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Monthly December 2010

Jottings The last weeks of the year are always the most difficult to come to

grips with. Every job has to be ready before you close, go on holiday, have a

few days off or keep working whilst pretending you are not there. We make

promises we can’t keep, every job is a problem and parts ordered are

certain not to arrive on time. The statistics which say we do 30% of our

annual business in the last two weeks makes it easy to understand why our stress

levels increase. The amazing thing is it has always been this way. Why do we keep

coming back for more?

Because deep down we must enjoy it! Many of our “fondest” memories relate to

incidents occurring at this time of year. This brings me to the last meeting of the year

for the WCA which was Nostalgia Night, when those at the well attended meeting got

to share their memories. Remembering the “Characters”, the businesses and the

memorable moments was a great experience. I have been around for over 50 years

but there were others who had a few years up on me so you can imagine the stories

being aired. How many know for example that we have an Olympian in our midst or

that a song was written about a watchmaker (a well known identity) telling the story of

an “incident” which occurred? Hundreds of photos were on display reminding us that

brown hair was the norm and the embarrassing realization I was born with a

microphone glued to my mouth. The trade has a history worth preserving but sadly

many of those who could have contributed are no longer with us. Maybe those who are

still around can plumb the depths so at long last some history can be put into book

form and preserved for future generations. All contributions from interested parties will

be most welcome. Thank-you for you support over the past twelve months, we look

forward to more of the same during the coming year.

From all at Smith and Smith, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

CLOCKS

How easy is it to start your watch collection? This

article by Ian Beilby is a “must read” if you want to start properly. Bob

Loomes MoD has done it again. Walking the dog, understandable.

Playing football, yes they still remember but come on Robert,

SUNBATHE !, I would like to see that. Only kidding of course but what a

great article. Only in England can you find a Barton-in-the-Beans which

is where you will find the Deacons, why is this so? Come on, spend

$10.50 and get the knowledge.

Level 1, 36 York St. Sydney 2000

Phone : 02 9290 - 2922 Fax : 02 9299 - 3400 Web : www.smithnsmith.com.au