John Ritchie was a prominent figure of the Maritime antiques community for over forty years. Unassuming and quiet, his passion and knowledge for maritime heritage was obtained from his years at sea and his passion for travelling the country to find unique and historical pieces.
Born in Chiswick, London, in 1944, John spent his childhood on the banks of the Thames, where his love of water began. Joining the Merchant Navy in his teens, he travelled extensively around the world to Canada, India, Australia and the USA. During his time at sea he began collecting and never stopped, always on the lookout for pieces, ranging from traditional seafaring crafts, ship’s fittings, paintings, Ocean liner tableware and his favourite, ship's bells.
A young John Ritchie on a ship
After leaving the merchant navy and working for a brief spell for a marine navigation company, John bought ‘Books Afloat’ in Weymouth in 1983. John continued to travel the countryside, attending Newark and Lincoln Antiques Fairs, filling the shop, not only with nautical antiques, but also toys, collectables and many other items, all carefully selected with a passion and appreciation for their historical or cultural relevance. Entering the shop was indeed an experience for many, as they stepped through the door and were immediately faced with every available surface, completely covered with pieces John had obtained, and all with his own handwritten labels. John was always happy sharing his knowledge with visitors and clients and ‘Books Afloat’ became a landmark in the community and a much-loved and respected figure within it. Always a true gentleman, John continued working in the shop until a couple of weeks before he passed away in 2025.
Mr Ritchie in his shop
Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood are honoured to have been instructed by the family to offer this incredible lifetime collection for auction, continuing to preserve and share John’s passions with future generations.
The John Ritchie Collection of Maritime Antiques and Collectables comes to auction on Tuesday 23rd May. View the catalogue here.
