A young rebel named Antoni Norbert Patek de Prawdzic fled war-torn Poland in 1832 and embarked upon a career path that led him to watchmaker Jean-Adrien Philippe, inventor of the revolutionary built-in crown winding mechanism. In the 160 years since the pair founded Patek Philippe, the line has remained, without a doubt, one of the most traditional and noble watch manufacturers in the world. This illustrated book couples the most exclusive and beautiful timepieces the Genevan brand has ever manufactured with informative history and alluring photographs. Featured inside are several of the most popular examples from three of the company's outstanding watch families: the uncomplicated but cherished Calatrava collection, the groundbreaking sports line Nautilus, and the cross-generational Gondolo family. Each watch is accompanied by a complete list of technical specifications. This book is an essential acquisition for both casual fans and long-time connoisseurs of the brand.

This engaging book details the wide variety of model kits produced by Revell, Inc. of Venice, California, from the 1950s through the 1970s. Over 545 color photographs display many of the much sought after kits, ranging from automobiles and ships to aircraft and spaceships. Also included are a fascinating history of the company and the men and women who drove its success, a detailed recounting of the wide ranging, exquisitely detailed models produced, discussions of the artists who brought the box art to life, a bibliography, and a model kit index providing listings of the models produced, their variations, and their value in the secondary market. Newly updated values are found in both captions and the index. Anyone collecting or building models will be fascinated with this book.

The campaign and commemorative medals of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps frame an interesting evolution in our country's military development and willingness to use this power on a worldwide basis. It traces their roots from our own Civil War to assuming the stature of the world's super power. This work provides an in depth overview of not only the history and development of each campaign medal, but also the historical significance of the events surrounding the establishment of each medal. Informative and insightful glimpses of some of the main characters in this history, like Dewey, Sampson. DeLong, Butler, Hanneken, Peary and Byrd are threaded through this work. The book traces the events and their corresponding medals through our current involvement in the Bosnia peacekeeping mission. The book also covers, in great detail, several of the more important commemorative medals which were often struck on a limited basis to account for the lack of appropriate official federal awards. In many cases, these commemorative medals reflect exacting craftsmanship and unusual design features when compared to the campaign medals. All medals are exquisitely photographed in color with the exception of a few of the rare commemorative medals, which are reproduced in black and white. The work also covers a number of interesting foreign awards which have accompanied the award of a number of U.S. campaign medals. This work, which is well organized and easy to read, proves to be an interesting and informative reference work for the collector of these Navy and Marine Corps medals. A value guide is included. Ed Emering is also the author of Orders, Decorations and Badges of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (available from Schiffer Publishing Ltd.).

Forty colorful postcards detail the architectural Art Deco splendor of Miami Beach. Keep it as a souvenir book, detach and mail them, or show them off in any standard 5" x 7" frame. At $14.95, it's the best deal on the Beach.

Since the late 1400s, tea drinkers in the Orient and the West have been passionate about teapots in ever growing numbers. Over 445 beautiful color images display a wide range of international teapots, from antique to contemporary. Porcelain, stoneware, silver, copper, brass, iron, pewter, tin, wood, and glass are shown from around the world. Children's tea sets, miniatures, musical, figural, whimsical, seasonal, advertising, commemorative, and souvenir teapots are all included. A brief history of tea is provided along with values. Join the collectors who look for teapots in exotic places and enjoy their use with every cup consumed.

Here's a sweet treat for collectors of colorful M&M's characters, starring regular and peanut. This is a serious collector's guide to those smiling candies with a tough exterior and a gooey heart, and now has even more wonderful examples. Author Patsy Clevenger, who describes the smiles of the M&M characters as "absolutely infectious," first provides readers with a concise review of the candy's history, including a timeline of M&M colors featured from 1940 through the 1990s. This comprehensive and enjoyable guide then leads the reader on a tasty tour of the M&M collectibles, complete with values for the hundreds of items shown, which range from kitchen towels to tins, toppers, posters, and jewelry. Additional sections on advertising items and M&M packaging round out the book.

