Arrange your clock assortment using a spreadsheet for efficient management
In the world of antique and vintage clocks, having a well-organized collection is essential for preserving these timepieces and understanding their value. One enthusiast, with over 10 years of experience and a collection of more than 100 clocks, has found a solution using the open-source software LibreOffice Calc.
The author's spreadsheet, named "Clock collection valuation and service schedule," contains a wealth of information about each clock, including the maker, model, country of origin, motion type, original purchase price, current value, year of manufacture, acquisition date, and service history. This comprehensive database allows for efficient sorting, filtering, and analysis of the collection.
To create such a spreadsheet, the author recommends organizing the data in key columns, such as ID or catalog number, make/manufacturer, model/name, type, year or era, material, movement type, dimensions, condition, provenance/history, value/estimate, acquisition date, location, and notes. Additionally, using LibreOffice Calc's features can make the data even more manageable. For example, freezing the header row, applying filters, using conditional formatting, creating separate sheets for different categories, and utilizing data validation can help maintain consistency and ease the process of updating the spreadsheet.
For those who don't have Microsoft Office or refuse to pay for it, the author recommends LibreOffice and its spreadsheet called "Calc Spreadsheet." The author's YouTube video, showcasing their collection of antique and vintage wall clocks, was made in January 2019 and can be found at [link to the YouTube video].
Periodic maintenance is crucial for keeping antique clocks in good working order. New owners might find the need for maintenance surprising, often realizing it when their clock stops and they struggle to get it running again. The author checks the condition of their clocks every 3-4 years to ensure they are in good working order and makes necessary repairs or adjustments.
One example from the author's collection is a Junghans wall clock, C.1899, which is a daily runner. The author's favorite type of clock in the collection is wall clocks, as they offer a wide variety of styles and designs.
For those interested in keeping track of work on their clocks, the author suggests using a spreadsheet like the one they've created. The author's spreadsheet file is accessible from any device with cloud storage, making it easy to update and manage from anywhere.
In summary, using LibreOffice Calc to organize an antique or vintage clock collection can help owners maintain their clocks, understand their value, and keep track of their history. With the author's recommended structure and tips, anyone can create a comprehensive and manageable database for their collection.
- A vintage clock enthusiast, with over a century of clocks and extensive knowledge, has compiled a 'clock collection valuation and service schedule' using LibreOffice Calc, thus preserving the history and worth of each timepiece efficiently.
- For individuals prioritizing 'lifestyle' that includes a 'home-and-garden' focus on antique and vintage wall clocks, maintaining a meticulous database using spreadsheet software like LibreOffice Calc is a suitable strategy for keeping track of each clock's details, value, and service history.
