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11 Cool Christmas Gifts for Everyone: The Magic of Antique & Vintage Finds
Posted by Chris on 05/12/2025
When it comes to buying Christmas gifts, finding something that’s actually unique can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
In a world overflowing with mass-produced gadgets and gift cards, antique and vintage items stand out as thoughtful, memorable, and – dare we say – cool gifts for anyone on your list.
Whether you’re shopping for a family member, a friend, or a colleague, here’s why you should consider going down the antiques and vintage road this Christmas - with recommendations for 11 Cool Christmas Gifts for Everyone from the experts at Antiques.co.uk: where the past makes a great present.
A Christmas story - with a sprinkle of history
We’ve said it many times before, but we’ll say it again: every antique or vintage item carries its own story. Unlike newly-bought gifts, these treasures have lived a life (and sometimes many lives) before they even reach your hands.
Imagine gifting a 1950s typewriter to a budding writer, or a set of Art Deco cocktail glasses to a friend who loves to entertain. These gifts aren’t just objects – they’re conversation starters and tokens of nostalgia that are much more likely to spark curiosity and joy.
Pictured: A Rare Solid Brass Corkscrew, £275 / $366
Sustainability and eco-friendliness
We know that we bang on about this all the time, but choosing antiques and vintage is such a sustainable choice, any time of year. By giving your loved one a pre-loved item, you’re reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.
This eco-friendly approach is increasingly important to many, especially younger generations who value sustainability. A beautiful antique brooch or vintage gold ring isn’t just a gift: it’s a statement that you care for the planet.
Pictured: 1970s French Maison Charles Table Lamp with Egyptian Motif, £850 / $1,133
Unique finds that will suit most tastes
You know this, and we know this: the world of antiques and vintage goods is just so incredibly diverse. With some careful thought, you can find something for everyone - here are a few examples:
- For the fashionista: Vintage scarves, handbags, or jewellery add timeless flair to any wardrobe.
- For the homebody: Mid-century lamps, retro clocks, or hand-painted ceramics make any space feel special.
- For the music lover: Classic vinyl records or vintage radios can be both functional and decorative.
- For the bookworm: First editions, leather-bound classics, or quirky old maps make thoughtful, personal gifts.
Because these items are often one-of-a-kind, your gift is practically guaranteed to be as unique as the person you’re giving it to.
> Skip to our Cool Christmas Gift recommendations
Pictured: Rare Embroidered Map of the Counties of England and Wales, 1804, £295 / $393
Tips for giving antique and vintage
- Know their style: Pay attention to the recipient’s tastes and interests. A little research goes a long way!
- Check the item’s condition: Make sure the item is in good shape or can be easily restored. You can always contact the seller listed on the Antiques.co.uk item listing to ask them ahead of purchasing (and of course, inspect the photos).
- Add a personal touch: You could include a note with your gift about the item’s history or why you chose it for them.
Avoid the hectic Christmas shopping crowds - get your gifts online with Antiques.co.uk from the comfort of your own home.
Where to find cool Christmas gifts for everyone
Of course we’re a little biased here – you can find nearly all of our recommendations right here on Antiques.co.uk! You can browse tens of thousands of items listed by hundreds of sellers around the world – from the comfort of your own sofa. No need to slog it out on the bustling high street.
But you might be keen to get out and about in the real world, and if so then you’ll undoubtedly find plenty of local antique shops, flea markets, and even estate sales near you. If you ask them, sellers are usually happy to share the stories behind their pieces, which will make your gift even more meaningful to the person who'll be receiving it.
Cool Christmas gifts for everyone: our recommendations
1. Vintage Glassware
Hand-blown glass ornaments from Germany or the Czech Republic (like kugels) are highly collectible and add a touch of old-world charm to any Christmas tree. Look for unique shapes, colours, and hand-painted details. Some rare pieces can be quite valuable!
On Antiques.co.uk, you'll find a huge array of antique and vintage glassware from tumbler sets and centrepieces to decanters, jugs and fruit bowls.
We like:
- Silver Plated Drinks Tray with Cut Glass Decanters and Green Jug (pictured above), £700 / $933
- 1930s French Lead Crystal Fluted Bowl, £140 / $186
- Pair of 1930s Fenton Grape Carnival Iridescent Sweet Bowls, £45 / $60
> Browse all antique and vintage glassware
2. Antique Jewellery Boxes
A beautifully crafted metal or wooden jewellery box from the Victorian or Art Deco era makes a thoughtful and elegant gift. These often feature intricate designs and can be used to store keepsakes or jewellery.
We like:
- Regency Blonde Tortoise Shell Ladies Table Top Sewing Box (pictured above), £2,450 / $3,267
- Immaculate Crocodile Jewellery Box Circa 1890, £350 / $466
- Victorian Burr Walnut and Brass Mounted Jewellery Box Dated 1880, £565 / $753
3. Retro Pens and Desk Accessories
Vintage desk organisers, typewriters, brass pen holders - and especially pens - are perfect for anyone who loves a stylish workspace. These items combine practicality with nostalgic flair.