Here, at last, is a long-awaited volume for collectors of miniature vehicles. After a span of several years, noted authority Edward Force turns his eye toward the vehicles produced in northern Europe from the early to mid-20th century. From Scandinavia the toys include the classic Tekno brand, as well as Vilmer and several smaller brands such as Bapro and Lemeco. Also included are a series of plastic models once offered by Lego. From Belgium, there are vehicles from the Gusquy-Septoy firm and the short-lived Sablon brand. Holland is represented by Lion Toys and the Best Box-Efsi-Oto-Holland line. Finally, the book contains the German Siku line. In all, hundreds of examples are shown in full color, plus the encyclopedic gathering of information that collectors have come to expect from Dr. Force. Values are provided for each model shown. This new volume will satisfy the pent-up demand for a new volume on miniature vehicles and will be a welcome addition to the collector's library.

With this valuable book, novices and connoisseurs alike will be able to correctly identify the most distinctive styles and purchase contemporary Oriental rugs in traditional designs of the highest quality. Over 270 beautiful color photos, including many close-up shots, display these fascinating carpets to their best advantage. The authoritative text provides valuable information on unusual rugs, rug pedigree and discernible workshop style, knot count, dyes, the Lotus design, and specific rug weaving areas--including India, Pakistan, Persia, Turkey, Nepal, Tibet, China, Egypt, and Romania. The text also provides essential rug-buying tips and recommendations for rug care. Values are provided in the captions. This book is a must not only for prospective rug buyers, but also for everyone who admires the intricacy and beauty of Oriental rugs!

This stunning new book showcases fantastic costume jewelry from 53 top designers of the 20th century. Examples from Christian Dior, Miriam Haskell, Kenneth Jay Lane, Elsa Schiaparelli, Stanley Hagler, Trifari, Vendome, and may others are shown in profusion. 360 luscious color photographs display exquisite examples of each designers' best work. Masterpieces abound, including many rare examples. The authors illustrate ways to enjoy these pieces today, with candid photography of friends adorned for casual occasions. Delightful stories are shared of memories associated with their passion for jewelry over the years. This remarkable exhibition displays costume jewelry as absolutely beautiful works of art. Sit back with this eye candy, relax with the fairytale spirit it projects, and enjoy the romance. Let the passion roll!

Non-wrinkling, silk jersey clothing, with bold and colorful prints signed by the most distinguished fashion designers of the day, became popular in the 1960s, especially for glamorous people who traveled worldwide. It was dynamic clothing photographed by the celebrity press that became coveted by the general public. This book is the first serious record of those textiles that swept the fashion world and inspired copycat items for ready-to wear customers. Over 350 gorgeous color photographs display party and casual styles of "signature prints" that remain classic today. Italy's Emilio Pucci started the rage, and he was quickly followed by fashion designers Mr. Dino, Paganne, Eduardo, and more. See hundreds of signature prints from 18 clothing designers as well as many unknowns. These pages drip with color and high-fashion style, including period shoes, jewelry, handbags, and other accessories that relate the author's keen knowledge of the style and period. The book is nostalgic and inspiring. These originals bring high prices today and contemporary signature prints are again important fashion statements.

This book showcases a wide variety of Nativity sets that display multi-cultural artistic interpretations of the true meaning of Christmas. Artisans from more than forty countries on five continents are represented, each with beautiful expressions of the greatest story ever told, often with photographs from the country of origin to accompany the artwork. Whether sculpted in clay, carved from wood, painted, woven, or cast, these Cre*ches from around the world are sure to enhance holiday celebrations and illustrate the universality of the Christmas message.

A magnificent tour of canes and staffs from the late seventeenth through the twentieth century in both folk art and formal designs. Color photographs provide a sweeping survey of the varying cane forms available to collectors today, including canes with handles bearing human and animal forms, scrimshaw and glass canes, gadget and weapons canes, political, and presentation canes. There is something to peak anyone's interest among these beautiful and engaging sticks. Even historic events and relics amy be found among the canes pictured here. Both rare and common canes are presented in an impressive visual format. Cane terminology, dating techniques, and formal cane etiquette are among the topics discussed in this collector's handbook. Photographs are arranged in broad categories to provide a sense of the scope of human imagination rendered in these magnificent sticks.

