery Co. and could be at least 70 years old since they started making this version of the blue willow transfer ware pattern in 1905. As far as caring for this lovely set, just remember a few simple things:   - Do not use a dishwasher to clean any of these pieces. (Your mother-in-law had the right idea.) Although being fairly sturdily made, the dishwasher can cause crazed pieces to break off or lose portions of their glaze;   - Hand wash with a mild detergent and soft cloth. A fellow antique dealer suggests placing a large folded towel at the bottom of the sink when washing each piece to act as a cushion, should any items accidentally slip from your grasp;   - Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Moving a dish from the fridge into a sink of hot water can cause cracking or breakage;   - You can use a solution of baking soda and water to remove any coffee or tea stains. More stubborn stains may require soaking over night;   - Do not hide this set away in box. Store it in your china cabinet so it can be viewed and enjoyed by your family. To prevent scratches when stacking plates on top of each other, place a piece of cloth or tissue paper between each plate or go to a dollar store and purchase some cheap paper doilies and use them to separate the plates.   There are several versions of the Blue Willow legend to coincide with the different patterns. The most common and preferred version (obviously condensed) is as follows:   Once upon a time, hundreds of years ago, there was a rich old Mandarin who had an only daughter named Li-Chi. They lived in a large two-storey home, which was a rare thing in China in those days. The beautiful young daughter fell in love with her father's employee, Chiang. The father disapproved because he wanted her to marry a rich man and Chiang was very poor. The daughter was sent to live in the garden house by the willow tree so she would not be able to see Chiang again. Chiang, however, was not ready to give up and he sent a letter to Li-Chi asking her to run away with him. She agreed, but they had to cross the bridge to escape. Her father, the Mandarin, saw them escaping and he chased them. Just as the young lovers were about to be caught, the gods took pity on them and turned them into doves so they could fly away safely and live happily ever after. Pictured on the bridge in the Blue Willow pattern, you can see the three main figures. First is Li-Chi holding her distaff, followed by Chiang holding a jewel box, and chasing them is the father holding a whip. Other versions of this same legend involve jealousy, betrayal, revenge, arson and murder. In fact, you could make a TV mini series from the story behind the Blue Willow design.   Thanks for your question and enjoy your new-to-you old set of dishes. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, We recently picked up a copy of the Wayback Times at Southworks Antiques in Cambridge and were happy to find your column. For quite some time, we have wanted to get information on Buddy L Toys, as my father has a large Buddy L train engine that he remembers getting for Christmas some time in the 1940s. It is still in very good condition and has been greatly enjoyed by several generations. I know that you do not do individual appraisals in your column but could you please give me some information on this toy? Thank you.   Karen Parker-Smith London, ON   Dear Karen; Buddy L Toys have become very desirable with collectors and their prices have steadily increased over the years. The company was started in 1910 by Fred Lundahl and was originally operated as the Moline Pressed Steel Company, which manufactured steel parts for trucks and farm machinery. Fred eventually began making heavy gauge steel toys for his son Arthur (nicknamed Buddy). The sturdy toys were a hit with his son and the neighbourhood kids. Word spread and by 1921 Fred turned his company into a full time toy manufacturer which he named after his son.   The company built heavy gauge steel model toy trucks, cars, construction equipment, emergency vehicles, and, yes, trains. These were big, (20 to 26 inches in length) solidly built toys that were large enough for children to ride on and made to last. All had moving parts and some even had working hydraulics.   Buddy L became a trusted name and one of the most successful metal toy manufacturers in the world. The advent of World War II created a shortage of steel and the company started making wooden toys. After the war, they returned to producing steel toys but in a lighter gauge and smaller size.   They continued to manufacture quality toys until the company was sold to the Japanese in the 1970s. Today, Buddy L Toys are manufactured in China and are made almost entirely of plastic.   Toys manufactured before the 1960s are the most collectable, with the pre-war models commanding the highest prices. The heavier gauge Buddy L Toys made from the 1920s to the early 1940s, like your father's, can reach values into the thousands of dollars, depending on condition. There are several good price guides available in book stores, but you might be wise to have a look on eBay for a more recent valuation. (A quick look there recently showed there were 535 Buddy L items listed for sale.)   There are also several excellent toy and nostalgia shows that advertise regularly in the Wayback Times that would be well worth a visit just to check out their prices on Buddy L toys. Many of these shows feature appraisal clinics and if that’s not the case, most dealers at these shows are more than happy to share their knowledge with interested collectors.   Due to the quality that Buddy L was known for, that old toy train engine will probably be around for a very long time with the proper care.   Thanks again. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy My husband will be reaching retirement age in three years and we are thinking of getting into the antiques business.We have both been avid collectors over the years and we absolutely love antiques. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Beth and Sandy Robertson, Hamilton, ON Dear Beth & Sandy, Loving antiques is probably the worst reason to get into the antiques business. You might end up sitting in a shop not wanting to sell your favorite pieces. The key is being able to get your customer to love what you are selling. That’s marketing.   Before jumping into the business with both feet, or all four feet in your case, here are a few things to consider. Renting and advertising, or purchasing a shop is expensive.You might want to start out by setting up shop in an antique mall.You will be required to pay a monthly rent and probably a percentage of your total sales to management, but it will be much less than funding your own shop and, just as important, leaves you free to search for more product.   This business is not like working for Wal-Mart, where you can just pick up the phone and order more size eight shoes when you sell out. You must cultivate and develop a relationship with different sources for finding antiques and this takes time.   Many established dealers rely on regular pickers to supply them with inventory, or they attend auctions and estate sales. These sources require an investment of both time and money and you should have sufficient knowledge to ensure you are purchasing well.   You might also consider selling your antiques at one of the many antique shows. Most advertisements for these shows will have a number you can call or an email address for information and many organizers are looking for new vendors. You will be charged a rental fee for your area and there is a lot of hard work involved in setting up and taking down your booth, but your product will be exposed to a large number of potential buyers over a short period of time.   Make sure you pricing is comparable to those of the other dealers. The first show I did many years ago was an eye opener for me. I had sold over a thousand dollars worth of stock before the show even opened. Obviously my prices were much too low and several knowledgeable dealers jumped at the chance to relieve me of my most saleable pieces. The internet is also a viable option for both selling and buying. eBay is one of the best known auction sites, or you could opt to create your own website and buy and sell from it.   There are many books and price guides available to help you in valuing your antiques. Visit as many shops as you can and learn from other dealers. Watch what they do and learn from their good habits as well as their bad. Many existing antique shops take the same approach to marketing year after year. If you want to stand out in this business then you have to come up with something new.   It is also important that you know your product. It can be an exciting journey into the world of antiques and you will meet a lot of interesting and knowledgeable people along the way.You will also meet a few real characters as well. Good luck to both of you and thanks for the letter. The Old Guy.   