Watches & Clocks Auctions

Selling watches at auction

You do not need to know the model, age or value of a watch before asking for advice. Send clear photographs and share what you know about its history, condition and any servicing or repairs.

Our department handles watches by names including Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Patek Philippe. A maker’s name is a starting point: the particular model, condition and supporting details all matter when assessing a watch for sale.

An auction estimate is a guide to what a watch may achieve at sale, rather than a guaranteed price. We’ll discuss the estimate, reserve options and applicable fees before you decide to consign.

Wristwatches, pocket watches and clocks

Modern and vintage wristwatches

Our sales include dress watches, sports watches and chronographs, in precious metal and stainless steel. Watches may appeal for their design, age, movement or a particular reference. Read more about selling a wristwatch at auction, or contact the department to discuss your watch.

Rolex and other recognised makers

Our published highlights include Rolex GMT-Master, Daytona and Sea-Dweller wristwatches, alongside a gold Heuer Carrera chronograph. These illustrate the range previously handled, rather than a promise of what another example will achieve.

Pocket watches

We welcome enquiries about pocket watches as well as wristwatches. Include photographs of the dial, case and any visible marks, together with any boxes, chains or records that accompany the watch. Do not force a case open to obtain a photograph.

Antique and collectable clocks

Clocks remain part of this department’s remit. Our published highlights include an early Victorian bracket clock. Send photographs showing the whole clock, dial, case and accessible maker’s marks, and tell us about any pendulum, key or other parts supplied with it.

Collections and inherited timepieces

If you have several watches or clocks, begin with an overview photograph and a short list. You do not need to identify every item first. Where an estate requires a formal assessment, our probate and insurance valuation service is a separate route from a free auction estimate.

What affects a watch’s auction estimate?

Two watches by the same maker can attract very different levels of interest. An assessment considers the complete watch and the available evidence about it.

Model and reference. The maker, model, reference and production period help establish what is being offered. Supply any details you already have; you do not need to dismantle the watch to find them.

Condition and alterations. Dial, hands, case, bracelet and movement all need consideration. Tell us about known replacement parts, repairs, polishing or other changes. Ask for advice before arranging restoration solely for sale.

Movement and operation. Tell us whether the watch runs and whether you know of any faults. Running at the time of inspection does not establish accuracy, water resistance or a complete service history.

Boxes and paperwork. Original packaging, purchase records, guarantees and servicing documents can help with research and cataloguing. You can still enquire if these are missing.

History and market demand. Relevant ownership history and demand for comparable watches help inform the estimate. Previous results are context, not a valuation of your watch.

How to sell your watch

1. Send photographs and details

Use our online auction estimate form. Show the dial, case back, bracelet or strap, clasp and any visible marks. Include photographs of accompanying documents, but keep personal information and full serial numbers out of public posts.

2. Arrange a closer assessment

The team can advise whether an in-person examination is needed. Contact us about an appointment at our Suffolk or Norfolk saleroom, and read our valuation options. Do not send a valuable watch by post before agreeing the arrangements with us.

3. Agree the sale arrangements

We’ll discuss the estimate, any reserve and the appropriate sale route. Once consigned, the watch can be photographed and catalogued for potential buyers to review.

4. Receive the outcome

You’ll be notified when your item is published and when it sells. Settlement is made by bank transfer after the sale, subject to the agreed terms. See our selling guide for the process, standard commission and lotting charges.

Buying watches and clocks at auction

Read the individual catalogue entry, photographs and condition information before bidding. Check the stated reference, case dimensions, materials and what is included with the lot. Ask about any point that affects your decision.

For vintage watches, examine the description for information about alterations and replacement parts. For clocks, check dimensions, accessories and collection arrangements. A catalogue description should not be treated as a service guarantee.

Viewing dates and locations are listed for relevant sales. If you cannot attend, contact the department about a condition report where practical. Our buying guide explains registration, bidding methods, payment and collection.

You can browse a previous jewellery sale featuring watches to explore the range handled. For future sales, contact the team or select Watches & Clocks in the auction alerts form further down this page. Check the fees and terms for your chosen auction before placing a bid.

Questions about selling watches

Can I sell a watch without its box or papers?

Yes, you can enquire without these. Tell us what is missing and supply any purchase or servicing details you do have. The watch will need to be assessed on its own merits.

Can I enquire about a watch that does not work?

Yes. Explain the fault as far as you know it and send photographs. The team can advise on suitability for auction. Ask before spending money on repairs solely to prepare it for sale.

Do you sell clocks as well as watches?

Yes. This department covers clocks, pocket watches and wristwatches. Include dimensions and photographs when enquiring about a clock, and tell us which parts accompany it.

Can you help with an inherited collection?

Contact us about a single inherited watch or a collection. If you need a formal valuation for an estate, use our insurance and probate service and explain the purpose of the valuation.

Who should I contact?

Our department page lists Russell Cole and Michael Steel. Call 01449 673088 or email enquiries@bm-auctions.co.uk to discuss the appropriate assessment.

Request a free watch auction valuation

Send photographs and a few details about your watch or clock using the form below. Include any known model, history, condition issues and accompanying documents, and the team can advise on the next step.