Ep 1. Antiquing in Adamstown, PA
- July 16, 2012
Market Warriors season 1 episode 1 titled "Antiquing in Adamstown, PA" takes the viewers on a thrilling adventure of four competitive antique buyers who head to Pennsylvania to participate in a challenge. They are given a budget of $1000 and 24 hours to hunt for the best antique items they can find in two different markets that boast over 500 dealers. The buyers are challenged to find the best items in four categories, including textiles, furniture, paper and pottery.
The market warriors are determined to bring their A-game as they travel throughout the small town of Adamstown, Pennsylvania, which is known for being the "Antiques Capital of America." Mark Meyer, the show's host, sets them off on their mission with a stern reminder that buying is only the first part of the challenge; they also have to sell their wares in a New York auction house, where they will be judged based on their profits.
Each of the market warriors has their own style and strategy. Kevin Bruneau is an auctioneer from Rhode Island who boasts of his ability to find items that he can sell at a profit. Bene Raia is a Brooklyn-based picker who is known to have an eye for unique pieces. Bob Richter is a designer and decorator who specializes in finding artwork and furniture with flair, while John Bruno is a New Jersey-based picker who focuses on finding rare and one-of-a-kind items.
The show's first challenge is finding textiles, and the buyers are sent to the famous Renninger's Market. There, Kevin falls in love with a set of Victorian curtains that cost him $250. Bene, John, and Bob take different paths, but each manages to find some unique pieces to add to their collection.
Next up is furniture, and the buyers are sent to the Black Angus Market. Bob and Kevin struggle to find pieces that fit their criteria but manage to land some good finds eventually. Bene finds a unique piece that portrays African-American culture and John scores a rare piece from a dealer who specializes in French antiques.
The third challenge is paper, and the buyers are sent to Shupp's Grove Market. Bob has an eye for antique maps and globes, and he finds a couple of unique pieces that he believes can fetch a profit. Kevin finds an old watch, and John scores some rare old postcards. Bene is initially frustrated but eventually lands a great discovery - a children's book with illustrations by famous artist Maxfield Parrish.
The final challenge is pottery, and the buyers go back to the Black Angus Market. John and Bene go for classic pottery pieces, while Bob and Kevin take a risk with some unique pieces. At the end of the day, each buyer has to ship their items to the auction house in New York City and hope that their investments will pay off.
Overall, "Antiquing in Adamstown, PA" is a thrilling episode that showcases the intricacies of the antiques market. The buyers' unique strategies and styles make for a fascinating watch as they navigate through the different markets in search of the best antique pieces. The show offers a glimpse into the world of antiques, and the challenges the buyers face highlight the importance of having a keen eye for detail, a strategic mind, and great negotiation skills.
