A remarkable piece of Perth’s civic heritage, the original carved wooden crest that once graced the entrance of the city’s historic fire station, is set to captivate bidders at an upcoming auction. This imposing emblem, approximately five feet in height, vividly displays Perth’s distinguished coat of arms, featuring a majestic double-headed eagle alongside the Latin motto ‘Pro Rege Lege et Grege’ – ‘for the king, the law, and the people’.
For generations, this crest stood proudly above the main door of the old fire station on King Edward Street, a site now recognized as the location of the former Debenhams store. Its presence served as a powerful symbol of public service and civic pride within the heart of Perth.
Auction experts anticipate significant interest in this unique artifact, estimating its value to range between £800 and £1,200. Its rarity and direct link to Perth’s architectural and municipal past make it an exceptionally appealing acquisition for collectors of local history or those seeking a truly distinctive decorative piece for their home or establishment. Beyond Perth: A Tayside Artistic Gem
The upcoming sale extends its reach beyond Perth’s immediate history, also showcasing a compelling piece by the celebrated Dundee artist James McIntosh Patrick. Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to bid on a signed watercolour that beautifully captures Magdalen Green and the iconic Tay Bridge, as viewed from the artist’s very own studio window.
This particular painting holds a special provenance, having been a cherished possession in its late owner’s Fife home since its creation. Like the Perth crest, this evocative Tayside landscape carries an estimated value of between £800 and £1,200, representing a chance to own a significant work by a locally revered painter. An Iconic Timepiece with Cinematic Allure
For those with a penchant for cinematic history and exquisite horology, the auction presents an exceptionally rare 1958 vintage diving watch. This particular model gained legendary status as the original timepiece famously worn by the fictional secret agent James Bond in several early film adaptations, including ‘Dr. No’, ‘Russia With Love’, ‘Goldfinger’, and ‘Thunderball’.
Adding to its undeniable appeal and authenticity, the watch is accompanied by its original sales receipt from 1958, which remarkably notes its initial purchase price of just £66. This historical document not only verifies its lineage but also highlights the extraordinary appreciation in value for such a collector’s item. Pre-sale interest in this iconic watch is notably high, with auctioneers placing its estimated value between £8,000 and £12,000, reflecting its status as a true treasure for serious collectors. Gold Standard Investment and Diverse Offerings
In addition to these standout items, the sale caters to investors looking for tangible assets in today’s dynamic market. A 1974 gold Krugerrand coin is among the lots expected to attract strong bidding. With gold prices currently at an all-time high, this coin is poised to fetch upwards of £2,000, underscoring its appeal as a robust investment.
The extensive auction will feature nearly 900 lots in total, encompassing a wide array of antiques, fine art, and interior pieces. This diverse collection promises something for every taste and budget, from historical artifacts to contemporary decorative items.
Prospective buyers are invited to view the entire catalogue online, or visit the auction rooms on King Street in Perth for in-person viewing on Monday and Tuesday of next week, between 9am and 5pm. The main sale itself is scheduled to take place on Wednesday and Thursday, with bidding opportunities available both in person and through online platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience of collectors and enthusiasts across Perth and Kinross and beyond.
For generations, this crest stood proudly above the main door of the old fire station on King Edward Street, a site now recognized as the location of the former Debenhams store. Its presence served as a powerful symbol of public service and civic pride within the heart of Perth.
Auction experts anticipate significant interest in this unique artifact, estimating its value to range between £800 and £1,200. Its rarity and direct link to Perth’s architectural and municipal past make it an exceptionally appealing acquisition for collectors of local history or those seeking a truly distinctive decorative piece for their home or establishment. Beyond Perth: A Tayside Artistic Gem
The upcoming sale extends its reach beyond Perth’s immediate history, also showcasing a compelling piece by the celebrated Dundee artist James McIntosh Patrick. Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to bid on a signed watercolour that beautifully captures Magdalen Green and the iconic Tay Bridge, as viewed from the artist’s very own studio window.
This particular painting holds a special provenance, having been a cherished possession in its late owner’s Fife home since its creation. Like the Perth crest, this evocative Tayside landscape carries an estimated value of between £800 and £1,200, representing a chance to own a significant work by a locally revered painter. An Iconic Timepiece with Cinematic Allure
For those with a penchant for cinematic history and exquisite horology, the auction presents an exceptionally rare 1958 vintage diving watch. This particular model gained legendary status as the original timepiece famously worn by the fictional secret agent James Bond in several early film adaptations, including ‘Dr. No’, ‘Russia With Love’, ‘Goldfinger’, and ‘Thunderball’.
Adding to its undeniable appeal and authenticity, the watch is accompanied by its original sales receipt from 1958, which remarkably notes its initial purchase price of just £66. This historical document not only verifies its lineage but also highlights the extraordinary appreciation in value for such a collector’s item. Pre-sale interest in this iconic watch is notably high, with auctioneers placing its estimated value between £8,000 and £12,000, reflecting its status as a true treasure for serious collectors. Gold Standard Investment and Diverse Offerings
In addition to these standout items, the sale caters to investors looking for tangible assets in today’s dynamic market. A 1974 gold Krugerrand coin is among the lots expected to attract strong bidding. With gold prices currently at an all-time high, this coin is poised to fetch upwards of £2,000, underscoring its appeal as a robust investment.
The extensive auction will feature nearly 900 lots in total, encompassing a wide array of antiques, fine art, and interior pieces. This diverse collection promises something for every taste and budget, from historical artifacts to contemporary decorative items.
Prospective buyers are invited to view the entire catalogue online, or visit the auction rooms on King Street in Perth for in-person viewing on Monday and Tuesday of next week, between 9am and 5pm. The main sale itself is scheduled to take place on Wednesday and Thursday, with bidding opportunities available both in person and through online platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience of collectors and enthusiasts across Perth and Kinross and beyond.