“Find It, Fix It, Flog It” is a British television series that has captured the imagination of audiences with its mix of antiques, restoration, and profit-making. With a combination of treasure hunting, craftsmanship, and a bit of entrepreneurial flair, the show has garnered a dedicated following. Hosted by the charismatic Henry Cole and master restorer Simon O’Brien, the show takes viewers on a journey of finding hidden gems, restoring them to their former glory, and selling them for a profit. This article will delve into the details of the show, its appeal, behind-the-scenes insights, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions by viewers.

What Is “Find It, Fix It, Flog It”?

“Find It, Fix It, Flog It” is a British television series that originally premiered on Channel 4 in 2018. The premise of the show is simple yet captivating: two experts Henry Cole and Simon O’Brien search for hidden treasures in various locations around the UK. These treasures often come in the form of old, dilapidated objects such as furniture, vintage cars, or machinery. Once they find something of value, the duo brings it back to life by restoring it, fixing what’s broken, and making it desirable again. 

The final step is to “flog it” by putting it up for sale and making a profit. The show is not just about restoring old objects but also about understanding the potential value of antiques and collectibles. It provides an interesting insight into the world of restoration, antiques trading, and the ever-growing trend of upcycling.

The Hosts: Henry Cole and Simon O’Brien

Henry Cole: Henry Cole, the main host of the show, is a renowned television presenter with a wealth of experience in the world of antiques and motorbikes. His expertise is a major draw for fans of “Find It, Fix It, Flog It.” Cole has an extensive background in the antique and restoration industries, having hosted other successful shows such as “The Motorbike Show” and “World’s Most Expensive Cars.” His passion for finding hidden treasures and his upbeat, approachable personality make him a perfect fit for the series.

Simon O’Brien: Simon O’Brien, a skilled restorer, brings his technical expertise and craftsmanship to the series. O’Brien has a background in property restoration and has been involved in various television projects related to upcycling and restoring old items. His hands-on approach to fixing and restoring objects makes him the perfect counterpart to Henry Cole’s treasure-hunting skills. Together, Cole and O’Brien create an engaging dynamic that resonates with viewers, as their contrasting personalities and shared passion for antiques make for compelling television.

Popularity and Appeal of the Show

The success of “Find It, Fix It, Flog It” can be attributed to several factors. For one, the show taps into the growing trend of sustainability and upcycling. In a world where people are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of consumerism, the show offers an alternative approach: rather than buying new products, viewers are encouraged to find, restore, and repurpose old items.

Additionally, there is an element of nostalgia tied to the objects featured on the show. Many viewers enjoy watching the restoration of items from past decades, such as old furniture, vehicles, and even industrial machinery. This connection to the past, combined with the satisfaction of seeing a worn item transformed into something beautiful or functional again, is part of the show’s enduring appeal.

Moreover, the “flog it” part of the show appeals to viewers who are interested in the business aspect of antiques. The process of evaluating an item’s value, negotiating sales, and ultimately making a profit adds an entrepreneurial dimension that attracts both collectors and casual viewers alike.

The Process: How It Works

The basic structure of “Find It, Fix It, Flog It” follows a tried-and-true format. Each episode involves the hosts visiting different locations around the UK in search of forgotten treasures. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Finding the Treasure: The first step in the process is finding the item to restore. The hosts travel across various parts of the UK, attending auctions, sales, and flea markets. They also visit private homes, barns, and even scrap yards in search of valuable items that are often overlooked by others. Sometimes, these items can be in a state of complete disrepair, which requires a keen eye for potential value. It’s not just about what the item looks like initially, but about understanding the craftsmanship and historical significance it might hold.

Restoring and Fixing: Once the item has been found, the next step is the restoration process. Simon O’Brien, with his expertise, takes the lead in repairing, restoring, and reviving the item. This can involve anything from sanding and repainting furniture to fixing a car’s engine or restoring a piece of industrial machinery. The restoration process can be incredibly labor-intensive, and often, the items require a fair amount of work before they’re ready for sale. The show showcases the skills of the craftsmen, highlighting their attention to detail and dedication to bringing the items back to life.

Flogging It (Selling): After the restoration is complete, the final step is to sell the item. The hosts take the newly restored objects to auction houses, specialist dealers, or hold private sales, depending on the item’s type and value. The aim is to sell the item for a profit, but often there’s an element of suspense about whether or not the item will fetch the expected price. The selling part of the show is one of the most exciting aspects, as viewers get to see the real-time value of the restoration and the business side of antiques.

Behind the Scenes: How the Show Is Made

“Find It, Fix It, Flog It” is more than just a reality show about antiques; it’s a well-produced and carefully crafted program. The filming process takes time, especially for the restoration aspect, which can take days or even weeks to complete. The show’s production team works closely with the hosts to ensure that each restoration is captured authentically and in detail.

The series is shot in various locations across the UK, with the crew traveling to find the best and most interesting items. The filming process also involves a lot of preparation, with researchers tracking down interesting objects and ensuring that the historical and technical aspects of the restorations are accurate.

FAQs

What is “Find It, Fix It, Flog It” about?

“Find It, Fix It, Flog It” is a British TV show that aired on Channel 4. The show is hosted by two experts, Henry Cole and Simon O’Brien, who go on adventures to find forgotten or unused items. These items are typically found in garages, attics, or other forgotten spaces. After finding these pieces, they restore and repair them, bringing them back to their original glory before selling them at auction or to collectors. The aim is to make a profit while preserving history and heritage.

Is “Find It, Fix It, Flog It” scripted?

No, the show is not scripted. While there is some pre-production planning to organize where the hosts will search for items and which pieces will be featured, the process of restoring and selling the items is genuine. The hosts share their expertise and the restoration work is real, giving the show an authentic feel.

How much do the items sell for on “Find It, Fix It, Flog It”?

The prices of the items vary widely depending on their condition, rarity, and market demand. Some items can fetch a few hundred pounds, while others, especially rare vintage cars or collectibles, can sell for thousands. The hosts typically aim to restore items in a way that increases their value, but the final price depends on the buyers and the auction process.

In Summary

“Find It, Fix It, Flog It” is more than just a television show; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. With its compelling format and engaging hosts, the series offers a fascinating look into the world of antique restoration and the business of buying and selling treasures. Whether you’re a fan of antiques, enjoy seeing things get a second life, or are simply interested in making a profit, the show has something for everyone. Through its mix of treasure hunting, restoration, and sales, “Find It, Fix It, Flog It” proves that sometimes, the past holds the key to a profitable future.

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