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: This summer at the Odessa Antique Show, I purchased an old photograph encased in glass in a small metal hinged frame that opens like a tiny book. The dealer that I bought it from told me it was a Daguerreotype, but my husband thinks it could be a tintype photograph. How can we tell the difference?   Jan & Walter Jamieson, Belleville, ON   Dear Jan and Walter, thanks for the question folks. Without seeing the photograph myself it is hard to tell for sure, but the fact that it is framed and under glass suggests that it probably is a daguerreotype. I will try and explain the differences and give you a bit of the history of photography so you can decide for yourselves. Up until 1839, when Louis Mande Daguerre introduced his picture taking process, anyone wishing for a picture of a loved one or favourite scene would have to pay for a portrait or landscape artist to paint one. Daguerreotypes were the earliest form of photographic images and although quite costly to purchase in their time, they were much less expensive than hiring an artist to paint. It's no wonder Daguerreotypes became so popular. It is estimated that in the first 20 years after their introduction, over 30 million were produced in North America alone.   Here are the differences between Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, and Tintype images:   Daguerreotypes; Produced from 1840 -1860 This image was made by light striking a polished silver plate and since silver will tarnish the pictures were encased behind glass and sealed from the air at the back with paper and tape. This process makes Daguerreotypes very reflective, like a mirror and most of the smaller ones were produced in hinged cases.   Ambrotypes; Produced from 1855-1865 Many Ambrotypes were also produced in hinged cases, but these pictures did not require a paper seal on the back. The image was printed right on the glass using a photographic emulsion. If you remove an Ambrotype from its case and hold it up to the light you can actually see through it.   Tin types These were introduced after 1855 and were also referred to as Ferrotypes. Instead of setting the image on glass, the picture was reproduced on a thin piece of black enameled or japanned tin. These images did not have to be encased to prevent tarnishing and most are found loose or in old photo albums or cardboard frames.   The value of Daguerreotypes depends on who or what's in the picture and also on the size. Full or whole plate size (6 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches) is the most valued, with smaller sizes commanding lower prices.   Ever wonder why nobody ever seems to smile in these old pictures? It's because the subjects had to sit still for up to 40 minutes in some cases for the picture taking process to be completed. My father always said they never smiled because they worked so hard back then they didn't have any energy left to smile.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, I have a 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer Catalogue that I have had since new. I was wondering if it is worth anything. If not, I’ll just keep it because I enjoy looking at the old fashions and comparing the prices with today’s. Thank you,   Susan Cook Stratford   Dear Susan, The 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer catalogue you have was actually the last one produced by the T. Eaton Company. Despite this, it has very little monetary value due to the large number of catalogues circulated at the time. The value that it does retain, however, is in the nostalgia offered on each and every page.   The Eaton Company history started when Timothy Eaton, a hard working Irish immigrant, sold his interest in a small dry goods store in St. Marys, Ontario and opened the T. Eaton Company in Toronto in 1869 at 178 Yonge Street. In 1883, he moved the store to 190 Yonge Street. The new store boasted the first electric lights of any store in Canada and it also had the largest plate glass windows in Toronto. In 1886, Eaton installed the city’s first retail store elevator, but it only took customers up. They were required to take the flights of stairs down the three existing floors, thus being exposed to the displays of Eatons merchandise and advertising.   The Eatons catalogue started in 1884 and quickly became a valuable tool in rural Canada. It was commonly referred to as the “Homesteader’s Bible." Rural families could finally purchase the same products as city folks. By 1912, you could order a house from the catalogue for $895 and have it delivered to your property free of charge. Communities could also order school houses from Eatons.   A classic children’s story was written by Roch Carrier about a Quebec mother who had ordered a Montreal Canadiens hockey sweater from the Eatons catalogue for her son. When the package arrived her son was horrified to find that “Mr. Eaton” had substituted a Toronto Maple Leaf sweater instead. Eatons, at one time, had over 70,000 employees and was one of Canada’s largest employers.   The Eatons catalogue was published for 92 years until 1976. Six years later, the renowned Eatons Santa Claus Parade was cancelled and, sadly, in 1999 the Eatons empire turned its last page. One of my fondest childhood memories of Eatons was the frequent visits to the downtown Toronto store with my randmother (an Irish immigrant herself) and watching her touch the left toe of the bronze Timothy Eaton statue every time she entered the building. Shoppers and employees alike would rub Timothy’s left shoe for good luck, eventually leaving him with one very shiny toe. His statue now resides at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, where his toe likely still shines. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: I want to start a collection Fiesta dinnerware and I need your help.I love the bright colours and style of Fiesta ceramics, but I'm not sure how to tell the difference between the original Fiesta and the reproductions now available. When I go to auctions I'm afraid to bid without knowing how to tell the difference. Could you give me some information on this, please? Laura Maxwell Ajax, Ontario Dear Laura; Fiestaware is very popular with collectors today. The Homer Laughlin China Company originally started manufacturing this colourful dinnerware in 1936 and continued production until 1972. The reproduction Fiesta you refer to is still made by Homer Laughlin. They reintroduced the line in 1986. Back in 1936, the original Fiesta came in five colours; Red, Yellow, Light Green, Ivory and Cobalt Blue. Turquoise was added in 1937. In 1951, Rose, Chartreuse, Gray and Dark Green were introduced. Colours were dropped and reintroduced, but yellow was the only colour continuously manufactured for Fiesta’s 36 year run.   Other than identifying the age of a Fiesta piece by colour, you can also determine its age by examining the glaze. The newer Fiesta has a shinier finish and is smooth to the touch. If your piece is stamped on the back or bottom in lower case letters, it is old. If upper case letters (capitals) are used, it is new. The newer pieces are also slightly smaller due to the use of fully vitrified clay. Some of the newer pieces will be stamped "60th anniversary" or "lead free". These are obviously new.   At its peak, the Fiesta line was comprised of 64 different items, so don't limit your collection to just plates or cups and saucers. The art deco design and durable construction have made the Fiesta line very collectable. A word of caution; do not use the old Fiestaware to serve food or drinks. It contains lead which can leach into certain foods. The newer products are safe to use. Enjoy collecting Fiestaware.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; We are hoping you can answer a question for us. While cleaning out some old boxes in our basement yesterday, we came across a PEZ dispenser that I remember getting in my Christmas stocking back in the '60s. Are these considered a "collectible" now? Thanks Charles and Ashleigh Saylor Toronto Dear Charles and Ashleigh, I think Santa handed out a lot of PEZ dispensers over the years. I remember getting mine in the '50s and he's still handing them out today.   Yes, PEZ dispensers are quite collectible. Originally manufactured as a breath mint for smokers, the PEZ people made the right decision to change their focus and direct their marketing efforts toward kids.   These colourful candy dispensers featured comic and storybook characters’ heads that would spit out cubes of candy. How could any kid resist that?   PEZ dispensers made prior to 1987 did not have feet and command a higher price, but lately collectors are buying the newer footed dispensers to enhance and complete their collections.   If you are considering starting your own collection, remember to avoid damaged or broken PEZ characters and look for evidence of foot removal. Prices for the newer PEZ models start from $2 to $3 and can jump to several hundred dollars for the older (footless) ones. A rare Lions Club lion PEZ commands upward of $2,000 US. There are PEZ clubs, books on PEZ and even PEZ conventions. A web site full of information, found at www.PEZ.com, has been set up by the PEZ company where you will be able to find your recently rediscovered PEZ, along with hundreds of others.   