Business Details
Expert Antique Buyers in NYC
Syl Lee Antiques has been a trusted name in the antique industry for over four decades, offering unparalleled expertise in buying and selling antiques, fine art, collectibles, and jewelry. As a family-owned and operated business, we pride ourselves on our deep-rooted commitment to integrity, personalized service, and a passion for preserving history. Our team, led by Gary Zimmerman and his children Marion, Adam, and Marnie, brings generations of experience and a nuanced understanding of the antique market to every client interaction. We specialize in free in-home evaluations, cash-on-spot purchases, and connecting clients with auction specialists for high-value items.Our services extend across New York City, Long Island, and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut, with a focus on making the selling process seamless and stress-free. Whether youre liquidating an estate or parting with cherished family heirlooms, our team approaches every engagement with empathy, professionalism, and a dedication to fair valuations. Our reputation as one of the leading antique buyers in NYC is built on decades of client trust, industry knowledge, and a commitment to treating every item with the respect it deserves.
Services
Antique Appraisals
Estate Jewelry Buying
Gold & Silver Purchases
Mid-Century Furniture
Art & Collectibles
Asian Antiques
Coin & Watch Valuation
Estate Liquidation
Auction Connections
Home Visits
Highlights and features
- Family-owned business with 40+ years of industry experience
- Free in-home evaluations and cash-on-spot payments
- Specialized expertise in rare antiques and estate items
- Connections with auction specialists for premium valuations
- Compassionate service for estate liquidation needs
Associations and certifications
- Appraisers Association of America
- USPAP Compliant
What people say
Knowledgeable specialists
Fair cash offers
Compassionate service
Free home evaluations
Expertise in rare items
Services
Antique Appraisals
Our expert appraisers provide accurate valuations for antiques, fine art, and collectibles. We specialize in identifying rare items and determining market value through decades of experience and industry connections. Clients receive transparent assessments with no obligation to sell.
Estate Jewelry Buying
We purchase estate jewelry from renowned designers like Cartier, Tiffany, and David Webb. Our specialists evaluate pieces based on craftsmanship, rarity, and market demand, offering competitive cash payments for both fine and costume jewelry.
Mid-Century Furniture
Specializing in American and Danish mid-century modern furniture, we appraise and buy pieces from designers like Eames, Bertoia, and Wegner. Our team identifies valuable items and ensures fair compensation for high-demand vintage designs.
Art & Collectibles
We evaluate oil paintings, contemporary art, and collectibles from artists like Picasso and Dali. Our experts connect clients with auction specialists for premium sales while offering direct purchases for select items.
Estate Liquidation
Our comprehensive estate services include full-home appraisals, itemized valuations, and connections with auctioneers or clean-out specialists. We handle sensitive situations with care, ensuring efficient and respectful liquidation processes.
People
Gary Zimmerman
Founder
Gary Zimmerman founded Syl Lee Antiques over 40 years ago after earning a BFA from Hunter College. His expertise in antique art glass and fine art established the company's reputation for integrity and market knowledge.
Marion Zimmerman Rizzo
Antique Specialist
Marion Zimmerman Rizzo joined the business in the 1990s, bringing expertise in antique appraisal from NYU. She specializes in estate evaluations and community-focused charity appraisals across Long Island.
Adam Zimmerman
CEO
Adam Zimmerman leads with a fresh perspective, combining hospitality management expertise and technology-driven research. Accredited by the Appraisers Association of America, he specializes in jewelry and rare antiques.
Marnie Robbins
Senior Client Liaison
Marnie Robbins provides compassionate support for senior clients, leveraging her patience and understanding to simplify complex estate transactions since joining in 2005.
Questions
What types of antiques do you buy?
We buy nearly all antiques including jewelry, fine art, mid-century furniture, coins, watches, Asian antiquities, and more. See our full list online.
Do you offer free appraisals?
Yes, we provide complimentary in-home evaluations with no obligation to sell across NYC and Long Island.
How quickly can you visit my home?
We typically schedule appointments within 24 hours of contact and offer flexible visit times.
Will you buy partial estates?
We buy individual items or entire estates, with specialists available for large collections.
What payment methods do you use?
We pay in cash on the spot for all purchases during our home visits.
Can you help with auction preparations?
Yes, we connect clients with trusted auction specialists for items that may achieve higher value through bidding.
