Cataloguer & Admin, Watches

About The Bonhams Network

Founded in 1793, Bonhams is a global network of auction houses, with the largest number of international salerooms, offering the widest range of collecting categories and selling at all price points. Bonhams is recognised for its bespoke service, and a dedication to local market relationships, enhanced by a global platform. With 14 salerooms, Bonhams presents over 1,000 sales annually, across more than 60 specialist categories, including fine art, collectables, luxury, wine & spirits, and collector cars. In 2022, Bonhams added four international auction houses to its network: Bukowskis (Stockholm), Bruun Rasmussen (Copenhagen), Cornette de Saint Cyr (Paris and Brussels), and Skinner (Massachusetts). The success of Bonhams’ global strategy is a result of recognising the shift in growing intercontinental buying and increased digital engagement.

About The Department

Bonhams Paris holds several watch sales a year, either online or live, whilst also working on private sales. We also work closely with our colleagues in London to assist with their sales.

About The Role

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• Conduct client valuations at the front counter, and specific visits and valuation days as and when necessary.
• Provide expert advice for Bonhams customers on the sale viewing.
• Assist with the cataloguing and preparation of the catalogue on a timely basis to meet printing and distribution deadlines.
• Assist with the compilation of condition reports.
• Assist with the preparation of promotional material to promote and enhance the activities of the department.
• Maintain and develop the database of both buyers and vendors and ensuring the relevant information is updated.
• Support the team on sale days on all aspects of the auction procedure.
• Maintain close contact with private and trade clients to promote and develop the department.
• Support the Head of Department with initiatives for advertising and marketing.
• As and when necessary attend relevant functions within Bonhams to promote the department.
• Support the Head of department with strategies to further the future development of the watches department at Bonhams.
• Attend relevant functions outside Bonhams to promote the department.
• Oversee post-sale shipping of sold items.
• Manage clients and their property throughout the sale cycle, including receipting property into A3, generating and issuing consignment contracts, requesting and uploading client details and payment management.
• Work with the Department Director to input all cataloguing into A3.
• Coordinate with the different Specialists/Representatives based either in Paris, London or in European countries and also work closely with the valuation department.
• Act as the Department’s primary contact for a range of external stakeholders including clients, restorers and suppliers, liaising with your Specialist team when required.
• Coordinate the movement of property throughout the sale cycle, working with regional offices, Shipping, Operations & Photography to ensure efficient and compliant stock transfer.
• Work with Client Services, Operations and Shipping to support clients with after sale enquiries, including the resolution of payments and arranging shipping quotes for both purchased and unsold lots.
• Support your department's preparing valuations, condition reports and condition photography as required.
• Support in the day-to-day auction activities and ensure the Department has all it needs to run smoothly and effectively. Tasks will include responding to client enquiries pre and post-sale, bidding and event management.
• May also be asked to coordinate other auctions depending on the sale calendar.

Key Skills and Experience

• Strong time management and organisational ability.
• Excellent communication skills both internal and external.
• Excellent grasp of English and French.
• Ability to manage, organise and prioritise workflow in a fast-moving environment.
• Flexible approach and willingness to support departments and teams outside of core responsibilities (teamwork).
• Previous experience in the world of watches (not necessarily from an auction background).

Benefits

• Travel Allowance
• Learning and Training Funding Programme
• Welfare and Retirement Plans

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.