On the PEZ web site, it states that over three billion PEZ candies are consumed annually in the USA alone. However, since yours is from the '60s, I would avoid eating the candy.   Thanks for your email. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My mother has a collection of Royal Doulton Toby Jugs that she sometimes refers to as "character" jugs. She started collecting them about 30 years ago and has been given several more by friends. Could you please give us some information on determining their age and value? We would also like some advice on adding to the collection for investment purposes. Cynthia Spencer London   Dear Cynthia, First, there is no guarantee you will make money with any collectible. Markets, trends and prices can change rapidly. The best advice is to buy what you like, just in case you end up owning it forever.   Having said that, specializing in discontinued Toby jugs can give you a step up on other collectors. Their value tend to increase due to lack of availability. Get to know reputable dealers who specialize in Royal Doulton and leave your wish list with them. A large number of the more desirable pieces never appear on the open market because they are sold to collectors who previously left orders with their dealers.   Also, try to contact other Doulton collectors or join a Royal Doulton collector club. These people can be a valuable asset when determining market changes and many will trade with you. When purchasing, always take your time, closely examining each item before buying. Watch for hairline cracks and look for colour variations that might indicate repairs or restorations.   Dating Royal Doulton character jugs is not a simple task without reference books, but here are a few hints that might help. In character jugs produced before the early 1960’s, the eyes have indented pupils. After that period, they were made with smooth rounded eyes.   Many of the pre-1960’s jugs have colouring on the lip inside the top of the jug. Each Royal Doulton jug has the famous crown and lion back stamp on its base. The early character jugs can be dated if there is a number to the right of the lion and crown symbol. This system of dating begins with a number 1 in 1928 and goes up to number 27 in 1954. The simple way to arrive at the production date is to add 1927 to the number. (For example: 12 would be 12 + 1927 = the year 1939.)   Various price and identification books are available. However, the one drawback in relying solely on price guides is obtaining current value. As I said before, markets change. Searching eBay’s current and recently sold items on your computer will give you a more realistic idea of your Toby’s value and what people will actually pay. Enjoy your collection and thank you for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My Uncle Norm gave me a large dresser (he calls it a bonnet chest) that he had sitting in his basement for years. I think it is mahogany or cherry wood. I love the look of it and it's in good condition but I am a little nervous about how to care for it. Do you have any suggestions? Jack Riley Toronto   Dear Jack, Relax! This piece has probably survived more than 100 years already. You don't have to be afraid of it because it's old. It will probably outlast most furniture made today if you follow a few simple guidelines.   Keep your bonnet chest out of direct sunlight. Ordinary exposure to light has given this piece its soft, mellow patina, but excessive sunlight can crack and damage veneers. Heat and dryness are also enemies of all wooden furniture, especially during our cold winters. A humidifier is always a good investment.   Do not over-polish your piece. Using a beeswax polish once or twice a year is sufficient. Over-polishing, or using too much polish can clog the pores of the wood and create a sticky surface. Never use silicon-based sprays. They create a shiny surface on the wood while drying the inside. If the chest does have a veneered surface, be careful when polishing or dusting not to break off raised fragments of veneer.   Most antique furniture was very well made and by following these hints yours will survive many more years.   By the way, the reason your uncle referred to this as a bonnet chest is because of the two upper drawers (sometimes there are three). These top drawers were designed to be deeper than the lower drawers so they could accommodate the fashionable hats or bonnets of the time.   Enjoy your bonnet chest.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I purchased a box of books at an auction last week and found several interesting old postcards inside the cover of one of them. Can you give me some information on postcard collecting? Thanks.   Ronald Flash Dear Ron; Believe it or not, postcards have overtaken stamps and coins as the most collected item in North America. It even has a fancy name - "deltiology."   Before you start your collection, you should probably narrow your search to one or two subjects that interest you.   Many collectors focus on postcards that show locations or towns they have visited or lived in. Others base their collections on subjects like aviation, trains or ships. There are humorous cards, advertising cards, even cards depicting disasters (Titanic postcards are highly prized). The list is endless.   The Golden Age of postcards is from 1900 to the 1920's. The condition of old postcards is crucial to their value. Dog-eared or damaged postcards should be avoided. Look for cards in the best possible condition, or mint condition, if you can find them.To protect your postcards, keep them in a dry location out of sunlight in photo albums or boxes.   Most postcards are still quite affordable for the average collector, with prices usually ranging from $3 to $10. However, rare cards can top the $1,000.00 mark. One of the great things about collecting them is they are very accessible, easily stored and require very little dusting. They can range from incredible works of art to tacky souvenir items.   You can add to your collection by visiting antique shops and markets and many antique shows feature dealers who have a great selection of cards. There are some dealers who specialize in them. The Internet is also a good place to find them, as are postcard conventions. Good luck with your collection. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I need your help. Please tell me what the difference is between Art Nouveau and Art Deco. I recently watched a decorating show on television featuring both styles that was very interesting but it left me more confused than ever. So, what's the difference? Marion Murton Scarborough, Ontario   Dear Marion; The easiest way to learn about these two styles is to visit an antique store that specializes in them. This will enable you to pick up, hold and examine different pieces.   Dealers are more than willing to share their knowledge with interested collectors, but before you do this I will give you a bit of background information.   The Art Nouveau period predates Art Deco by approximately 25 years. It was started in France about 1895 and was considered by many to be an artistic rebellion of sorts against the staid, uptight and more formal styling of the Victorian period. This “new art” style (new for 1895) featured flowing lines, floral designs and the beauty of the feminine form. It was evident in ceramics, pottery, jewellery, art glass, lighting and even furniture and some architecture during this period. Artists referred to this as a curvilinear style, but if you think of a flowery Tiffany vase with flowing, gracious curves, you'll get the picture.   The Art Deco period also originated in France, showcasing at the Paris International Exhibition in 1925. Its popularity quickly spread across Europe and into North America.   Art Deco style really was a reflection of the times. Nicknamed the “Roaring Twenties”, it was a time of liberation, aerodynamic shapes, chromes cocktail shakers, jazz music and towering skyscrapers. With the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1923 came a fascination with Egyptian artifacts. These were also reflected in the art deco style.   Zig-zag lines and sharply angled abstract forms appeared in bakelite bracelets, jewellery, glass forms, sculptures and bronzes.   Sleek, elongated chrome hood ornaments became popular on cars of the time and even some train stations were built in the art deco style.   Of the two styles, my taste leans towards Art Deco because of its clean and simple lines, but both styles are very popular with collectors. Visit an antique shop or show, and enjoy your search. Above all, ask questions. Dealers don’t mind.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.   