DO YOU REMEMBER the car you drove in high school? Today, those memories mean big money with classic-car collectors. While the classic-car market remains strong, market-watchers are forming opinions about some other vintage marvels.

In the world of art, antiques and classic cars, some say it is time to let go of the fabulous 1950s. Expert market-watchers realize that now is the best time in a long time to sell off those 1950s-era objects to reap a strong return on investment. As we welcome 2007, we will see a decline in the collecting of all things flashy ’50s as it is time to trade in the tailfins.

1950s art smart

Recently, we have seen a spike in 1950s period art with abstract expressionist works commanding high prices. For instance, Pollock’s painting No. 5, 1948 sold in a private sale for $140 million, Willem de Kooning’s famed Woman III sold for $137.5 million, and David Smith’s monumental steel sculpture Cubi XXVIII brought $23.8 million.

The recent rise in the abstract-expressionist art market was complemented by stunning sales for mid-century modern, particularly 1950s period furnishings and collectibles. For the vintage interior designer in all of us, the 1950s-era flashback items sold well during the past few years, with a George Nelson/Herman Miller rosewood jewelry chest commanding $12,000, a set of Brno chairs by Mies van der Rohe for Knoll bringing nearly $8,000, and a 1950s-era pitcher and tumblers set in rainbow-colored spun glass commanding $125.

Sheer ’60s

Shortly, we’ll all experience the introduction of 1960s pop pieces coming to the forefront of the art, antiques and collectibles market. On the horizon for collectors will be design elements of the 1960s, using bright, primary colors and repetitive patterns. Also, the 1960s revival will usher in a renewed interest in exotic accessories as many collectors seek out Asian ceramics, Egyptian textiles and African totemic sculptures.

Market analysts use various factors to determine what’s hot and not. It isn’t just anyone’s guess. There is a method to the madness and to the market as experts take much into consideration when identifying the next popular market trend.

As you think about trading in the 1950s tailfins, consider starting a Warhol-wonderful collection of pop art or exotic antiques like those that made the 1960s supreme.

source : www.timesleader.com