The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ANTIQUES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
N
T
I
Q
U
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "old things" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case old things = antiques.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ANTIQUES mean?
ANTIQUES noun- A grotesque representation of a figure; a gargoyle.
- A caricature.
- (often in plural) A ludicrous gesture or act; ridiculous behaviour; caper.
- A grotesque performer or clown, buffoon.
- A pose, often exaggerated, in anticipation of an action; for example, a brief squat before jumping
- In general, anything very old; specifically:
- A style of type of thick and bold face in which all lines are of equal or nearly equal thickness.
- To search or shop for antiques.
- To make an object appear to be an antique in some way.
- To emboss without gilding.