Dear Old Guy; At the last few antique shows I have attended, I noticed several dealers selling old fishing lures.Can you give me some advice about buying fishing related collectibles? Some are quite appealing, but I don’t know where to start. Ashleigh Brown Toronto   Dear Ashleigh, Over the past several years, interest in early fishing related items has increased tremendously, along with their prices. Some collectors specialize in wooden lures and/or rods or reels made by just one manufacturer, or many attempt to acquire every colour a specific lure was produced in.   Canadian manufacturers like Hex, Lucky Strike, and Williams’, just to mention a few, are also attracting great interest. Finding old tackle is still possible. It is hiding in garages, cottages, old boat houses, at antiques shows and shops; or can be found at live or on-line auctions if you have computer access. The value of individual baits is determined by age, rarity , colour and, like other collectibles, condition. Determining their value requires patience and research. Fortunately, many books are available to help with identification and pricing.   Two books I have used extensively are “Old Fishing Lures and Tackle,” by Carl F. Luckey, and “Fishing Lure Collectibles,” by Dudley Murphy and Rick Edmisten. On-line auctions, like eBay, are excellent for research and I would also recommend visiting the Canadian Antique Fishing Tackle Association’s website at www.cafta.ca which has various links to other sites with valuable information. Many of these people are more than happy to discuss collecting tackle and offer advice and even purchase items you may have. Most importantly - buy what you like! We call it “Retail Therapy.”   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers. Dear Old Guy; My father left me a Steiff Teddy Bear that he had as a child. I believe it was given to him in the late 1930s. I would appreciate any information you could give me on its history and value. My sister thinks it could be quite valuable. Enclosed you will find pictures of it. Thank you. Nora Webster, Brampton, ON   Dear Nora; It is a Steiff bear and many are quite valuable. Let me first give you the "bear facts" about the Steiff Company. Margarete Steiff was born in Giengen, Germany in 1847. She was crippled with polio as a small child and spent the rest of her life confined to a wheel chair.   Margarete began taking sewing lessons and became an accomplished seamstress. By the age of 30, she was running her own company, manufacturing and selling clothing and outerwear. In 1886, she began manufacturing felt-covered pull toys and stuffed animals including an elephant with an s-shaped trunk that eventually became the Steiff Company trademark.   During the next several years, the toy making division of her company out sold the clothing manufacturing part and the rest is toy history.   The Steiff Toy Company began making stuffed toy bears in 1892, but the famous stand- up style bear with jointed arms and legs did not appear until 1902. That same year in the United States something happened that would help ensure the success of the Steiff Company for years to come. This as they say "is the rest of the story."   President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt was on a hunting trip in Mississippi. To ensure he would get a kill on his trip to their state, the hosts arranged to tie a captured bear to a tree to await the great white hunter. The president found this appalling and refused to shoot the bear.   When hearing of this story, Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist with the Washington Post, depicted the incident in a cartoon referring to the bear as Teddy's Bear. The cartoon was featured on the front page of the Post and from then on every political cartoon Berryman drew that included the president, Teddy's Bear would always appear in the background. (It was similar to the way Andy Donato's bird always appears in his Toronto Sun cartoons.)   After viewing Berrymans cartoon, Morris and Rose Michtom, candy store owners in Brooklyn, N.Y., recognized an opportunity. They made a stuffed toy Teddy's Bear and displayed it in their candy store window. The bears began selling so well they closed the candy store and started the now famous Ideal Novelty and Toy Company. Eventually the term "Teddy's Bear" evolved into teddy bear.   The Steiff Company in Germany joined the Teddy Bear parade and have been producing high quality teddy bears ever since. An embossed button sewn into their left ear distinguishes Steiff teddy bears. The first buttons were either blank or featured that elephant image mentioned earlier. After 1906, the Steiff name appears on the button.   Older Steiff teddy bears have brought sellers incredible prices at auctions and toy sales. In 1994, Yoshihiro Sekiguchi, founder of the Teddy Bear Museum in Izu, Japan, paid more than $200,000 for a 1904 cinnamon Steiff bear at auction. Your bear is not in that range, but it is still worth between $250 and $300 in its present condition.   "Arctophily" is the term used to describe teddy bear collecting and the following are a few hints to help collectors estimate the approximate age of their bears. Teddy bears manufactured in the early 1900's had prominent humped backs, long legs and arms and long protruding snouts and tiny ears.   Bears from the 1920's had shorter arms, legs and feet. In the 1930s, bears had rounder heads and noses and their ears became much larger.   From 1945 on teddy bears became much cuter, less bear like and the humped back disappeared.   Thanks for your question, Nora. I hope my information covers more than the "bear necessities" of teddy bear collecting.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, My wife and I attended the Fort Henry Antique Show in Kingston this summer after seeing their ad in the Wayback Times, and I must thank you folks. It was a great show and an amazing place to visit. I would recommend it highly to anyone interested in our great country's history. While we were there, we purchased a stereoscope viewer and set of six photo cards from one of their dealers for $85. We have since bought additional cards and it has turned into a great form of entertainment with our friends and family. I would like to know if I paid a reasonable price and would appreciate it if you could give me some information on the history of these 3D viewers?   John C. Twiford, Oshawa, ON   Hi John; Thank you for your e-mail. I have been to the Fort Henry Show before and it is an incredible place to visit and a great venue for an antique show.   It sounds like you got a good deal on your purchase. Depending on condition, the hand-held stereoscopes sell in the $75 to $125 range even without a set of cards.   Many years back, long before DVDs, Ipods and televisions, most households owned a collection of viewing cards and stereoscope. They were tremendously popular during the late 1800s and up until the 1920s. The original concept of the stereoscope goes back to 1838 and is attributed to Sir Charles Wheatstone of Gloucester England. He proved that the human mind could perceive objects in three dimensions, creating the illusion of depth when each eye receives a slightly different view. His first stereo cards were hand drawn because his invention preceded photography.   In 1859, Oliver Wendell Homes developed the hand-held style viewer that you have. A camera with two separate lenses took stereo pictures and both were mounted on a card separated by approximately the same distance that is between the average adult's eyes. The resulting images enabled viewers to travel the world, view history and even enjoy comical scenes in 3D in the comfort of their own parlours.   Eventually, other forms of entertainment, like radios and movie theaters, signaled the end of the stereoscope’s huge popularity. Lots of single viewing cards and card sets can still be purchased at reasonable prices if you care to add to the enjoyment of your stereoscope. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I have very fond Christmas memories of a toy bear that was Santa's helper back when I was a child. His name was "Punkinhead." I can't seem to find any history on him. My kids keep joking that Punkinhead is a figment of my imagination and my two granddaughters think I'm losing it. I would appreciate any information you could give me about this bear.   Susan McBain Toronto, Ontario Dear Susan: Charles Thorson, an animator for the T. Eaton Company, was the creator of "Punkinhead." This lovable bear first appeared in the Eaton's Santa Claus Parade back in 1947 and showed up every Christmas as Santa's helper.   Thorson also illustrated the first booklet, "Punkinhead The Sad Little Bear." It was a 16-page booklet distributed free to children at the 1948 Santa Parade and throughout Eaton's stores that Christmas. Thirteen more booklets followed in the next several years, along with a slew of Punkinhead-related products that Eaton's marketed successfully across Canada. There were Punkinhead watches, children's clothing, puppets, storybooks, colouring books, records and even a line of children's furniture decorated with Punkinhead's image. He even appeared in television commercials for Eaton's in the 1950s.   