By definition, an item is legally considered an antique if it is greater than 100 years old. The term collectible is often used to define objects that are not yet old enough to be classified as antiques. However not all antiques are collectibles, and not all collectibles antiques. The word collectible is difficult to define as it connotes different things for different people.

In general, a collectible is an object that was made in large numbers and is coveted by a good many people, thereby creating a “market” for the item. Furthermore, the greater the interest in an item, the more information becomes available, which in turn creates greater interest. Items that spontaneously become “collectible” are not specifically marketed as a collectible, but become such over time as interest builds in the item. Then there are companies that intentionally create objects marketed specifically as collectibles. They sell their items, then stop production for a time, creating a search frenzy amongst collectors, only to start production again, continuing this over and over until the market is saturated and people lose interest.

In assembling a great, or even a good collection, it is best to consider the value of an object over time, whether it has artistic or historical merit.

Love what you collect. It is best to carefully seek out fine examples of what you are collecting. Quality over quantity.

Be careful with your old porcelain and remember that dishwashers, electric or microwave ovens didn't exist not so long ago in the past so the old porcelain you have now probably isn't made to take the rough treatment given to it by modern household conveniences. If you want your old porcelain to last a while hand wash it only with gentle soap.

Care

Avoid extremes of humidity and temperature, which accelerate cracking and checking of finish, and loosen joints and veneer. Do not set beverage glasses, vases of flowers, etc. on surfaces without coaster or mat protection.

Cleaning

Vacuum or dust with a soft cloth. Occasionally use a cloth just barely dampened with solvent-based cleaning wax to wipe the surface to pick up more dust, and immediately wipe with a dry cloth or soft paper towel. Do not use spray waxes and polishes on surfaces as they will leave a higher gloss and some silicone which may make future refinishing more difficult.

Occasionally wax with paste (carnauba) wax. Rub on a very light coat with a soft cloth with the grain of the wood (or put a lump of wax inside a few layers of folded cheesecloth and rub onto wood thus preventing heavy smears); then buff at once with soft cloth, turning often, until wax coating is hard. (Old cotton tee-shirts are good.) Be sure all wax is completely buffed until hard to avoid smears and streaks. Here a small electric polisher is a great "arm-saver" on all smooth surfaces; wipe surface gently with clean soft cloth after applying wax to remove any loosened soil and then let set several minutes (following wax label directions) before power buffing. An occasional re-buffing will renew the soft gloss. Paste wax helps cover small cracks and checks in old finishes, and can easily be removed with solvent when desired.