Antique Quest Chronicles: Hidden Treasures Unearthed at Antiquariat 14

Step into the enchanting world of antique hunting as I recount my discoveries in Varna, including a rare pair of early 1900s JBJ Lunettes goggles, a 1960s Mondia Swiss-made pendant watch, and a 1972 Crown Ma-Reine silver-plated lighter. Each item tells its own story and captures the charm of a bygone era.

Join me on an unforgettable journey through history, where I uncover hidden treasures, learn fascinating tales about Varna's rich heritage, and share the thrill of finding unique antiques. Whether you're a collector or simply love a good story, this adventure has something for everyone!

The Thrill of the Hunt

I look across the room, and there it is—just sitting there, waiting for me. My heart skips a beat. I know exactly what it is, even before I take a closer look. It’s like time stands still in these moments, the thrill of discovery washing over me in waves of joy. For antique hunters like us, this is the magic that keeps us going—the promise of unearthing something rare, something significant, something with a story all its own.

This feeling still lingered with me as I reflected on my recent adventures in Varna’s vibrant antique scene. In the previous episode of my journey, where I explored another hidden gem of a shop, I found myself captivated by the stories that each object seemed to whisper. Yet, as I left that cozy haven behind, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Varna itself had even deeper secrets to uncover. My next stop promised yet another chapter in this rich story—one that was as much about the city’s history as it was about its antiques.

Varna: The Cradle of European Civilization

And speaking of Varna’s history, how could I not pause for a moment to marvel at the city’s most astonishing claim to fame? Varna is no ordinary seaside destination. Beneath its sun-drenched boulevards lies the birthplace of Europe’s oldest known civilization. This astounding fact comes to us courtesy of the Varna Necropolis, where, in 1972, archaeologists uncovered what is believed to be the world’s oldest man-made gold treasure.

Dating back over 6,000 years to the Varna Culture, this treasure - a breathtaking collection of meticulously crafted gold jewelry, weapons, and ornaments - rewrote history as we know it. It challenged previous assumptions about the sophistication of prehistoric societies and cemented Varna’s place as the cradle of early European culture. Today, this glittering legacy is preserved and displayed with reverence at the Varna Archaeological Museum, a must-visit for anyone captivated by humanity’s shared heritage.

Stepping Into Antiquariat 14

As I emerged from the museum, still awed by the glittering treasures of the past, I found myself drawn across the boulevard. There, at bul. Maria Luisa 14, stood my next destination: Antiquariat 14, a small but enchanting shop that promised its own kind of historical riches.

At first glance, Antiquariat 14 doesn’t seem like much. It’s not grand or sprawling. But step inside, and you’ll find a treasure chest of objects from across the globe, each with a story to tell. From militaria to automobilia, jewelry, and numismatics, this place has it all. Beautiful tin boxes once used to hold sweets and biscuits sit alongside gleaming silverware and vintage perfume bottles. Antique watches, old cameras, and quirky lighters beckon collectors to explore their histories, while statues, decorative items, and paintings invite you to imagine the worlds they once inhabited.

But what truly sets Antiquariat 14 apart is the passion of its owners. They’re not just antique sellers—they’re restorers of the highest caliber, true artisans with a devotion to preserving the essence of every item. Their work is meticulous, each detail restored with precision and care. It’s as if, in their hands, history comes alive again, polished and reanimated for a new chapter in its life.

A Hidden Gem Unearthed: Early 1900s JBJ Lunettes Goggles

It’s a special kind of thrill when you discover something that isn’t even on display—a hidden treasure tucked away, waiting for the right person to ask the right question. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon my first find at Antiquariat 14: a pair of early 1900s JBJ Lunettes goggles, a stunning artifact designed for automobilists, aviators, and cyclists of the early 20th century.