The actual toy bear, with its characteristic blonde tuft of hair, was manufactured in England by the Merrythought Toy Company exclusively for the T. Eaton Company. Punkinhead was produced in three sizes and soon became a favourite at Christmas time for kids across the country. To add to his fame, Canadian country singer Wilf Carter recorded a song about the well-known little bear.   Sadly, by 1960, poor Punkinhead was well into hibernation as far as Eaton's was concerned. He is still quite collectable in Canada, occasionally showing up at antique toy shows and on eBay. With a little bit of searching, you might be able to pick up a Punkinhead for your granddaughters as proof that he did exist.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy The Old Guy wishes all of the Wayback Times readers and advertisers a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season.   (Image used with permission of Sears Canada Inc.)   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My husband and I just purchased an antique kitchen cupboard from a dealer near Barrie. We both love it, and it looks great in our farmhouse kitchen. The metal plaque on the top of the cupboard says “Knechtel Kitchen Kabinet” but the dealer at the antique store referred to it as a “Hoosier Cupboard”. Was he incorrect by calling it that?   Pattie and Bill Harnum, Peterborough, ON   Dear Pattie, The cupboard you purchased was made by the Knechtel Furniture Company of Hanover, Ontario, probably in the early 1900s, and is commonly referred to as a “Hoosier Style” cupboard. The original Hoosier Manufacturing Co., based in New Castle, Indiana, was the largest manufacturer of these practical, all-in-one kitchen workstations. Thousands of these kitchen cupboards were produced for the ultra modern kitchens of the early 1900s and “Hoosier Cupboard” became the generic term used by most people. Other major manufacturers of these cupboards included McDougall, Kitchen Maid, Sellers and Napanee. By 1930, builders started designing houses with built-in cupboards or cabinetry and the glory days of the Hoosier came to an end. Most Hoosier cupboards or, as some people called them, ‘The Woman’s Workbench,” were four feet wide by six feet tall and comprised of three sections; the bottom, or base section, usually on casters, contained up to three drawers on one side and a large door on the other side, which opened to reveal ample space for pots, pans, and bowls.   The biggest drawer was often metal lined for storage of flour. The middle section contained a metal or porcelain counter, which could be pulled forward and used as a work surface. Under this shelf were two shallow drawers used for utensil storage. The top section was not as deep and had a roll up (or tambour) door, smaller double doors with shelves and metal racks to hold recipe cards or cookbooks. There was also a long door that hid the four sifter.   A whole new world of collecting can open up to people wishing to stock their Hoosiers with original accessories. Sugar bins, coffee and tea canisters, salt and pepper shakers, and Hoosier spice jars are just a few. Original sets of Hoosier glassware are very collectible.   In its day, the Hoosier cupboard was a modern time and work saving device. Today, they are much sought after by antique lovers and people restoring older homes. Reproduction hardware like hinges and drawer handles are widely available.   Enjoy your Hoosier and thanks for writing.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy I have recently started collecting carnival glass because I just love the look of it, but I don't know much about it. How old is it and do you know how they produce those beautiful colours? Should I worry about buying reproductions?   Bree Riley-Mitsu London, Ontario   Dear Bree, Carnival glass, commonly referred to as the "Poor man's Tiffany Glass," is probably the most collected type of glass in today's marketplace. The Fenton Art Glass Co. was one of the first manufacturers of carnival glass back in 1905. The name carnival glass is derived from the fact that thousands of pieces were given out as prizes at fairs and carnivals. It quickly became very collectable due to its beautiful appearance and reasonable cost. Many pieces, depending on their colour and patterns, can still be purchased for under $100, but the more rare and harder- to-find pieces can fetch thousands of dollars.   The process of making carnival glass involves applying metallic salts to the still- hot pressed glass as it cools. This results in the beautiful iridescent sheen that first attracted you as a collector. Fenton produced over 100 different patterns but other prominent manufacturers include Northwood, Westmoreland, Imperial, Millersburg, Dugan & Diamond and U.S. Glass. There are over 2,000 identified patterns in circulation.   Most manufacturers had ceased production by 1930, but new carnival glass has been reintroduced to the market for the past 25 years. It is usually quite easy to tell the difference between an original piece and a reproduction, but having said that, there are also some excellent reproductions that can fool even a seasoned collector. Fenton itself has reissued many patterns.   If you have access to a computer, there is an excellent web site by David Doty that enables you to look up pieces of carnival glass by pattern, shape, or manufacturer. The site is http://www.ddoty.com and it contains over 4,000 photos and 16,000 pages dedicated to carnival glass. It also includes information on fakes and reproductions as well as current values.   There are also many books available and several carnival glass collector clubs in Canada. The Canadian Carnival Glass Association is holding its 25th convention out your way in Brantford Ontario in September. They will have carnival glass for sale, a free ID clinic and an auction. The dates are September 18, 19, and 20. If you need more information on the convention or would like to become a member, you can contact Ginny at 905 686-1885 or Pauline at 519 752-3057. Books are an important resource for any collector. One book that comes highly recommended is The Standard Encyclopedia of Carnival Glass, 11th Edition by Mike Carwile. This new publication is discussed in the Wayback Times Book Review (this issue). It just might be the perfect way to start your library on carnival glass. Thanks for your question and enjoy your collection.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.         Dear Old Guy My husband's parents are in the process of downsizing and moving into a condo. They have given us their beautiful set of Blue Willow china that originally belonged to their parents. It has 12 complete place settings and in total, there are almost 100 pieces. I have always loved this set and would like to keep it in great condition so we can pass it on down to our daughter when the time comes. Since it is probably about 70 years old, does it require any special treatment when being cleaned and stored? My mother-in-law has always hand washed the set but I wondered if I could use the dishwasher. Also, could you explain the story behind the Blue Willow pattern?   Denise Cooper Markham ON   Dear Denise, The blue willow pattern, produced since 1780, is still being manufactured.Your set was made by the Buffalo Pottery Co. and could be at least 70 years old since they started making this version of the blue willow transfer ware pattern in 1905. As far as caring for this lovely set, just remember a few simple things:   - Do not use a dishwasher to clean any of these pieces. (Your mother-in-law had the right idea.) Although being fairly sturdily made, the dishwasher can cause crazed pieces to break off or lose portions of their glaze;   - Hand wash with a mild detergent and soft cloth. A fellow antique dealer suggests placing a large folded towel at the bottom of the sink when washing each piece to act as a cushion, should any items accidentally slip from your grasp;   - Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Moving a dish from the fridge into a sink of hot water can cause cracking or breakage;   - You can use a solution of baking soda and water to remove any coffee or tea stains. More stubborn stains may require soaking over night;   - Do not hide this set away in box. Store it in your china cabinet so it can be viewed and enjoyed by your family. To prevent scratches when stacking plates on top of each other, place a piece of cloth or tissue paper between each plate or go to a dollar store and purchase some cheap paper doilies and use them to separate the plates.   