The Wells County Chamber of Commerce staff and Ambassadors are delighted to welcome a new business to our community, Premier Clock and Vacuum Service, located at 130 West Market Street in Bluffton. Owned and operated by Robert Vanover, this establishment specializes in antique, vintage, and contemporary clock and vacuum cleaner repair and restoration.

Pictured in the photo from left are Chandler Gerber of the City of Bluffton, Ben Renkenberger of United Way of Wells County, Katherine Frauhiger and Patricia Cousins of Premier Clock and Vacuum Service, Doug Brown of News-Banner, Heather Morgan of National Oil & Gas, Robert Vanover of Premier Clock and Vacuum Service, Mike Lautzenheiser of Bluffton NOW, Taylor Vanover and Conor Stephens of Premier Clock and Vacuum Service, Jayde Ketring of First Bank of Berne,, Danielle Thompson of Flagstar Bank,, Kevin Sills of Farm Bureau Insurance, Rachel Reinhard of Grace & Mercy Transitional Housing and Wells County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Erin Prible. (Photo submitted)

Robert’s passion for the intricate workings of vintage vacuum cleaners began at the tender age of eight. He would disassemble and attempt to repair various appliances, starting with a mixer when he was just nine years old. His early fascination with mechanical devices grew into a lifelong commitment to understanding their inner mechanisms, from dishwashers to dryers and, most notably, vacuum cleaners.

Over the years, Robert expanded his collection of vacuum cleaners and honed his repair skills. He now repairs and sells a wide range of vacuum cleaner models, including those dating back to 1929. His personal collection even includes a functioning vacuum cleaner from 1908, a testament to his repair expertise.

Robert’s love for antique clocks developed about 12 years ago, and he began collecting and repairing them. One of his proudest achievements was successfully repairing his very first clock with two broken springs. His skills were further refined during his tenure at the Clock Shoppe in Waynedale, under the guidance of owner Jim and Laurel Hansen. Robert’s dedication and expertise eventually led him to establish his own business, focusing on clocks and vacuum cleaners.

At Premier Clock and Vacuum Service, Robert specializes in the repair and restoration of antique clocks, some of which are over a century old. The clockmaking profession involves not just repairing but also preserving these timeless pieces of history. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a hidden gem discovered at a secondhand store, Robert can clean, oil, and bring new life to these special treasures.

Robert’s choice to establish his business in Bluffton goes beyond convenience or marketing strategies; it’s a reflection of his deep family roots in the community. His grandparents settled in Bluffton in 1964, and his brother, Michael, currently serves as a county commissioner. With a genuine commitment to the community, Robert aspires to be a valuable asset to Bluffton and its residents.

Premier Clock and Vacuum Service operates from Monday through Friday, with Tuesdays being their designated day off. Their business hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can find more information about Premier Clock and Vacuum Service on Facebook, their website at premier-vac.com, and on Yelp and Google.