Watch Specialist

About Bonhams

Founded in 1793, Bonhams is one of the world’s leading auction houses, known for its prestigious heritage, expert specialists, and global reach. With flagship salerooms in London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, and Hong Kong, we offer more than 400 sales annually across over 60 specialist categories—from fine art and classic cars to jewellery and luxury watches. Our commitment to expertise, client service, and innovation continues to drive our growth as a modern, global auction house.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Watches Specialist to help grow and support the success of Bonhams' Watches department across the United States (US). This role is ideal for a horology expert with a deep understanding of the global watch market and a strong network of private and trade contacts. You will be responsible for sourcing consignments, providing valuations, managing client relationships, and contributing to the ongoing growth of watch sales both at auction and through private sales.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• Identify, source, and secure valuable watch consignments for auction and private sale, meeting individual revenue targets.


• Demonstrate an authentic passion for horology by engaging clients with expert knowledge of timepieces, brand heritage, and craftsmanship, fostering trust and enthusiasm for each piece.


• Cultivate and manage long-term relationships with private collectors, estates, dealers, and trade clients across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Americas.


• Provide accurate and detailed valuations for auction, private sale, insurance, and fair market purposes.


• Collaborate with the Head of Watches and global team to develop sales strategies, pitches, and marketing materials.


• Work closely with internal departments to prepare and deliver successful, innovative, and profitable sales.


• Represent Bonhams at client meetings, valuation days, and events, acting as an ambassador for the Watches department.


• Work collaboratively with the US Watches, Jewelry and Marketing teams to develop sales exhibitions and events.


• Stay informed about trends and developments in the watch market to inform pricing, authentication, and client guidance.

In addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your Manager.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of specialized experience in the appraisal, authentication, and cataloging of fine timepieces, with a deep understanding of vintage and contemporary watch markets.


• Deep knowledge of vintage and contemporary timepieces, key brands, and market trends.


• Proven track record of winning consignments and building lasting client relationships.


• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to meet and exceed sales targets.


• Excellent valuation, negotiation, and cataloguing skills.


• Discreet and professional approach to high-value transactions.


• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.


• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); CRM or auction systems experience a plus.


• Regular travel throughout the US and Internationally for client visits, events, and sales.

What we offer

In addition to an active and progressive work environment, Bonhams offers competitive benefits package to encourage work/life balance, including:

• Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance – HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA


• 20 days paid time off (PTO)


• 12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day


• 16 weeks fully paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements


• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution


• Life insurance with AD & D


• Short- and long-term disability


• Paid cellphone and data service


• Tuition reimbursement


• Commuter benefits (transit and parking)


• Employee assistance program (EAP)


• Professional development: free online training and expansive content library


• Onboarding buddy: 90-day mentor to welcome and orient new joiners


• Employee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship program

Bonhams participates in E-Verify.

Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted. We appreciate your interest in Bonhams and hope you will monitor our careers site for future opportunities.  

Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.