There are several versions of the Blue Willow legend to coincide with the different patterns. The most common and preferred version (obviously condensed) is as follows:   Once upon a time, hundreds of years ago, there was a rich old Mandarin who had an only daughter named Li-Chi. They lived in a large two-storey home, which was a rare thing in China in those days. The beautiful young daughter fell in love with her father's employee, Chiang. The father disapproved because he wanted her to marry a rich man and Chiang was very poor. The daughter was sent to live in the garden house by the willow tree so she would not be able to see Chiang again. Chiang, however, was not ready to give up and he sent a letter to Li-Chi asking her to run away with him. She agreed, but they had to cross the bridge to escape. Her father, the Mandarin, saw them escaping and he chased them. Just as the young lovers were about to be caught, the gods took pity on them and turned them into doves so they could fly away safely and live happily ever after. Pictured on the bridge in the Blue Willow pattern, you can see the three main figures. First is Li-Chi holding her distaff, followed by Chiang holding a jewel box, and chasing them is the father holding a whip. Other versions of this same legend involve jealousy, betrayal, revenge, arson and murder. In fact, you could make a TV mini series from the story behind the Blue Willow design.   Thanks for your question and enjoy your new-to-you old set of dishes. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, We recently picked up a copy of the Wayback Times at Southworks Antiques in Cambridge and were happy to find your column. For quite some time, we have wanted to get information on Buddy L Toys, as my father has a large Buddy L train engine that he remembers getting for Christmas some time in the 1940s. It is still in very good condition and has been greatly enjoyed by several generations. I know that you do not do individual appraisals in your column but could you please give me some information on this toy? Thank you.   Karen Parker-Smith London, ON   Dear Karen; Buddy L Toys have become very desirable with collectors and their prices have steadily increased over the years. The company was started in 1910 by Fred Lundahl and was originally operated as the Moline Pressed Steel Company, which manufactured steel parts for trucks and farm machinery. Fred eventually began making heavy gauge steel toys for his son Arthur (nicknamed Buddy). The sturdy toys were a hit with his son and the neighbourhood kids. Word spread and by 1921 Fred turned his company into a full time toy manufacturer which he named after his son.   The company built heavy gauge steel model toy trucks, cars, construction equipment, emergency vehicles, and, yes, trains. These were big, (20 to 26 inches in length) solidly built toys that were large enough for children to ride on and made to last. All had moving parts and some even had working hydraulics.   Buddy L became a trusted name and one of the most successful metal toy manufacturers in the world. The advent of World War II created a shortage of steel and the company started making wooden toys. After the war, they returned to producing steel toys but in a lighter gauge and smaller size.   They continued to manufacture quality toys until the company was sold to the Japanese in the 1970s. Today, Buddy L Toys are manufactured in China and are made almost entirely of plastic.   Toys manufactured before the 1960s are the most collectable, with the pre-war models commanding the highest prices. The heavier gauge Buddy L Toys made from the 1920s to the early 1940s, like your father's, can reach values into the thousands of dollars, depending on condition. There are several good price guides available in book stores, but you might be wise to have a look on eBay for a more recent valuation. (A quick look there recently showed there were 535 Buddy L items listed for sale.)   There are also several excellent toy and nostalgia shows that advertise regularly in the Wayback Times that would be well worth a visit just to check out their prices on Buddy L toys. Many of these shows feature appraisal clinics and if that’s not the case, most dealers at these shows are more than happy to share their knowledge with interested collectors.   Due to the quality that Buddy L was known for, that old toy train engine will probably be around for a very long time with the proper care.   Thanks again. The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy My husband will be reaching retirement age in three years and we are thinking of getting into the antiques business.We have both been avid collectors over the years and we absolutely love antiques. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Beth and Sandy Robertson, Hamilton, ON Dear Beth & Sandy, Loving antiques is probably the worst reason to get into the antiques business. You might end up sitting in a shop not wanting to sell your favorite pieces. The key is being able to get your customer to love what you are selling. That’s marketing.   Before jumping into the business with both feet, or all four feet in your case, here are a few things to consider. Renting and advertising, or purchasing a shop is expensive.You might want to start out by setting up shop in an antique mall.You will be required to pay a monthly rent and probably a percentage of your total sales to management, but it will be much less than funding your own shop and, just as important, leaves you free to search for more product.   This business is not like working for Wal-Mart, where you can just pick up the phone and order more size eight shoes when you sell out. You must cultivate and develop a relationship with different sources for finding antiques and this takes time.   Many established dealers rely on regular pickers to supply them with inventory, or they attend auctions and estate sales. These sources require an investment of both time and money and you should have sufficient knowledge to ensure you are purchasing well.   You might also consider selling your antiques at one of the many antique shows. Most advertisements for these shows will have a number you can call or an email address for information and many organizers are looking for new vendors. You will be charged a rental fee for your area and there is a lot of hard work involved in setting up and taking down your booth, but your product will be exposed to a large number of potential buyers over a short period of time.   Make sure you pricing is comparable to those of the other dealers. The first show I did many years ago was an eye opener for me. I had sold over a thousand dollars worth of stock before the show even opened. Obviously my prices were much too low and several knowledgeable dealers jumped at the chance to relieve me of my most saleable pieces. The internet is also a viable option for both selling and buying. eBay is one of the best known auction sites, or you could opt to create your own website and buy and sell from it.   There are many books and price guides available to help you in valuing your antiques. Visit as many shops as you can and learn from other dealers. Watch what they do and learn from their good habits as well as their bad. Many existing antique shops take the same approach to marketing year after year. If you want to stand out in this business then you have to come up with something new.   It is also important that you know your product. It can be an exciting journey into the world of antiques and you will meet a lot of interesting and knowledgeable people along the way.You will also meet a few real characters as well. Good luck to both of you and thanks for the letter. The Old Guy.   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: This summer at the Odessa Antique Show, I purchased an old photograph encased in glass in a small metal hinged frame that opens like a tiny book. The dealer that I bought it from told me it was a Daguerreotype, but my husband thinks it could be a tintype photograph. How can we tell the difference?   Jan & Walter Jamieson, Belleville, ON   Dear Jan and Walter, thanks for the question folks. Without seeing the photograph myself it is hard to tell for sure, but the fact that it is framed and under glass suggests that it probably is a daguerreotype. I will try and explain the differences and give you a bit of the history of photography so you can decide for yourselves. Up until 1839, when Louis Mande Daguerre introduced his picture taking process, anyone wishing for a picture of a loved one or favourite scene would have to pay for a portrait or landscape artist to paint one. Daguerreotypes were the earliest form of photographic images and although quite costly to purchase in their time, they were much less expensive than hiring an artist to paint. It's no wonder Daguerreotypes became so popular. It is estimated that in the first 20 years after their introduction, over 30 million were produced in North America alone.   Here are the differences between Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, and Tintype images:   Daguerreotypes; Produced from 1840 -1860 This image was made by light striking a polished silver plate and since silver will tarnish the pictures were encased behind glass and sealed from the air at the back with paper and tape. This process makes Daguerreotypes very reflective, like a mirror and most of the smaller ones were produced in hinged cases.   Ambrotypes; Produced from 1855-1865 Many Ambrotypes were also produced in hinged cases, but these pictures did not require a paper seal on the back. The image was printed right on the glass using a photographic emulsion. If you remove an Ambrotype from its case and hold it up to the light you can actually see through it.   