Among the storied names of British silver, one shines with a mix of royal pedigree and cinematic cool — Asprey London. For nearly 250 years, Asprey and Co. has been the silversmith of choice for kings, queens, and even James Bond himself. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and refined design, Asprey remains a symbol of understated British luxury that never goes out of style.
In this blog, we explore the history, artistry, and enduring appeal of Asprey London silver, from its royal beginnings and design legacy to the most collectible pieces sought by collectors today.
History of Asprey London
Asprey’s story begins in 1781, when William Asprey opened a small shop in Mitcham, Surrey, offering luxurious dressing cases and finely crafted silver goods. The business later moved to Bond Street, where it flourished as one of Britain’s most distinguished names in silver and fine gifts. By the mid-19th century, Asprey’s reputation for impeccable craftsmanship and tasteful design had captured the attention of royalty and society alike.
Asprey has served every British monarch since Queen Victoria. It crafted the Coronation Regalia cases for King George VI in 1937 and bespoke wedding gifts for Queen Elizabeth II. The Bond Street store became a trusted destination for diplomats and royalty seeking presentation pieces, with commissions extending well beyond Britain’s borders.
Throughout its history, Asprey has also found a place in culture and legend. The brand is famously linked to James Bond, appearing in Ian Fleming’s novels and later providing accessories for the film series. That connection cemented Asprey’s image as refined, modern, and unmistakably British.
In 1912, Asprey supplied luxury travel goods and vanity cases to first-class passengers aboard the RMS Titanic. A few of those pieces, marked Asprey and Co, have resurfaced at auction — a poignant reminder of the brand’s role in Edwardian high society. (Titanic Artifacts Exhibit / RR Auction Catalogues, RR Auction, 2018–2020)
From Bond Street to Buckingham Palace, from the Titanic to the silver screen, Asprey London has woven its way into both history and culture. It remains a house where luxury and legacy are crafted in equal measure.
The Craftsmanship of Asprey London Silver
Asprey London silver is admired for its blend of innovation and tradition. During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the company was celebrated for intricately chased tea and coffee services, vanity sets, and decorative trays, often engraved with elegant motifs or family crests. Later, the Art Deco period brought sleeker, geometric lines that reflected the changing tastes of the modern age.
Each piece of Asprey London silver reveals an attention to proportion and finish that sets it apart. Collectors often comment on the subtle balance between luxury and restraint — pieces that are impressive, yet never ostentatious. Whether it’s a finely hammered bowl, a sterling cigar case, or an elegant tray, Asprey’s work carries a distinct sense of timelessness.
Recognising Asprey London Silver Marks
For collectors, understanding Asprey London silver marks is key to identifying genuine pieces. Silverware from the 19th and early 20th centuries may bear the mark “Asprey London” or “A & Co Ltd”, often alongside the British hallmark denoting sterling purity (.925) and the maker’s initials.
Because Asprey occasionally collaborated with other leading silversmiths, including Garrard and Mappin & Webb, some older pieces may feature joint marks or be co-signed. As always, the hallmarks can tell a story: where and when the piece was assayed, the level of silver purity, and the specific workshop responsible for its creation.
From royal commissions to bespoke designs for society’s elite, Asprey’s silver has always reflected both artistry and heritage — qualities that continue to inspire collectors today.
Collectibility and Most Sought After Asprey London Silver
Asprey silver stays highly collectible thanks to enduring quality, refined design, and deep heritage. Market value varies with age, condition, provenance, and whether pieces carry early Asprey London silver marks or hail from prized eras such as late Victorian or Art Deco. Complete, matching services and crisp hallmarks consistently attract the most interest from serious buyers.
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Bright Vine flatware by Asprey and Co remains a trophy pattern for collectors. Hand-forged examples with full place settings command strong results when they appear.
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Art Deco period Asprey London silver — cigarette cases, desk accessories, vanity items — pairs sleek geometry with impeccable finish. Clear maker’s marks support authenticity and dating.
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Tea and coffee services with original trays and fine chasing showcase the workshop’s balance of proportion and restraint. Matching hallmarks across all pieces strengthen value.
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Novelty and desk accessories in distinctive forms offer entry points for new collectors while still reflecting the house style.
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Modern Silver Home Accessories continue the tradition in limited runs. Champagne coasters, candlesticks, and trays deliver functional elegance with contemporary appeal.
Taken together, these categories show why Asprey London silver remains a sound choice for collectors who value craftsmanship and heritage.
Asprey London Today
Asprey London continues to thrive in the modern era. Its flagship location at Asprey House in Mayfair remains a destination for collectors and design enthusiasts from around the world. The brand still produces handcrafted sterling silver, fine jewellery, leather goods, and bespoke commissions, carrying forward the traditions that began nearly 250 years ago.
Asprey retains its Royal Warrant under King Charles III and continues to collaborate with leading artists and luxury partners. Recent collections include limited-edition silver and crystal pieces that pair time-honoured silversmithing with contemporary design.
While its style has evolved, the essence of Asprey and Co remains unchanged — timeless British design, created with care and craftsmanship that ensures every piece, from a silver tray to a hand-cut decanter, endures as both art and heritage.
Fine Silver at Around the Block
For collectors and decorators alike, fine silver has a way of bridging beauty and history. Around the Block carries previously owned silver from all the top British makers, including Asprey London, Garrard, Mappin & Webb, Arthur Price, and Barker Bros., alongside other distinguished names from Europe and North America.
Our sterling tableware collection includes tea services, trays, flatware, and decorative pieces that reflect generations of artistry and design. Visit our Lesmill Road showroom to explore our full range of fine silver, where every piece tells a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and enduring style.
