Suggestions on creating springs in Solidworks using measurements taken from helical springs.

Lately, I've found myself needing to create Solidworks spring models from measurements taken from a closed 'n ground variable pitch compression spring of unknown origin. Having no spec's from a manufacturer minimally requires careful metrology to determine pitch breaks/steps, OD, ID, wire size, pitch at any given step, free length and such. It can be an especially daunting task with very small springs. And without substantial care, the process lends itself to error.

Most compression springs I've had to analyze and measure have been rather small variable pitch compression springs with 3-steps.

An example: Taking measurements from little spring shown in C:\Julius\Clock\Little_Spring_Snapshot.jpg, I measured the following across center segment of little spring...

3 spaces and 4 wire diameters = 0.208"
3S + 4D = 0.208"
3S + 4(0.026") = 0.208"
3S = 0.208" - 4(0.026")
3S = 0.104"
S = 0.0347
Pitch is a wire and a space, so...
P = W + S
P = 0.026 + 0.0347
P = 0.061

NUMBERS I FED TO REGION PARMS TO CREATE HELIX...
# P Rev
1 0.027 0
2 0.027 1
3 0.061 1.01
4 0.061 7.99
5 0.027 8.01
6 0.027 9

The resultant Solidworks spring and the actual spring were a a very close match on the free length and other vital stats. So, I think my pitch calc's (above) are spot-on. But I'm not 100% certain. So, the question I'm asking here is:

Is taking measurements and calculating the 0.061" pitch the way I did (over several of the centermost coils) a sound approach?

Things R2 tiny 4 me 2B able 2 get a reliable pitch measurement from one coil to the next.