Tin types These were introduced after 1855 and were also referred to as Ferrotypes. Instead of setting the image on glass, the picture was reproduced on a thin piece of black enameled or japanned tin. These images did not have to be encased to prevent tarnishing and most are found loose or in old photo albums or cardboard frames.   The value of Daguerreotypes depends on who or what's in the picture and also on the size. Full or whole plate size (6 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches) is the most valued, with smaller sizes commanding lower prices.   Ever wonder why nobody ever seems to smile in these old pictures? It's because the subjects had to sit still for up to 40 minutes in some cases for the picture taking process to be completed. My father always said they never smiled because they worked so hard back then they didn't have any energy left to smile.   Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy, I have a 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer Catalogue that I have had since new. I was wondering if it is worth anything. If not, I’ll just keep it because I enjoy looking at the old fashions and comparing the prices with today’s. Thank you,   Susan Cook Stratford   Dear Susan, The 1976 Eatons Spring and Summer catalogue you have was actually the last one produced by the T. Eaton Company. Despite this, it has very little monetary value due to the large number of catalogues circulated at the time. The value that it does retain, however, is in the nostalgia offered on each and every page.   The Eaton Company history started when Timothy Eaton, a hard working Irish immigrant, sold his interest in a small dry goods store in St. Marys, Ontario and opened the T. Eaton Company in Toronto in 1869 at 178 Yonge Street. In 1883, he moved the store to 190 Yonge Street. The new store boasted the first electric lights of any store in Canada and it also had the largest plate glass windows in Toronto. In 1886, Eaton installed the city’s first retail store elevator, but it only took customers up. They were required to take the flights of stairs down the three existing floors, thus being exposed to the displays of Eatons merchandise and advertising.   The Eatons catalogue started in 1884 and quickly became a valuable tool in rural Canada. It was commonly referred to as the “Homesteader’s Bible." Rural families could finally purchase the same products as city folks. By 1912, you could order a house from the catalogue for $895 and have it delivered to your property free of charge. Communities could also order school houses from Eatons.   A classic children’s story was written by Roch Carrier about a Quebec mother who had ordered a Montreal Canadiens hockey sweater from the Eatons catalogue for her son. When the package arrived her son was horrified to find that “Mr. Eaton” had substituted a Toronto Maple Leaf sweater instead. Eatons, at one time, had over 70,000 employees and was one of Canada’s largest employers.   The Eatons catalogue was published for 92 years until 1976. Six years later, the renowned Eatons Santa Claus Parade was cancelled and, sadly, in 1999 the Eatons empire turned its last page. One of my fondest childhood memories of Eatons was the frequent visits to the downtown Toronto store with my randmother (an Irish immigrant herself) and watching her touch the left toe of the bronze Timothy Eaton statue every time she entered the building. Shoppers and employees alike would rub Timothy’s left shoe for good luck, eventually leaving him with one very shiny toe. His statue now resides at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, where his toe likely still shines. Thanks for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy: I want to start a collection Fiesta dinnerware and I need your help.I love the bright colours and style of Fiesta ceramics, but I'm not sure how to tell the difference between the original Fiesta and the reproductions now available. When I go to auctions I'm afraid to bid without knowing how to tell the difference. Could you give me some information on this, please? Laura Maxwell Ajax, Ontario Dear Laura; Fiestaware is very popular with collectors today. The Homer Laughlin China Company originally started manufacturing this colourful dinnerware in 1936 and continued production until 1972. The reproduction Fiesta you refer to is still made by Homer Laughlin. They reintroduced the line in 1986. Back in 1936, the original Fiesta came in five colours; Red, Yellow, Light Green, Ivory and Cobalt Blue. Turquoise was added in 1937. In 1951, Rose, Chartreuse, Gray and Dark Green were introduced. Colours were dropped and reintroduced, but yellow was the only colour continuously manufactured for Fiesta’s 36 year run.   Other than identifying the age of a Fiesta piece by colour, you can also determine its age by examining the glaze. The newer Fiesta has a shinier finish and is smooth to the touch. If your piece is stamped on the back or bottom in lower case letters, it is old. If upper case letters (capitals) are used, it is new. The newer pieces are also slightly smaller due to the use of fully vitrified clay. Some of the newer pieces will be stamped "60th anniversary" or "lead free". These are obviously new.   At its peak, the Fiesta line was comprised of 64 different items, so don't limit your collection to just plates or cups and saucers. The art deco design and durable construction have made the Fiesta line very collectable. A word of caution; do not use the old Fiestaware to serve food or drinks. It contains lead which can leach into certain foods. The newer products are safe to use. Enjoy collecting Fiestaware.   The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; We are hoping you can answer a question for us. While cleaning out some old boxes in our basement yesterday, we came across a PEZ dispenser that I remember getting in my Christmas stocking back in the '60s. Are these considered a "collectible" now? Thanks Charles and Ashleigh Saylor Toronto Dear Charles and Ashleigh, I think Santa handed out a lot of PEZ dispensers over the years. I remember getting mine in the '50s and he's still handing them out today.   Yes, PEZ dispensers are quite collectible. Originally manufactured as a breath mint for smokers, the PEZ people made the right decision to change their focus and direct their marketing efforts toward kids.   These colourful candy dispensers featured comic and storybook characters’ heads that would spit out cubes of candy. How could any kid resist that?   PEZ dispensers made prior to 1987 did not have feet and command a higher price, but lately collectors are buying the newer footed dispensers to enhance and complete their collections.   If you are considering starting your own collection, remember to avoid damaged or broken PEZ characters and look for evidence of foot removal. Prices for the newer PEZ models start from $2 to $3 and can jump to several hundred dollars for the older (footless) ones. A rare Lions Club lion PEZ commands upward of $2,000 US. There are PEZ clubs, books on PEZ and even PEZ conventions. A web site full of information, found at www.PEZ.com, has been set up by the PEZ company where you will be able to find your recently rediscovered PEZ, along with hundreds of others.   On the PEZ web site, it states that over three billion PEZ candies are consumed annually in the USA alone. However, since yours is from the '60s, I would avoid eating the candy.   Thanks for your email. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My mother has a collection of Royal Doulton Toby Jugs that she sometimes refers to as "character" jugs. She started collecting them about 30 years ago and has been given several more by friends. Could you please give us some information on determining their age and value? We would also like some advice on adding to the collection for investment purposes. Cynthia Spencer London   Dear Cynthia, First, there is no guarantee you will make money with any collectible. Markets, trends and prices can change rapidly. The best advice is to buy what you like, just in case you end up owning it forever.   Having said that, specializing in discontinued Toby jugs can give you a step up on other collectors. Their value tend to increase due to lack of availability. Get to know reputable dealers who specialize in Royal Doulton and leave your wish list with them. A large number of the more desirable pieces never appear on the open market because they are sold to collectors who previously left orders with their dealers.   Also, try to contact other Doulton collectors or join a Royal Doulton collector club. These people can be a valuable asset when determining market changes and many will trade with you. When purchasing, always take your time, closely examining each item before buying. Watch for hairline cracks and look for colour variations that might indicate repairs or restorations.   