We like:
- Vintage Boxed Waterman Pen with 18CT Gold Nib (pictured above), £295 / $393
- Black Forest Ink & Pen Desktop Organiser, £245 / $326
> Browse antique & vintage pens and desktop accessories
4. Classic Kitchen Accessories
Antique and vintage kitchen accessories can be practical, charming and sentimental. They’re great for home cooks, anyone who loves a bit of culinary history, or someone who likes their kitchen to have a bit of vintage charm.
We like:
- Antique Victorian Kitchen Copper Jam Preserves Pan (pictured above), £POA
- Downton Abbey Kitchen-Quality Toleware Flour Bin, £1,750 / $2,333
- 19th Century Two Gallon Copper Measuring Jug, £350 / $466
> Browse all antique & vintage kitchenware
5. Mid-Century Barware
Think vintage whiskey decanter sets, cocktail shakers, or etched glassware. These are perfect for entertainers and add a sophisticated touch to any home bar.
We like:
- 1960s Midcentury American Dry Bar (pictured above), £2,900 / $3,867
- Vintage Globe Bar, £500 / $666
- Breweriana Mid Century Robert Youngers Sparkling Ales Advertising Sign, £845 / $1,126
> Browse Vintage Alcohol Accessories
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6. Vintage Board Games or Chess Sets
Classic games from decades past—like wooden chess sets, Monopoly editions from the 1960s, or retro puzzles—make fun, interactive gifts for families or game lovers.
We like:
- Original Kashmir (India) Inlaid Marble Chess Table (pictured above), £750 / $1,000
- Rare Antique English Tunbridge Ware Games Box / Chess / Table Bagatelle c.1860, £POA
- Oak Tantalus with Chess Set, £295 / $393
> Browse all antique and vintage toys
7. Antique Clocks
A retro wall clock or a small Art Deco mantel clock is both decorative and functional. These pieces often feature beautiful craftsmanship and can become a focal point in any room.
We like:
- 1940s Siemens Industrial Light Up Clock, Fully Refurbished (pictured above), £1,850 / $2,466
- Art Deco Amsterdam School Oak and Macassar Ebony/Coromandel Mantel Clock, £775 / $1,033
- Typical Art Deco Amsterdam School Oak and Macassar Ebony/Coromandel Mantel Clock, £390 / $520
8. Old Cameras
Vintage cameras, especially Polaroids or 35mm models, are popular with photography enthusiasts and collectors. They look great on display and can sometimes still be used with the right film.
We like:
- Early 20th Century Stereoscopic Camera by Leoca (pictured above), £295 / $393
- Black Coronet Midget Camera, £250 / $333
- Extremely Rare WWII Spy Camera, £750 / $1,000
9. Vintage Textiles
Look for hand-embroidered table linens, festive tablecloths, or cosy wool blankets from the mid-20th century. These add warmth and nostalgia to any home.
We like:
- William Morris Tree of Life Flemish Woven Tapestry (pictured above), £295 / $393
- Colourful Vintage Indian Embroidered Textile Hanging, £50 / $66
- Large Handmade Portuguese Arraiolos Hanging, £200 / $266
10. Retro Fashion Accessories & Couture
Vintage (and couture) scarves, handbags, cufflinks, or brooches are stylish and unique. They’re perfect for anyone who loves to add a touch of personality to their wardrobe.
We like:
- Beautiful "Colorama" Chanel Camellia Brooch (pictured above), £365 / $486
- Very Rare 1940s Chanel Eagle Brooch with Drop Pearl, £485 / $646
- Vintage Gentleman's Revolver Cufflinks, £POA
- Antique Evening Shawl with 2oz Silver, £2,549 / $3,400
11. Classic Vinyl & Gramophone Accessories
For music lovers, a carefully chosen vintage record player can make a lovely personal and thoughtful gift. On Antiques.co.uk, there's a plentiful supply of gramophone accessories which could either be used - or make a nice statement piece in a living room or music room.
We like:
- Thomas Edison Home Phonograph with 9 Original Cylinder Records in working condition (pictured above), £1,704 / $2,272
- HMV Record Player Model 102, £295 / $393
- Horn for 1920s Gramophone, £295 / $393
> Browse all record players and gramophones
Your next read
If you're looking for some help and guidance for your Christmas gift shopping, you've come to the right place. Try these recommendations we've put together for gifts for her, for him and more this Christmas:
> 9 Antique & Vintage Christmas Gift Ideas for Her
> The Best Christmas Gift Ideas for your dad or husband
> Why Antique & Vintage Makes the Best Christmas Gifts in 2025
> How you can sell your unwanted items before Christmas - and make some Christmas cash
Happy Christmas shopping!