When I asked the owner if he had anything particularly unique hidden from view, he disappeared into the back room and returned with this remarkable piece. These goggles are not just beautifully crafted—they are a testament to a bygone era of innovation and adventure, when cars and planes were still thrilling novelties. Their design strikes the perfect balance between function and style, with lenses and leatherwork that speak volumes about the high standards of craftsmanship in that period.

But what makes this find even more special is the story behind its restoration. The original box for the goggles arrived in pieces—fragile and scattered. Yet, the skilled restorers at Antiquariat 14 managed to bring it back to life without adding a single foreign material. No modern glue, no new paper, nothing that might compromise its authenticity. Every fragment of the original box was painstakingly preserved and reunited, showcasing not just their expertise, but also their deep respect for the integrity of historical objects.

This item, in its restored condition, could be worth €160.

Learn more and make it yours today

A Timeless Treasure: 1960s Mondia Swiss-Made Vintage Pendant Watch

Every so often, while searching for antiques, I stumble upon something that feels like it was meant to fill a gap in my collection. This time, it was a piece of vintage elegance—a 1960s Mondia Swiss-made enamel folding pendant watch. Unlike many of the items I’ve acquired, which often lean toward masculine tastes, this exquisite piece seems tailor-made for someone with a love of feminine, timeless jewelry.

Hanging from a delicate chain, the watch doubles as a pendant, blending practicality with charm. Its enamel finish and intricate design exude vintage sophistication, making it more than just a timepiece—it’s a statement of refined taste. Despite a few minor marks that only add to its character, the watch is in perfect working condition, a testament to the durability and precision of Swiss craftsmanship.

This vintage jewel could be worth €75.

Learn more and make it yours today

A Spark of History: 1972 Vintage Crown Ma-Reine Silver-Plated Lighter

My next find at Antiquariat 14 was a sleek and rare collectible that perfectly embodies the elegance of mid-century design: the 1972 Crown Ma-Reine silver-plated lighter, commissioned by Toyota. This lighter isn’t just a functional tool; it’s a piece of history, crafted to commemorate the launch of Toyota’s luxury Crown model.

Its refined Art Deco-inspired design and impeccable condition immediately caught my attention. The smooth silver-plated finish, combined with subtle branding, speaks to the understated luxury of the era. It’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand yet substantial enough to convey quality—everything about it feels thoughtfully crafted.

What truly elevates this piece is its pristine condition, including its original box, which bears the Toyota logo. It’s rare to find a vintage lighter with such complete and well-preserved packaging, making it an exceptional addition to any collection. Functional and stylish, it’s a testament to how even everyday items were once crafted with an eye for artistry and detail.

This remarkable lighter could be worth €40.

Learn more and make it yours today

A Deal Sealed with a Handshake and Cash

One of the most enjoyable parts of antique hunting is the negotiation. After carefully selecting my finds - the JBJ Lunettes goggles, the Mondia pendant watch, and the Toyota Crown Ma-Reine lighter - I asked the owner if he’d be willing to offer a discount for the whole pile. With a friendly smile, he considered the request and offered a fair price that left us both satisfied. There’s something delightfully old-school about sealing the deal in cash, which feels fitting when purchasing pieces of history.

A Summer to Remember: Treasures and History in Varna

This journey through Varna has been more than just a summer getaway; it’s been an enriching dive into history. From learning about the world’s oldest man-made gold in the Varna Necropolis to uncovering treasures hidden in the city’s antique shops, I gained a deeper appreciation for the city’s role as a cradle of early European civilization. Combining the joys of a seaside vacation with the thrill of treasure hunting made for an unforgettable experience.

For those who, like me, find joy in hunting for antiques, Varna is a destination worth exploring. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden troves of vintage artifacts make it a place where past and present seamlessly intertwine.

Next Stop: Vintage Market Vienna

As my time in Varna comes to an end, I’m already setting my sights on the next adventure: a visit to the Vintage Market Vienna, a haven for antique lovers in the heart of Austria. I can’t wait to see what treasures I’ll uncover there and share the stories behind them with you.

Until then, happy hunting!