On In London Interviews Spencer Dryer, Director of BQ Watches
BQ Watches is a trusted UK-based luxury watch dealer that specialises in buying, selling, and trading high-end timepieces. With over 30 years of experience, the company offers a wide range of pre-owned and vintage watches from top brands like Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and Patek Philippe. Known for its commitment to quality and authenticity, BQ Watches also provides expert services such as watch valuations, repairs, and sourcing rare models. Every watch is carefully inspected and often comes with a warranty, giving customers confidence and peace of mind when purchasing. We spoke to Director, Spencer Dryer to find out more
What first sparked your interest in watches?
I’ve always been fascinated by objects that combine engineering and artistry. Watches are mechanical marvels – tiny machines that can outlive generations if cared for properly. For me, the spark came when I was young, seeing how a well-made timepiece wasn’t just functional, but a statement of taste and identity. I recall handling my first Rolex Submariner during my early career and being struck by its weight, precision, and aura. From that point, watches weren’t just accessories in my eyes – they were investments and heirlooms.
Was there a particular moment or experience that inspired you to start BQ Watches?
It grew organically. I began my career in jewellery and quickly realised that, while people appreciated diamonds and gold, there was something about watches that captivated them more deeply. Clients would light up talking about a watch they’d inherited or a model they were chasing. I saw the secondary watch market starting to take off and felt there was a gap for a trusted, transparent business in that space. That’s what drove me to establish BQ Watches.
Can you share the story behind the name BQ Watches?
BQ actually stands for “Best Quality.” It’s a simple name, but it says exactly what we set out to deliver. When we transitioned from jewellery into specialising in watches, it felt natural to carry that principle through – best quality watches, best quality service, and best quality advice.
Did you always know you wanted to run your own business, or did this idea grow over time?
The entrepreneurial streak was always there. Even in the early days, I had ideas about how things could work differently – more client-focused, less transactional. But running your own business isn’t something you plan in one moment. It grew over time, from spotting opportunities, listening to customers, and wanting to build something of my own rather than following someone else’s rulebook.
How did you take BQ Watches from an idea to a reality?
In the early days, BQ Watches was a B2B business – we supplied other jewelers and dealers rather than selling directly to the public. That changed during the COVID pandemic, when jewellers were forced to close their doors due to social distancing restrictions. Overnight, demand shifted online, and we saw an opportunity to serve customers directly. From there, our B2C business grew rapidly, supported by our reputation for trust and expertise.
What were some of the biggest challenges in the early days, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was credibility. When you’re dealing with items worth £10,000, £20,000, sometimes £100,000 or more, people need to know they can trust you. We overcame that by being utterly transparent – every watch authenticated, every detail explained. We built processes to ensure clients had total peace of mind, and we backed it up with guarantees. Over time, consistency built credibility.
What’s been your proudest milestone so far in BQ’s journey?
Without doubt, one of the proudest milestones was completing our first £1m sale in July 2024 – a Patek Philippe 1518J, manufactured in 1947. The 1518J is one of the most historically essential wristwatches ever made: the first perpetual calendar chronograph ever produced in series. It’s a collector’s dream piece, and being entrusted to handle such a watch was both humbling and a massive endorsement of the trust our clients place in us.
What makes BQ Watches different from other watch retailers?
We’re not about hype or quick turnover. We’re about relationships and trust. Unlike some marketplaces, every watch that comes through our hands is inspected, serviced if necessary, and backed by a 24-month warranty. We don’t just sell watches – we advise clients, whether they’re first-time buyers or seasoned collectors. And because we’re independent, we’re not tied to pushing certain brands. We’re advocates for the client, not the manufacturer.
How would you describe the brand’s mission?
Our mission is simple: to make buying and selling luxury watches as safe, transparent, and enjoyable as it should be. Whether someone is investing in their first Rolex or parting with a Patek Philippe they’ve owned for years, our job is to ensure they feel informed, confident, and looked after at every stage.
How important is authenticity and trust in the luxury watch market?
It’s everything. In this industry, you’re not just buying steel and gold – you’re buying history, craftsmanship, and value. One bad experience with a counterfeit or misrepresented watch can scar a client forever. That’s why we put authenticity at the centre of our business. Every watch is examined, verified, and guaranteed. We know our reputation is only as strong as the last watch we sold.
What trends are you noticing in the luxury watch industry?
There are a few clear ones. First, younger buyers are entering the market, particularly looking at versatile models like the Rolex Datejust or Cartier Santos – watches that blend investment potential with everyday wear. Second, coloured dials, especially green and blue, remain in high demand. And third, we’re seeing a shift toward viewing watches not just as status symbols but as long-term assets, much like art or wine. The secondary market is maturing, and clients are becoming increasingly informed – they want the story behind the watch as much as they want the watch itself.
