A Life With Antique Clocks

Step into the private world of Derek Roberts, an eminent antique clock dealer since the 1960s to the present who has written eight books covering many aspects of the subject. Revisit an era when clocks, and antiques in general, were plentiful and modestly priced and compare with today, when good examples are difficult to find and higher priced. Clear advice is given on buying and selling clocks, including buying, researching, restoring, and conserving, and then documenting them prior to sale. Pitfalls are discussed, with examples of problems that may be encountered and mistakes made, some of which have a humorous element. All the factors that effect running an antiques business, such as VAT, Import Tax, Capital Gains Tax (clocks are exempt), recessions, bank interest rates, staff, and many others are discussed. Above all, the book exposes the knowledge, and pleasure to be gained upon entering this intriguing world. Some of the rare and fascinating clocks that have passed through the author's hands are illustrated.