Bertoia Auction clients have the greatest pool of expert knowledge, possibly ever assembled, under one Gallery name. The inclusion of notables from varying fields was an idea conceived by Bill, and the grouping of experts demonstrates the long-standing commitment he maintained in the world of antique toys. Each member brings years of experience, and most importantly, the desire and demand to keep setting the standards of excellence in collecting higher and higher.
The advisory committee was created to insure that new toy fields of interest are properly cataloged in a standard and uniform process employing, what may be called, the best people in the business. The committee forms a nucleus of professionalism and the combined membership may well be considered the most impressive group of auction house consultants teamed together for the sole purpose of providing accuracy and expert toy opinion.
The affiliates were chosen for sheer knowledge, reputation among collectors, and their ability to share their collecting spirit with the entire toy community. Bertoia Auctions has always attempted to promote the growing popularity of antique toy collecting to the advanced and beginning collectors alike, and each of the new members has demonstrated the same will and dedication to share in the joy of collecting through total toy camaraderie.
It is a sincere pleasure to announce the members, and present their distinguished biographies. The following advisors, of which little introduction is needed, are officially affiliated with Bertoia Auctions:
Donal Markey
Dealer and collector of antique toy mechanical and still banks and cast iron toys. Donal's expertise is readily recognized as a contributing consultant to the notable Norman Bank Book, and various other published reference guides. His knowledge in the field of cast iron toys extends to the early days of collecting and consulting with legendary clients Stan Sax, Edwin Mosler, Leon Perlman, and still others, in the long list of distinguished toy collectors. Considered by many one of the premier experts in the world, Donal was not only one of Bill Bertoia's closest companions, but a very welcomed and important addition to the advisory staff.
Doug and Pat Wengel
This genuinely great natured dealer/ collector couple has been associated with the best of Disney and comic character toys for several decades now. They have consulted and spoken at seminars for Disney World during conventions and are thought to be the leading experts in their field currently among collectors. They have graciously accepted the position of staff advisors for Bertoia Auctions, and collectors can expect an unending wealth of knowledge with their coveted acceptance to the Gallery.
Stuart Waldman
European trains and toy expert, Stuart may have the distinction of being the youngest staff member to date. His tenure into toy dealing and collecting began at an early age, and he has become one of the world's leading authorities in his chosen toy field. His on going friendship with the staff has made him a natural choice for the advisory staff, and collectors can be assured that rare European toy entries will receive Stuart's years of knowledge for truly professional advisement. He is another in the line of very important and select Gallery associates that will make a difference for many years of collecting.
Ann Meeham
Dealer and collector of Doll's Houses and fine miniature furniture. Ann's tenure in the antique world spans nearly thirty years strong, and she is considered an authority in her respective field of interest. Ann has appeared in numerous trade magazines, and has made the cover of International Dolls' House News, twice. She has been a prominent contributor and lecturer at many of the notable shows and Historical Societies across the country. In addition to her American show tour schedule, extensive travel and participation abroad has helped Ann become a well recognized and respected antiques authority in the European arena. She contributes greatly to the Bertoia staff, and her years of expertise will be an unmeasurable asset to the Gallery.
Rick Saxman
A full time dealer in antiques since 1981, Rick specializes in antique dolls, Steiff, and Bears. Rick has been a consultant for a number of sources for years, and his knowledge is as detailed as his experience. He served as Co-Chairman of the dealer salesroom Federation of Doll Club's National Convention in 2003 and 2004 and has served as various officers of NADDA.
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