"Clients are currently looking for well-made, well-executed items by specific designers. 
James Mont, Edward Wormley and Karl Springer pieces are big sellers."

- Nicholas Atkins, Prime Gallery, Southold, which specializes in 20th century furniture and furnishings by designers from the '30s to the '50s

"Antique platinum engagement rings with 2- to 3-carat cushion and now even pear shapes are making a comeback. And, when it comes to watches, the public has discovered high-end brands like Patek Philippe and Vacheron & Constantine, which previously were known only to extremely wealthy collectors and connoisseurs."

- Steve Fishman, Steve Fishman Co., Manhasset, which specializes in vintage watches, estate and period jewelry, and silver

"A Bakelite collector for decades, it has been nice to see its popularity surge in recent years, moving out of the shoe boxes ... and really coming into its own. Within the antiques community, Bakelite is now noticed and acknowledged even by older, more conservative dealers."

- Judy Bergman, What Was Is Vintage, Merrick, which specializes in vintage costume and estate jewelry, and vintage clothing

"Buyers now in their 40s are nostalgic and sweeping up gems from the 1950s and 1960s, including pieces by designers Tommi Parzinger, Dunbar Furniture, and Eames. People remember happiness, whether it is a grandmother's house or items from one's childhood. Mid-century items with balance and beauty, that really speak of an era, sell."

- Mary B. Ross, Great Neck, who specializes in 19th and 20th century furniture and textiles

"People are looking for mid-century furniture and lighting with a nice, clean look. Sales of more ornate French and Italian pieces appear to be on the decline. Buyers also know more and are asking for pieces by designer name, like Paul Evans."

- Mark Kaplan, Long Beach, who specializes in furniture and lighting, predominantly from the late 19th century to the 1970s

"More intricately designed, high-quality silver is very popular. Because these types of pieces were made for less than 50 years, there are a finite number and the demand is only increasing. Buyers appreciate the age and quality of these scarce pieces."

- Nili Gitig, Huntington, who specializes in American sterling silver

related: Antique jewelry dealers a selection of dealers in Antique Jewelry