SOUTH AFRICAN ANTIQUE DEALERS' ASSOCIATION

The only true constant in life is change, and the antique industry is certainly no different.

This is evident by significant areas of growth and new areas of interest. Two of these are Art and 20th Century Design. Once considered undesirable, 20th Century Design is now hugely collectable and reaching unprecedented levels worldwide.

South Africa is experiencing the same world trends in the antiques and collectables arena and where concentrations and interests have changed, this is not because items are no longer attractive, but more because of the lack of availability of quality goods from the 18th and 19th centuries.

SAADA continues to move forward accepting new objects that become antique each year as they become 100 years old.

Established 43 years ago by a group of like-minded dealers, SAADA was formed to promote the interests of the dealers and to give the buying public peace of mind when buying from them. These ideals are still upheld today by the Association, which stands by and guarantees everything that it sells.

SAADA hosts two annual Antiques Fairs - Cape Town in February and Johannesburg in October. They are the only fully vetted fairs in South Africa and bring together South Africa’s top dealers from throughout the country.

The SAADA principles

All members of SAADA must have a proven reputation for integrity and honest dealing
All members of SAADA must have been trading for three years or longer
SAADA members will be judged by their own peers
SAADA aims to further the interests of antique dealers and collectors and to promote art and specialist dealers and collectors
Authenticity of purchase is assured by a written guarantee
SAADA is the official recognized body in South Africa for antiques
SAADA carries the stamp of approval

Today SAADA represents 47 dealers countrywide and actively seeks new members, ensuring specialised knowledge covering most collecting areas.  These established dealers have to have been in business for at least three years, and show integrity and honourable trade ethics before being considered for membership.  This ensures that clients receive accurate and authentic information on every purchase, including a written guarantee upon request.  Today in our modern ever-changing world many of our members have dedicated websites allowing clients worldwide to purchase with complete confidence.  Our members are passionate and their expertise has helped build some of the most important collections both private and institutional in South Africa.

In order for our members to showcase the very best that is currently available in South Africa, two fully vetted antique fairs are held annually.  The first takes place in Cape Town in February, during our warm summer season.  The second is in October in Johannesburg, within easy reach of our world famous game parks.  Both of these events have opening nights and complementary tickets are available from any SAADA member.  See our website fur further details.

We look forward to extending you a warm African welcome to our rainbow nation.

Jeremy Astfalck

Chairman

South African Antique Dealers Association