BBC Antiques Road Trip expert's 'iconic' buy pays off in huge profit at auction

Antiques Road Trip star Charles Hanson was chuffed to bits after taking a gamble that proved to be a winner at an auction. Back in 2012, the BBC show saw experts James Braxton and Charles Hanson scoured the Dorset and Devon coast for rare finds. During his rummage, Charles popped into a Honiton antique shop where he caught up with the owner, an acquaintance from previous visits. With only a couple of treasures in tow, the telly expert knew he had to hustle for some more standout pieces.

Engaging the shopkeeper in conversation, he commented: "I would like to buy a really iconic piece of furniture which has a look about it.". The owner then steered Charles towards something he thought might be of interest. He introduced Charles to a unique Liberty tool, explaining: "It's an Anglo-Moorish range that they did from about 1880. "It's got really tightly turned mashrabiya panels, which have all been separately hand-turned. The decoration on top is very unusual.".

Despite noting that its upholstery had seen better days, with noticeable tears, Charles was not deterred, reports Devon Live. After the seller put the item on the block for £650, Charlie came back with a bold offer. He said: "I would probably part with my entire budget, that's £468.88. Ah you're a piece of work, you've got me going!". A deal was struck when the owner accepted his entire remaining budget for the piece. Turning to the camera, the beaming Charles declared: "Monday going, money up in smoke. Let's hope that stool turns a wee profit in Torquay. Result: sold!".

After striking the deal with a handshake, Charles seemed to second-guess his decision as he muttered: "What have I done?!". The seller, however, was confident of a profitable outcome. As auction day arrived and the stool hit the block, the narrator highlighted the risky venture since Charles had poured the remainder of his funds into it. Starting off at £80, the bids crept up slowly but surely, indicating a keen interest in the piece. Charles's tension eased into a celebratory fist pump once the bidding soared past £500, signaling a tidy profit.

To his astonishment, the price continued to climb, spurred on by two determined phone bidders and James's encouraging words: "Well done mate.". The gavel eventually fell at an impressive £1,050, leaving Charles elated as he exclaimed: "I'm over the moon!". A round of applause filled the room as he and James shared a victorious handshake, while the voiceover praised: "Well done Charles, a very brave purchase, giving you a thorough deserved profit. You are today's winner, by a mile.".