Art, watches, rare objects: why keep an inventory of your collection

A collection is rarely built all at once. A work bought on a trip, a watch inherited, an object found at an antique dealer. Years later, the whole has gained value, yet nobody knows exactly what it contains.

That is where the difficulties begin.

Insuring. An insurer asks for a precise description and often a recent valuation. Without documents, cover may be poorly calibrated, and a claim hard to prove.

Passing on. Heirs sometimes discover a collection without knowing its history, provenance or value. Sharing it becomes a source of uncertainty.

Selling. A serious buyer asks for invoices, certificates and the history of owners. A piece without a file sells less well, or not at all.

A well-kept inventory meets all three needs. For each piece it includes: a description and photos, the date and place of purchase, invoices and certificates, known provenance, condition and, where relevant, the latest valuation by an expert.

Three tips to get started. Begin with the most important pieces rather than aiming for completeness. Keep originals somewhere safe and digital copies elsewhere. Update the inventory with every purchase, loan or restoration.

Valuation remains the work of independent experts, each specialised in a field. Insurance is a matter for your insurer or broker.

MAPA Collectibles, offered on request, organises this work: a documented inventory, coordination of experts, liaison with your insurer, storage and transport by specialists. MAPA neither buys nor sells any piece. Its role is to document, coordinate and protect.