Exquisite marbles produced by more than 130 artists and craftsmen are represented in over 600 stunning color photographs. The thorough text includes an extensive and detailed look at the pioneers, current artists, and craftsmen of the contemporary handmade marble movement. The history and development of handmade marbles is reviewed in words and illustrations, beginning with the earliest use of decorative glass and moving forward to the influence studio glass founders brought to bear on the pioneers and current craftsmen of contemporary handmade marbles. Also included are tips for the purchase and care of fine marbles, an in-depth glossary, and a valuation guide. This book will be a joy for everyone fascinated with glass. Novice and experienced art glass and marble collectors alike will appreciate this beautiful book.

Since the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896, the Olympics have grown to be among the most anticipated and watched events of any type in world. Today, almost 200 nations send athletes to participate in the Games and over a billion people watch on television. Just as the Olympics have grown, so has the collecting of Olympic memorabilia. Quite possibly the most international and fastest growing of sports hobbies, the exciting world of Olympic memorabilia includes pins, badges, medals, torches, posters, tickets, programs, books, souvenir items, and so much more. Included here are items from the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens, Greece, in 1896, through the games of 2000. Both Summer and Winter Olympic memorabilia is covered. With over 500 color photographs and an up-to-date price guide, this is the most complete Olympic memorabilia book available anywhere in the world. The perfect guide for any level of collector.

Finally, a guide to vintage chenille for the collector and designer. This book takes you on a rich visual tour of vintage chenille bedspreads manufactured from the 1920s through the early 1970s. Hundreds of these beautiful tufted spreads are shown as well as novelty items and clothing. Detail shots highlight manufacturing techniques and trace the change from handmade to machine manufacture. A price guide is included in the captions. An introduction acquaints readers with the wonderful story of chenille: its birth just over a century ago in the southern town of Dalton, Georgia, and the rise of Dalton to prominence in the tufted spread and later the carpet industry. This book helps fuel the recent rebirth of chenille in today's textile industry.

Originally written in 1905, this volume examines the coins of Japan, especially appealing because of a subtle and impersonal charm which pervades their inscriptions and the sentiments which they set forth. They are written in characters which are a manifest surviva of the picture writing of early man. He wrote, that is to say, scored or scratched, various outline sketches of his doings and the more intimate facts of his surroundings, on bone, clay or other material.

Step into the private world of Derek Roberts, an eminent antique clock dealer since the 1960s to the present who has written eight books covering many aspects of the subject. Revisit an era when clocks, and antiques in general, were plentiful and modestly priced and compare with today, when good examples are difficult to find and higher priced. Clear advice is given on buying and selling clocks, including buying, researching, restoring, and conserving, and then documenting them prior to sale. Pitfalls are discussed, with examples of problems that may be encountered and mistakes made, some of which have a humorous element. All the factors that effect running an antiques business, such as VAT, Import Tax, Capital Gains Tax (clocks are exempt), recessions, bank interest rates, staff, and many others are discussed. Above all, the book exposes the knowledge, and pleasure to be gained upon entering this intriguing world. Some of the rare and fascinating clocks that have passed through the author's hands are illustrated.

Amidst the rolling land of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of New York, stands the city of Ithaca. Over 250 vintage, hand-tinted and black and white postcards from the 1900s to the 1940s take readers on a nostalgic journey, showcasing Ithaca's most famous and interesting spots. Attend a concert at Ithaca College, a lecture at Cornell University, or lunch at the Clinton House. Travel outside Ithaca for a trip to the majestic Taughannock Falls, hike in Buttermilk Falls State Park, or cheer the Cornell Crew Team to victory from the shores of Cayuga Lake.

