Buying antiques takes time in spotting fakes

JAKARTA (JP): No fail-safe rules prevail on how to buy antiques and, more importantly, how to spot a fake. Even the most seasoned dealers have fallen victim to paying high prices for top-notch reproductions and knockoffs.

Rule of thumb is buyer beware. Antique collectors and dealers have recommendations for helping buyers guard against being conned.

1. Better shop around

Never buy antiques on impulse. Look around, visit several shops and ask their prices.

"Many people become so blinded by their obsession to buy," says long-time collector Widyarto. "They will be disappointed later when they learn that they have bought a reproduction."

Take your time and always be on the alert.

Antique finds are often made when you least expect them.

"The real antiques usually come to you," says Nasrun, a veteran dealer and owner of a shop on Jl. Ciputat Raya.

2. Knock on wood

Dry wood is best for antique furniture. Good quality dry wood has a dark brown, smooth surface without spots. Inferior will have specks on the surface. The more spots and rougher the surface, the poorer the wood.

Look at the cuts. Real antiques usually have rough cuts because chain saws are a modern invention.

3. All shops are not created equal

If you want to buy a reproduction, don't go to a gallery; if you want to buy a limited edition of antiques, don't enter the mass-production shops.

4. China blues

Old ceramics are usually deeper and darker in color.

5. Sound proof

To test the quality of a ceramic, flick it with your fingers and listen hard. A fine ceramic will produce a low, deep sound. A high tone indicates the firing process was imperfect.

6. Experience counts

After a while, you will become quite an expert, and will be able to gauge the quality by sight and touch. (07)