Mid Century TV Trays: Are Yours Vintage Gold? Find Out!

Unlocking the Value of Your Mid Century TV Trays

So, you’ve got some mid century tv trays kicking around? Excellent! These seemingly simple pieces of furniture could be hidden gems, and understanding what makes them valuable is key. Let’s dive into how to determine if your "mid century tv trays" are truly vintage gold!

What Makes a TV Tray "Mid Century"?

Before we talk about value, let’s define what we mean by "mid century tv trays." Generally, this refers to tv trays produced from roughly the mid-1940s through the 1960s. They often boast distinct characteristics.

Key Design Features:

• Materials: Think wood, often sleek and tapered legs (common woods included birch, maple, and walnut), combined with Formica or other laminate tops. Metal was also used, especially for the folding mechanisms and occasionally for the legs.
• Shapes: While rectangular was most common, don’t discount circular, oval, or even boomerang-shaped trays.

• Colors & Patterns: Embrace the era! Bold colors, geometric patterns, atomic motifs, and whimsical illustrations were popular.

  Feature	Typical Mid Century Style
  Legs	Tapered, angled
  Top Material	Formica, Wood Laminate
  Colors	Bright, Earthy, Pastels

Identifying Valuable Mid Century TV Trays

Okay, now for the exciting part! How do you tell if your "mid century tv trays" are worth more than just sentimental value?

Look for these tell-tale signs:

• Designer Marks: This is the holy grail! Names like Russel Wright, Arne Jacobsen (though rare for TV trays specifically, the aesthetic influence is important), or even lesser-known but documented designers can dramatically increase value. Look closely on the underside of the tray or on the folding mechanism.
• Rarity: Were they part of a limited edition run? Unique designs or patterns that aren’t commonly seen automatically increase collectibility. Original packaging can significantly boost rarity.
• Condition: This is crucial! Scratches, chips, water damage, or broken folding mechanisms will detract from the value. However, minor wear is acceptable, and sometimes even preferred, as it shows the item’s history. Remember, "original condition" is key.
• Material Quality: High-end materials indicate better construction and often correlate with valuable makers. Think solid wood frames, thick laminate tops, and sturdy metal hardware.

Common Manufacturers to Research:

Here are a few manufacturers that are well-known for Mid Century Modern furniture, including tv trays. Finding examples of their trays online can help you compare to your own:

1. Arvin
2. Samsonite (yes, they made more than just luggage!)
3. Heywood-Wakefield (although primarily known for furniture, they also produced accessories)

Where to Research the Value of Your Mid Century TV Trays

So, you think you’ve got something special? Time for some detective work!

Online Resources:

• eBay (Sold Listings): Search for "mid century tv trays" similar to yours and filter by completed or sold listings. This provides real-world price data.
• Etsy: A great place to see prices for vintage items. Again, focus on sold listings for accuracy.
• Chairish & 1stDibs: These sites specialize in high-end vintage and antique furniture. While you might not find identical tv trays, browsing them can give you a sense of design trends and pricing for comparable mid century items.
• Online Forums & Communities: Join mid century modern enthusiast groups online. Sharing pictures of your trays and asking for opinions is a great way to get feedback.
• Replacements, Ltd.: Though focused on dinnerware, they sometimes have vintage accessories and provide a price reference.

Offline Resources:

• Antique Shops & Dealers: Visit local antique stores and show them pictures of your "mid century tv trays." Experienced dealers can offer valuable insights and appraisals.
• Auction Houses: If you believe your trays are particularly valuable, consider contacting a local auction house. They can assess their worth and potentially put them up for sale.

Cleaning and Preserving Your Mid Century TV Trays

Regardless of monetary value, properly caring for your "mid century tv trays" is essential to preserve their beauty and functionality.

Cleaning Tips:

• Wood: Use a soft cloth and wood cleaner specifically designed for vintage furniture. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Laminate: A damp cloth with mild dish soap is usually sufficient. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
• Metal: Use a metal polish appropriate for the type of metal (chrome, brass, etc.).

Preservation Strategies:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade colors and damage finishes.
• Control Humidity: Extreme humidity can warp wood.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your tv trays in a dry, protected location.
• Repair Gently: If repairs are needed, consult a professional restorer to ensure they are done properly and don’t diminish the value of the item.

So, next time you spot those mid century tv trays tucked away in a corner, take a closer look! They might be more valuable (and stylish!) than you think. Happy hunting!