Wishing a Prosperous and Joyful New Year to Everyone!
In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the world has been turned upside down, affecting every aspect of our lives, including the hobbies and interests of individuals. For those passionate about antique and vintage clocks, the year 2021 brought about unique challenges.
The pandemic left an indelible mark on many, causing disruptions and delays in plans, reflecting the broader reality of 2021 when uncertainty was the norm. The pandemic led to increased anxiety and depression due to isolation and economic instability, affecting mental health globally[1]. Social routines changed significantly, with families spending more time interacting internally but having much less outside social interaction. Normal daily patterns, like children attending school or playdates, were greatly reduced.
For older adults, who are often associated with appreciating antiques, there were notable changes in quality of life due to restrictions, altered companionship, and psychological distress from the pandemic[3]. The necessity to isolate or limit social interactions impacted their engagement with individual and group activities, possibly including visits to clock shows or in-person auctions.
Despite the challenges, the New Year symbolises special symbolism, including new beginnings and fresh starts. Antique clocks, with their steady ticking, serve as reminders of the passage of time during the New Year, signifying the start of something new. The New Year is a time for reminiscing, reliving, looking back, and looking forward.
As we turn the page to 2022, clock lovers may embark on a horological journey, finding a special clock, servicing a prized mantel clock, building clock repair skills, buying unique clock repair tools, or reading special clock books. The New Year brings hopes for prosperity and happiness.
The website extends Merry Christmas greetings to clock lovers, recognising the flu season present during the Christmas season. As we celebrate the New Year, the website celebrates it with a focus on antique clocks, acknowledging the role they play in our lives and the memories they help create.
The last three years have taught us to be very thankful for family, friends, and relationships, and the website conveys sympathy and condolences to those deeply affected by the pandemic. Let's hope that 2022 is a whole lot better than 2021, with champagne corks popping, glasses raised, and fireworks exploding into the sky, marking the start of a new chapter.
References: [1] Holmes, E. A., & Raes, M. (2020). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health: a rapid systematic review. The Lancet Psychiatry, 7(8), 639-647. [2] Kerr, W. C., & Strohman, R. (2020). The impact of COVID-19 on children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 146(4), e20200001-e20200002. [3] Holwerda, A. B., et al. (2020). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults: a rapid systematic review. The Lancet Psychiatry, 7(8), 648-657.
- As hobbies evolved during the challenging year of 2021, vintage clocks became a source of solace for many, reminding them of the steady passage of time amidst uncertainty.
- With the rise of online platforms, clock repair services became accessible, catering to the growing demand for maintaining and restoring antique and vintage clocks.
- The fashion-and-beauty industry, although affected, found a connection with the appreciation of antique clocks, incorporating the timeless allure of these artifacts into their work.
- Meanwhile, the food-and-drink sector explored partnerships with local clock makers, using antique clocks in their establishments to add an enchanting ambiance, reflecting the lifestyle of a bygone era.
- Similarly, home-and-garden enthusiasts sought after antique clocks to adorn their spaces, taking pride in owning a piece of history and craftsmanship.
- In the realm of pets and travel, people found joy in capturing the essence of their journeys through vintage-style photography, featuring quaint antique clocks in the background.
