star Charles Hanson was left ecstatic when they gambled big at auction and it paid off.
In an old episode of the show, where experts James Braxton and Charles Hanson scoured the scenic coastlines of Dorset and Devon for hidden gems, Charles found himself in a Honiton antique shop, renewing acquaintances with the owner.
Time pressed on as Charles needed to accelerate his purchasing pace with just two items under his belt. Engaging with the shopkeeper, he expressed: “I would like to buy a really iconic piece of furniture which has a look about it.”
The shopkeeper then guided Charles, introducing him to an item that piqued intrigue. He presented a Liberty & .co stool, commenting: “It’s an Anglo-Moorish range that they did from about 1880.
Charles was left wondering if he had made the right decision (Image: BBC)
“It’s got really tightly turned mashrabiya panels, which have all been separately hand-turned. The decoration on top is very unusual.”
Charles didn’t overlook the subpar state of the upholstery, which had minor tears. As the shop owner proposed a £650 price tag, Charles countered.
He suggested: “I would probably part with my entire budget, that’s £468.88. Ah you’re a piece of work, you’ve got me going!”
Upon a closer examination outside, the owner conceded to Charles’ offer, stripping him of his remaining funds, reports
Charles decided to spend all his remaining budget on one item (Image: BBC)
Directing a hopeful gaze towards the lens, the elated personality added: “Monday going, money up in smoke. Let’s hope that stool turns a wee profit in Torquay. Result: sold!”
Shaking the owner’s hand to secure the deal, it seemed as though Charles was unsure over his splurge. As he sealed the deal with a handshake, there was a flicker of buyer’s remorse when he jested: “What have I done?!”
Yet the seller remained confident that it was a shrewd investment. When the pivotal auction moment arrived for the stool, the narrator highlighted the audacious risk given Charles had blown the rest of his budget on one item.
Initial bids modestly began at £80 and crept upwards at a gradual pace until momentum noticeably picked up. The thrill of success gripped Charles as bids soared past £500, prompting him to clench his fist in victorious delight.
Antique Road Trip expert left ‘over the moon’ as huge profit made from ‘brave’ purchase (Image: undefined)
Stunned by the ever-rising price, it became apparent the stool was a hot item, especially with two phone bidders fiercely competing. James’ voice could be overheard exclaiming: “Well done mate.”
Ultimately, the gavel came down on an astonishing £1,050, to which an ecstatic Charles exclaimed: “I’m over the moon!”
He rejoiced quietly as James congratulated him warmly on the outstanding win. Amidst the rapturous applause blanketing the room, Charles jubilantly clasped James’ hand, triumphant.
The voiceover concluded: “Well done Charles, a very brave purchase, giving you a thoroughly deserved profit. You are today’s winner, by a mile.”
Antiques Road Trip is available to watch on iPlayer.