Question from a reader:
I have a question about the antique ledger. The antique ledger I purchased from the police will soon be unusable, so I bought a new one online. The old ledger has the name of the nearest police station and the date written on it, but the ledger I bought online does not have that. Do I need
to go to the nearest police station every time I buy a new ledger and have them write “Reiwa ○ year ○○ Police Station” on it?

Considering the Antique Ledger and Its Legal Aspects

For those running antique businesses, the antique ledger is an essential item. Today, I will delve into the importance and legal aspects of the antique ledger while answering a reader’s question.

What is an Antique Ledger?

First, let’s review what an antique ledger is. Simply put, it is a book used to manage records of transactions involving antiques. This includes details of purchased items and information about the parties to whom items were sold. Since this is an industry that requires police oversight, antique dealers are obligated to manage this ledger accurately and submit it when necessary.

Obtaining a New Antique Ledger

Now, back to the question. You mentioned that you purchased a new antique ledger, but the one bought online does not have the police station name or date written on it. Indeed, when antique dealers start using a new ledger, they may need to go to the nearest police station to have the necessary information filled in, just like with the previous ledger. To conclude, it is generally recommended that when using a new antique ledger, you should report to the nearest police station and have them fill in the required information. This is important because the registration as an antique dealer is done with the police, and following the proper procedures is a crucial measure to avoid legal troubles.

The Importance of the Antique Ledger

Let’s consider why the antique ledger is important. First and foremost, it is a legal obligation. Antique dealers must manage their antique ledgers properly in accordance with the Antique Business Law. If there are deficiencies in the ledger, the worst-case scenario could involve business suspension or fines. Furthermore, the antique ledger is a vital tool for maintaining transparency in transactions. If the details of the business partners and transaction contents are clearly recorded, they can serve as evidence in case of any troubles. For example, if an issue arises with a purchased item, having the details recorded in the ledger can prove how that item was acquired.

Specific Procedures and Points to Note

So, how should you proceed with the specific procedures? When you purchase a new antique ledger, it is important to first contact the nearest police station to confirm what procedures are necessary. Depending on the situation, you may also need to update your registration information as an antique dealer. From my personal experience, I find that the procedures at the police station can sometimes feel a bit cumbersome. However, considering that taking this step can help avoid significant troubles in the future, I believe it is worth the effort. Generally, the staff at the police station are polite and often answer even minor questions kindly.

Consider Aftercare

Additionally, when renewing your antique ledger, don’t forget about aftercare. You need to record the information of your business partners and transaction details in the new ledger as you go. Neglecting this could lead to significant problems later on, so caution is necessary. While I am not an antique dealer myself, I have heard from acquaintances that managing the ledger is extremely important. Keeping accurate records of daily transactions can help you respond smoothly to inquiries from the tax office. This is also one of the necessary measures for us to comply with the law.

Conclusion

The antique ledger is an indispensable part of operating as an antique dealer, and its management is a legal obligation. When you purchase a new ledger, you are required to go to the nearest police station to complete the necessary procedures. It may feel tedious, but by not skimping on this effort, you can avoid future troubles. Understanding the legal aspects and acting appropriately is the first step toward becoming a successful antique dealer. Of course, there are various rules in the world of antique dealing, but understanding them allows for smoother operations. By complying with the law and striving for transparent transactions, you can conduct a highly reliable business. If you have any other concerns, please feel free to ask. I would like to answer as much as possible from the perspectives of law and psychology.