Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Maritime Antiques Specialists in Dartmouth
Established in 1988, our business has grown from a personal passion for nautical history into one of the UK's most respected specialists in maritime antiques and collectables. With over 22 years of service in the Royal Navy as a Clearance Diver, I developed an unparalleled understanding of underwater archaeology and naval heritage. Since 1988, this expertise has been combined with a family tradition of excellence, now supported by my daughter Suze. Our collection spans centuries of maritime exploration, featuring rare diving equipment, navigational instruments, and Royal Navy memorabilia.Every item in our inventory is carefully authenticated and sourced with ethical provenance. We maintain strong connections across the global nautical community, enabling us to locate even the most elusive pieces. Our Dartmouth-based operation serves collectors, museums, and enthusiasts worldwide, offering expert consultation and secure delivery for valuable items. The same meticulous attention to detail that guided my naval career now informs every transaction, ensuring clients receive both historical treasures and exceptional service.
Services
Nautical Antiques
Collectables
Royal Navy Memorabilia
Diving Equipment
Navigational Instruments
Maritime Decor
Historical Artifacts
Antique Lighting
Naval Weapons
Maritime Books
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of specialist nautical antiques expertise
- Our Royal Navy background ensures authentic maritime heritage knowledge
- Family-run business with personal service since 1988
- Extensive global network for sourcing rare maritime items
- Secure delivery options for valuable and heavy items
Services
Nautical Antiques
Specialist dealing in authentic maritime antiques spanning centuries of naval history. Our collection includes rare diving equipment, ship components, and navigational instruments. Each item undergoes rigorous authentication to ensure historical accuracy and provenance, serving collectors and institutions worldwide.
Royal Navy Memorabilia
Comprehensive range of Royal Navy collectables from the 19th century to modern era. Features include service medals, uniforms, and ship fittings. All items come with detailed historical context and provenance verification, meeting museum-grade standards for authenticity.
Diving Equipment
Extensive selection of antique diving apparatus including historic diving suits and breathing equipment. Specialising in Siebe Gorman products and rare prototypes. Each piece is preserved with conservation techniques maintaining original condition while ensuring safe handling.
Navigational Instruments
Collection of precision navigational instruments used aboard naval vessels. Includes sextants, compasses, and chronometers from renowned makers. All instruments are fully functional where possible, accompanied by historical documentation of their maritime service.
Maritime Decor
Decorative maritime items blending historical significance with aesthetic appeal. Features include ship figureheads, signal flags, and lighting fixtures. Each piece enhances interior spaces while preserving authentic naval heritage through certified provenance verification.
People
David
Owner
Former Royal Navy Clearance Diver with 22 years service, specialising in underwater archaeology. Established Bonds Nautical Antiques in 1988, combining naval expertise with antique dealing. Recognised authority in maritime heritage authentication.
Suze
Co-Owner
Second-generation antique specialist assisting since 1988. Manages day-to-day operations and customer relations. Maintains family tradition of excellence in maritime antiques trade while expanding digital presence.
Questions
Do you provide authentication for your antiques?
All items come with detailed provenance verification and historical documentation.
Can you deliver internationally?
We offer worldwide delivery with specialist shipping options for valuable items.
Are payment plans available?
We accept major credit cards and can arrange payment plans for high-value purchases.
Do you buy private collections?
We regularly acquire complete collections with competitive pricing and professional valuation.
Can I visit your premises?
Visits by appointment only - please contact us to arrange a suitable time.
