Cocktail enthusiasts with a vintage mixer can now enjoy the added benefit of their shakers increasing in value as investments. The recent surge in interest in artisan spirits, particularly gin, has led to a growing demand for these antique tumblers. Over the past decade, sought-after cocktail shakers have doubled in value and continue to attract attention. Experts suggest that now is a good time to invest in these elegant accessories for possible financial gains.
The modern cocktail shaker, patented by William Harnett in 1872, typically consists of a cylinder with a strainer and cap. The concept is to combine ingredients in the shaker with a few shots of alcohol, add ice, and then strain to create a magical drink. While the earlier shakers resembled coffee pots, it is the sophisticated Art Deco designs from the 1920s and 1930s that are highly sought after by collectors. These designs not only serve a practical purpose but also double as exquisite works of art.
Luxury brands such as Asprey, Cartier, Hermes, Tiffany, and Dunhill produced cocktail shakers during this period. However, there are also coveted pieces from lesser-known manufacturers such as JA Henckels of Dusseldorf. Shakers with novelty designs like a Zeppelin, skyscraper, or airplanes are in high demand. For example, a Henckels 13-inch monoplane cocktail set sold for £6,500 at an auction in Essex last year. Therefore, it is worth having a vintage or unusual shaker appraised, even if it has been sitting in your drinks cabinet for years or if you come across one at a charity shop or car boot sale. Auction houses like Sworders offer free professional valuations.
Simon Khachadourian, a vintage shaker dealer and author of The Cocktail Shaker, suggests that investing in plain silver Tiffany shakers made between 1932 and 1960 is a safe bet due to their classic design and practicality. While prices for these solid silver mixers have doubled in the past decade, they remain strong. Khachadourian believes that we could be entering a second golden age for cocktail shakers due to the increasing interest in different gins and the resurgence of classic cocktails like the martini.
For those with a smaller budget, vintage cocktail shakers at more affordable price points can still be found. Examples include a 1930s glass shaker produced by the West Virginia Glass Company, which can be purchased for £1,000 to £4,000. The rare black glass versions are the most desirable and expensive. Other options include silver-plated shakers from Asprey and Dunhill, which exude luxury appeal. There are also relatively inexpensive vintage pieces available, such as an Italian Art Deco silver-plated cocktail shaker for £60 or a Zeppelin cocktail shaker for £100.
Overall, vintage cocktail shakers, particularly those made from silver or adorned with unique designs, offer not only the potential for financial gains but also a touch of elegance and history to any home bar. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice looking to add a practical and stylish item to your drinks cabinet, there is a cocktail shaker out there for every taste and budget.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
