When a much-loved trophy is damaged, missing, or too valuable to travel, you have three main routes: replica, replacement, or restoration. This guide explains the differences, when to choose each option, indicative costs and timelines, and what we need to quote accurately.
Quick definitions
- Replica
A newly made copy that matches the look and feel of the original. Used when the original is lost, insured in storage, or unsafe to tour. Can be sterling silver, plated, brass/bronze, or mixed media. - Replacement
A new trophy that does not need to match the original exactly, often a current catalogue piece customised with engraving/crests. Used when speed or budget is key. - Restoration
Skilled repair and conservation of the original trophy, straightening, soldering, chasing, repolishing, re-plating, replacing missing parts sympathetically, and preserving patina.
Side-by-side comparison
|
Factor |
Replica |
Replacement |
Restoration |
|
What you get |
New copy of the original |
New design (doesn’t match) |
Original trophy repaired |
|
Best for |
Lost/fragile icons; touring |
Awards; lower budgets |
Historic or sentimental pieces |
|
Reminiscent in style |
High (like-for-like possible) |
Chosen style; reminiscent in style |
The original, sympathetically finished |
|
Lead time (typical) |
3–12+ weeks (complexity-dependent) |
10 days (stock) / 2–4 weeks (customise) |
1–8+ weeks (depends on damage) |
|
Budget guide* |
Starting from £500–£20,000+ |
£120–£900+ |
£500–£2,500+ |
|
Legal/permissions |
May be required for protected designs |
Usually none |
Not needed |
|
Engraving |
By hand or machine, logos, text, historic winners & year plates |
Hand/machine; crests & year plates |
Clean/recut as needed |
*These are very broad ranges, final quotes depend on size, metal, detail, engraving and deadlines.
When to choose a replica
Choose a replica if:
- The original is too valuable or fragile to travel or be handled.
- You need multiple identical trophies for winners while the original stays in one place.
- The original is missing and you have photos/dimensions to work from.
- If Insurance requires a touring replica.
What we’ll ask for: photos (front/side/detail), dimensions.
When to choose a replacement
Choose a replacement if:
- You need something quickly for an event.
- The original design is not important to keep.
- Budget is the main driver.
We’ll suggest catalogue styles or semi-custom made, then personalise with engraving, logo or plaques to keep continuity with past winners. A replacement could be a stock piece or custom designed.
When to choose restoration
Choose restoration if:
- The trophy has historic significance or sentimental value and must remain the original piece.
- Damage is localised (dents, loose handles, broken solder joints).
- The surface needs re-plating or refinishing but the form is intact.
Typical work includes disassembly, straightening, soldering, chasing (re-sharpening detail), filing and polishing, then silver plating or hallmark-sensitive finishing. We preserve period character and patina where appropriate.
Legal & permissions (important but simple)
We tend to work with major sporting events, but on occassion this information is needed.
- Replica: some designs, names and crests are protected by trademarks, design rights or copyright. Share what you’d like to reproduce; we’ll advise on permissions or offer an inspired alternative that respects rights.
- Replacement/Restoration: generally fine, o reproduction of protected designs.
Decision checklist (quick guide)
- Is keeping the original object essential? → Restoration
- Is an exact or near-exact look needed but the original can’t be used? → Replica
- Is speed/budget key and a new design is acceptable? → Replacement
- Unsure? Send photos and we’ll recommend the best route (and why).
You can see examples of our work on the relevant pages:
Ready to choose the right route?
If you would like to discuss a special project or trophy please email [email protected] or call 01892 752 211. Share photos, dimensions and your deadline, our silversmiths will assess and send options with fixed pricing.
Frequently asked Questions on Trophies
Can you work from a single photo for a replica?
Often yes, if we can infer scale. Extra angles and measurements improve accuracy.
Will restoration remove engravings or dates?
No. We protect inscriptions; where necessary we can carefully re-cut softened lettering.
Can a replacement still feel special?
Absolutely, quality forms with hand or machine engraving, crest plaques and a timber/stone base look premium and consistent.
How do I get a replica trophy?
Short answer: send us photos, sizes and your deadline—we’ll confirm permissions (if needed), propose materials, quote, and schedule the build.
Step-by-step
- Share references – front/side/detail photos; anything with scale (ruler or A4 sheet).
- Give dimensions – overall height, max diameter, base width/height.
- Tell us preferences – sterling silver / silver plate / brass or bronze; polished, satin or antiqued finish.
- Engraving – text layout and any crest/logo (vector if possible: SVG/AI/EPS; a clear PNG also works).
- Permissions check – if the design/name is protected, we’ll advise on approvals or an inspired alternative.
- Quote & timeline – fixed price and lead time (simple 3–5 weeks; ornate/large 8–12+ weeks).
- Approval & deposit – we lock materials and workshop time.
- Make & engrave – spin/cast/fabricate, assemble, plate/hallmark, then engrave.
- Delivery – insured shipping; optional fitted case and valuation letter.
What helps us quote fast
- Clear, well-lit photos (including close-ups of handles/finials/plaques)
- Any known history or maker’s marks
- Event/deadline and delivery address
Typical investment (guide only)
- Silver-plated cup 25–35 cm: £700–£1,500
- Sterling silver equivalent: £1,800–£4,500+
(Complex, sculptural or heritage pieces quoted after assessment.)