Dating Royal Doulton character jugs is not a simple task without reference books, but here are a few hints that might help. In character jugs produced before the early 1960’s, the eyes have indented pupils. After that period, they were made with smooth rounded eyes.   Many of the pre-1960’s jugs have colouring on the lip inside the top of the jug. Each Royal Doulton jug has the famous crown and lion back stamp on its base. The early character jugs can be dated if there is a number to the right of the lion and crown symbol. This system of dating begins with a number 1 in 1928 and goes up to number 27 in 1954. The simple way to arrive at the production date is to add 1927 to the number. (For example: 12 would be 12 + 1927 = the year 1939.)   Various price and identification books are available. However, the one drawback in relying solely on price guides is obtaining current value. As I said before, markets change. Searching eBay’s current and recently sold items on your computer will give you a more realistic idea of your Toby’s value and what people will actually pay. Enjoy your collection and thank you for your question.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; My Uncle Norm gave me a large dresser (he calls it a bonnet chest) that he had sitting in his basement for years. I think it is mahogany or cherry wood. I love the look of it and it's in good condition but I am a little nervous about how to care for it. Do you have any suggestions? Jack Riley Toronto   Dear Jack, Relax! This piece has probably survived more than 100 years already. You don't have to be afraid of it because it's old. It will probably outlast most furniture made today if you follow a few simple guidelines.   Keep your bonnet chest out of direct sunlight. Ordinary exposure to light has given this piece its soft, mellow patina, but excessive sunlight can crack and damage veneers. Heat and dryness are also enemies of all wooden furniture, especially during our cold winters. A humidifier is always a good investment.   Do not over-polish your piece. Using a beeswax polish once or twice a year is sufficient. Over-polishing, or using too much polish can clog the pores of the wood and create a sticky surface. Never use silicon-based sprays. They create a shiny surface on the wood while drying the inside. If the chest does have a veneered surface, be careful when polishing or dusting not to break off raised fragments of veneer.   Most antique furniture was very well made and by following these hints yours will survive many more years.   By the way, the reason your uncle referred to this as a bonnet chest is because of the two upper drawers (sometimes there are three). These top drawers were designed to be deeper than the lower drawers so they could accommodate the fashionable hats or bonnets of the time.   Enjoy your bonnet chest.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I purchased a box of books at an auction last week and found several interesting old postcards inside the cover of one of them. Can you give me some information on postcard collecting? Thanks.   Ronald Flash Dear Ron; Believe it or not, postcards have overtaken stamps and coins as the most collected item in North America. It even has a fancy name - "deltiology."   Before you start your collection, you should probably narrow your search to one or two subjects that interest you.   Many collectors focus on postcards that show locations or towns they have visited or lived in. Others base their collections on subjects like aviation, trains or ships. There are humorous cards, advertising cards, even cards depicting disasters (Titanic postcards are highly prized). The list is endless.   The Golden Age of postcards is from 1900 to the 1920's. The condition of old postcards is crucial to their value. Dog-eared or damaged postcards should be avoided. Look for cards in the best possible condition, or mint condition, if you can find them.To protect your postcards, keep them in a dry location out of sunlight in photo albums or boxes.   Most postcards are still quite affordable for the average collector, with prices usually ranging from $3 to $10. However, rare cards can top the $1,000.00 mark. One of the great things about collecting them is they are very accessible, easily stored and require very little dusting. They can range from incredible works of art to tacky souvenir items.   You can add to your collection by visiting antique shops and markets and many antique shows feature dealers who have a great selection of cards. There are some dealers who specialize in them. The Internet is also a good place to find them, as are postcard conventions. Good luck with your collection. The Old Guy You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.     Dear Old Guy; I need your help. Please tell me what the difference is between Art Nouveau and Art Deco. I recently watched a decorating show on television featuring both styles that was very interesting but it left me more confused than ever. So, what's the difference? Marion Murton Scarborough, Ontario   Dear Marion; The easiest way to learn about these two styles is to visit an antique store that specializes in them. This will enable you to pick up, hold and examine different pieces.   Dealers are more than willing to share their knowledge with interested collectors, but before you do this I will give you a bit of background information.   The Art Nouveau period predates Art Deco by approximately 25 years. It was started in France about 1895 and was considered by many to be an artistic rebellion of sorts against the staid, uptight and more formal styling of the Victorian period. This “new art” style (new for 1895) featured flowing lines, floral designs and the beauty of the feminine form. It was evident in ceramics, pottery, jewellery, art glass, lighting and even furniture and some architecture during this period. Artists referred to this as a curvilinear style, but if you think of a flowery Tiffany vase with flowing, gracious curves, you'll get the picture.   The Art Deco period also originated in France, showcasing at the Paris International Exhibition in 1925. Its popularity quickly spread across Europe and into North America.   Art Deco style really was a reflection of the times. Nicknamed the “Roaring Twenties”, it was a time of liberation, aerodynamic shapes, chromes cocktail shakers, jazz music and towering skyscrapers. With the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1923 came a fascination with Egyptian artifacts. These were also reflected in the art deco style.   Zig-zag lines and sharply angled abstract forms appeared in bakelite bracelets, jewellery, glass forms, sculptures and bronzes.   Sleek, elongated chrome hood ornaments became popular on cars of the time and even some train stations were built in the art deco style.   Of the two styles, my taste leans towards Art Deco because of its clean and simple lines, but both styles are very popular with collectors. Visit an antique shop or show, and enjoy your search. Above all, ask questions. Dealers don’t mind.   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.   Dear Old Guy; At the last few antique shows I have attended, I noticed several dealers selling old fishing lures.Can you give me some advice about buying fishing related collectibles? Some are quite appealing, but I don’t know where to start. Ashleigh Brown Toronto   Dear Ashleigh, Over the past several years, interest in early fishing related items has increased tremendously, along with their prices. Some collectors specialize in wooden lures and/or rods or reels made by just one manufacturer, or many attempt to acquire every colour a specific lure was produced in.   Canadian manufacturers like Hex, Lucky Strike, and Williams’, just to mention a few, are also attracting great interest. Finding old tackle is still possible. It is hiding in garages, cottages, old boat houses, at antiques shows and shops; or can be found at live or on-line auctions if you have computer access. The value of individual baits is determined by age, rarity , colour and, like other collectibles, condition. Determining their value requires patience and research. Fortunately, many books are available to help with identification and pricing.   Two books I have used extensively are “Old Fishing Lures and Tackle,” by Carl F. Luckey, and “Fishing Lure Collectibles,” by Dudley Murphy and Rick Edmisten. On-line auctions, like eBay, are excellent for research and I would also recommend visiting the Canadian Antique Fishing Tackle Association’s website at www.cafta.ca which has various links to other sites with valuable information. Many of these people are more than happy to discuss collecting tackle and offer advice and even purchase items you may have. Most importantly - buy what you like! We call it “Retail Therapy.”   The Old Guy   You can reach the Old Guy by mail: The Wayback Times, RR1 Hastings, Ontario, K0L 1Y0 or email asktheoldguy@waybacktimes.com and we will pass the message on to him. The Old Guy does not find, buy or sell items on behalf of Wayback Times readers.    Return to top of page   This Is Livin' Publishing © 2010 581 8th Line West, RR1 Hastings, ON, K0L 1Y0 Phone/Fax: 705-696-1833   webmaster