In recent years, collectors have come to recognize the beauty and value of Roycroft items, particularly the art metal which is the most available, affordable, and varied of all Roycroft collectibles. Influenced by the English movement that was spearheaded by William Morris, Elbert Hubbard began a new industry dedicated to quality of design and manufacture, from its factories near Buffalo, New York. With 179 full color illustrations, this newly revised & expanded identification and price guide offers Arts and Crafts collectors and dealers an in-depth look at the many objects that were made. Included are bowls, vases, jewelry, desk items, bookends, candlesticks and other items of interest. The text provides the history and background of the company, as well as information about each of the products illustrated. There is also a good selection of original advertising and promotional material.

In March, 2003, the Academy Awards celebrates its 75 anniversary. To chronicle those award-winning movies, this wonderful new book presents a history illustrated of the Academy Awards with over 850 movie posters. It is a visual feast that provides an image from almost every winning picture in every category. Everyone who loves motion pictures will delight in this book. Information about every winner makes this a beautiful and valuable source for research. The posters recall each movie's history and recapture in its magic. For collectors of movie memorabilia and posters, this is a great treasure trove and the price guide makes the book a necessary tool for building one's collection. This is a must for every public and personal library and, whether they are devotees of "Gone with the Wind" or "The Matrix" or anything in between, it is a perfect gift for movie fanatic.

Bounce back to the carefree childhood days when you spent hours with your yo-yo learning to "walk the dog" or go "around the world". Yo-yos of many companies, decades (from the 1930s onward), and designs are displayed along with yo-yos that shriek, whistle, and spark. Whether you prefer wood or plastic, butterflies or teenies, Duncans or Whirl Kings, here you will find the yo-yos that you like best in over 275 color photographs. Also, yo-yo championship patches, tricks books, and trophies are displayed. Brief histories of several yo-yo companies such as Cheerio, Duncan, and Royal are provided. Methods are explored for roughly determining a yo-yo's age, through inscribed zip codes and patent numbers. Current market values for each and every yo-yo are found in the captions.

From Alpenbrau to Zima, this engaging book features more than 450 color photos of some of the most attractive beer signs ever created and provides an in-depth look at this significant aspect of advertising art. Included are early wood and cardboard signs, animated, hanging, and wall-mounted signs, electric lanterns, and clocks-all presented in alphabetical order according to brand of beer. Special emphasis is given to electric, lighted, and animated signs from 1950-1970, the Golden Era of beer signs. Captions provide valuable information on dates, sizes, values, manufacturers, and manufacturing techniques. A treat for aficionados of breweriana and advertising alike!

With over 6000 items listed, this is the most comprehensive guide to Batman (R) collectibles ever assembled between two covers. Nearly 300 color photographs accompany the informative articles and detailed price guide listings. Highlights include a Comics section which lists every comic book in which Batman has appeared from his debut in 1939 through to the end of 1997, plus a Figures section which lists all of the various Batman action figures. Covering everything from Artwork to Videos, and price ranges from 15- to $150,000, this book is a must for any Batfan or student of popular culture.

Enchanting lady figurine planters were promoted heavily by florists and five-and-dime stores, becoming a gift-giver's favorite during the 1950s and '60s. These lovely ladies were produced mainly in Japan, targeted for the U.S. market, and most commonly adorned with colorful plastic flowers. Today they are rapidly gaining popularity on the ceramics collectibles market. These planters have made limited appearances in head vase and figural planter books, but here, finally, is a comprehensive guide devoted specifically to this fascinating collectible. It focuses on Japanese-manufactured products and features over 350 color photographs of more than 700 planters. Individual captions describe each planter's height, mark, and estimates current market value. Also included is a review of planter production techniques and the various ways they were identified and numbered. As an added bonus, a handy cross-reference provides an easy way for specialty collectors to find their favorite importer such as Lefton, Relpo, or Enesco. Featuring a wonderful variety of planters, from festively painted Christmas ladies to nursery rhyme characters and Valentine sweethearts, this carefully crafted book provides collectors and dealers with a superb reference.