Vintage enamel signs have surged in popularity, with their vibrant colours and iconic designs luring in aficionados and casual buyers alike.
But whether you’re in the market for a collectible investment or simply looking for some timeless household décor, there are a few things to consider before you dive in.
What are you looking for?
Are you a collector, an investor, or just someone captivated by the glossy charms of enamel signs? Knowing your purpose will inform your journey.
If you’re a casual buyer looking for some home or workplace décor, you have nothing to worry about. You can hunt online or in person among the countless signs of all shapes, styles and sizes available at your leisure. If a particularly pricey sign catches your eye, you can simply find a replica or reproduction for a fraction of the cost.
For aspiring collectors or investors, the journey becomes more nuanced. Authenticity reigns supreme in the realm of collectibles, and enamel signs are no exception.
The real value lies in genuine, untouched signs in good condition, and they are not so easy to find. Like any marketplace for collectible objects, the market for vintage enamel signs is awash in fakes, reproductions and restorations, and safely navigating your way through the maze demands a discerning eye and no small amount of research.
A good rule of thumb is that if an offer looks too good to be true – it usually is.
Where can you find collectible enamel signs?
These retro treasures pop up anywhere you find antiques, whether online or offline.
Online marketplaces are the most convenient option, but they are rife with counterfeits. Of course, that’s no real concern if you’re just shopping for any old sign you find appealing, but it can be a costly risk for collectors.
For expensive purchases, stick to reputable and trusted sellers to safeguard your investment. They’ll generally provide guarantees of authenticity and a record of the sign’s provenance.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, venture into antique shows, flea markets, auctions and garage or yard sales.
The thrill of stumbling upon a hidden gem amid the hustle and bustle adds an extra layer of excitement. You never know, you could find the perfect decoration for your man cave or the bargain of the century. Plus, you get to enjoy a lovely day out.
Of course, there’s still the risk of fakes and scams face-to-face too, so don’t be afraid to just walk away if you’re even slightly suspicious. Checking if a sign is real is easier when you’re there in front of it, but it’s definitely an acquired skill that comes with experience.
For the truly dedicated, scouring old buildings, businesses or even junkyards may yield unexpected finds. People are often sitting on a variety of cool memorabilia they’re willing to sell, happy to see it go to a good home. One person’s trash is another person’s treasure, after all.
Displaying your signs
Displaying your collection is one of the highlights of collecting, and it pays to put a little thought into it.
Be sure to check the dimensions of your purchases – discovering that your new sign won’t fit on your wall can really ruin your day. Try to consider the colours of your signs and display areas too. It’s easy to overpower your décor with a clashing colour scheme.
Enthusiasts for authenticity may opt to showcase their signs as they were in their prime, adding a charming layer of historical context to their collection.
For some, this can mean finding a space to properly hang a storefront sign or setting up a standing frame for a sandwich board-style sign. For others, it can mean placing their signs in thematically appropriate areas – food and beverages in the kitchen and automobilia in the garage.
Ultimately, you should display your enamel signs however you like – they’ll bring a touch of retro charm to any room.