Written by Clem | January 2024
The passion to explore, to discover, to ignite curiosity – these are all forces that drive collectors. Whether seeking objects of lasting value, distinct historical import, or just a touch of magic, collectors buy not merely to own something, but to connect to the past, to themselves, and to one another. How to make choices that reflect an awareness of the world we live in, while also bringing us light, comfort and joy?
This guide is designed to offer concrete tips on what to buy in 2024, based on our expert’s knowledge across a range of categories. Want to discover every trend? Read the full report, written by Nina Siegal, here.
Overlooked, underestimated
Overlooked, underestimated items, Buyer Guide
The online auction market is growing, and it is driven by digital-savvy millennials with greater purchasing power. In a busy marketplace that’s only going to get busier, it takes a canny collector to sense the quiet amidst the noise. Lesser-known products from established brand names are usually a smart bet. Experts have identified a number of items that are relatively undervalued at the moment, but will likely gain value in coming years.
Women creators are finally getting their due in 2024, from Eileen Gray and her modern design, to Sonia Delaunay’s prints. To drink, try an armagnac or natural wine from the Jura Massif. In automobiles, a Porsche Boxster S is an alternative to the classic 911 and finally, top it all off with elegant silverware from Ercuis.
All things Olympian
All things Olympian, Buyer Guide
The worldwide market for sports memorabilia was estimated at $33 billion in 2022, according to the most recent Market Decipher Report on the sector, and is anticipated to keep growing. Sports memorabilia is one of the fastest growing categories on Catawiki, with nearly 60% growth in overall sales in the past year – further boosted by the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics. Experts also point to a rising interest in the Greek origins of the Games, with emblematic items such as coins, sculpture and various classical design objects.
Sports memorabilia from the greats like Maradona or Michael Jordan will always be popular, but look out for rookies such as the NBA’s Victor Wembanyama and F1’s Liam Lawson. For more Olympics fever, turn to coins new and old – from special commemorative mints to ancient Greek money. Finally, keep time with a vintage OMEGA watch, the games’ official timekeeper since 1932.
Understated, quality fashion
Understated, quality fashion, Buyer Guide
The age of bling is over, conspicuous brand logos are out and quiet luxury will dominate fashion well into 2024. “In the current economy, it’s not cool to be walking around with logos from head to toe,” says Fashion Expert Lorenzo Altimani. For those looking to invest in fashion, the emphasis should be on durability and quality materials such as silk, cashmere and wool.
When it comes to fashion, forget the logos and look for Bottega Veneta or Gucci bags that focus on craftsmanship. Brands such as Max Mara, Jitrois, Tod’s and Loro Piana are ones to invest in, while watches get smaller and more understated.
Big art, bold statements
Big art, bold statements, Buyer Guide
When conspicuous displays of wealth are frowned upon, where does luxury find its place? In 2024, our experts predict XXL art will take over interior and home design. Statement art evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Plus, it fulfils a social function by generating lively discussion in private gatherings. With social circles becoming more tightly curated, the power of the right conversations in the right spaces can’t be underestimated.
Art should suit your taste, but large pieces that could make worthwhile investments include African display masks, Sandra Keja Planken tapestries or XL pieces from living artists such as Vladinsky. Going 3D, think of fibreglass sculptures and Porsche showroom signs.
Anti-AI, human tech
Anti-AI, human tech, Buyer Guide
If tech pundits are to be believed, artificial intelligence will remake the world. But as with all new technological advances, there often comes a simultaneous retrenchment – in this case, a movement to retain and revive technologies with a definite human touch. Our experts predict buyers will be drawn to that irreplaceable human factor, particularly in methods of producing art, music, cameras and even classic cars.
Make beautiful music with a 1970s Fender Rhodes keyboard or Selmer saxophone. Alternatively, create images with a Leica M6 or Sony DSC-T7 camera. If you want to get outside for your hobby, a Mercedes 190E 2.5 16v Evolution II or Yamaha RD500LC will give you a thrill.
Solid gold
Solid gold, buyer Guide
From timeless gold jewellery to coins and nuggets, down to splashes of gold in shoes and clothes, the experts are clear: in 2024, all that glitters is gold. The reason is simple: gold is perceived as solid, safe, and grounded. A world in flux might endanger other kinds of investments, but gold’s intrinsic value can’t be tarnished. Gold, the thinking goes, is always worth something.
Investing in gold bullion or natural nuggets will always be stable. But if you want more of a fashion statement, put your money on the King Midas Rolex watch, or Marco Bicego Lunaria necklace.
Pop icons remixed
Pop icons remixed, Buyer Guide
Roy Lichtenstein elevated the comic strip to high art when he created his own special style of large-scale comic parodies in the 1960s. Today, comic book characters are pop culture icons: their aesthetics figure in many design elements of modern homes, while street artists like Banksy brought them into the urban landscape with his own brand of playful rebellion. “People are looking for light in their lives… joy, a source of optimism,” says Modern Art Expert Anthony Chrisp.
Art from Shepard Fairey, Mr. Brainwash and Dillon Boy will continue to be desirable in 2024. In popular culture, comics including Frank Miller ‘Daredevil’ editions and Asterix are gaining momentum – as are vintage 007 collectables.
The themes and items selected for this report were chosen based on careful consideration and are meant to represent a small fraction of what’s available on Catawiki. This article is an edited and condensed version of a full report, written by Nina Siegal. Read the full report here.