James Dowling boasts over 40 years of experience working with and enjoying watches. He holds the distinction of being one of the founders, and former editor-in-chief of the esteemed watch forum, Timezone, where he also moderated both its modern and vintage Rolex forums. Dowling’s extensive experience in the horological world has afforded him invaluable insights into the intricate details of timepieces, particularly those crafted by Rolex.
As a prominent figure within the watch community, his expertise and passion for horology and collecting shine through in his many contributions to the pastime.
Alongside friend and fellow watch aficionado, Jeffrey Hess, he co-authored the book “The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches”, which expertly captured the beauty of Rolex timepieces through stunning full-colour photography. Their images complement the most comprehensive and detailed history ever written about the company, offering readers a visually captivating and informative journey through Rolex’s lengthy and illustrious legacy.
BQ Watches will be able to call on his unparalleled knowledge of vintage watches, as he will be vetting and certifying our vintage timepieces, which will all now come with a certificate signed by James, after he has physically examined the case, dial, movement and bracelet of every watch in the program. James will be working with, not for, BQ Watches where his independence is as important to James as it is to everyone who buys a watch examined and certified by him.
As an avid collector with a passion for horology, James’s fascination with watches began more than four decades ago, sparking a journey that led him into the world of timepiece collecting and trading, earning him the sobriquet ‘Mr Rolex’. Over the years, his interest in watches evolved from a mere curiosity into an active involvement in buying, selling and collecting these horological treasures.
This deep dive into the intricacies of timepieces not only honed his discerning eye for quality and craftsmanship, but also fostered a profound appreciation for the creativity and innovation inherent in watchmaking and in its history. With each acquisition and transaction, James’s knowledge and expertise in the realm of watches grew, solidifying his reputation as a seasoned collector and connoisseur in the horological community, with a passion for research and a dedication to spreading the results of his research as widely as possible.
His areas of interest are vintage and military timepieces and he is acknowledged as an authority on Rolex within the industry. He has been a moderator of several online watch forums and has written on watches and collecting for magazines and newspapers on every continent except South America and Antarctica.
He gave the 1999 Dingwall Beloe, Worshipful Company of Clockmakers Lecture at the British Museum, he is a Member of the Academy of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève and a member of the committee of the 2023/24 Louis Vuitton Prize for Independent Watchmaking.
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Independent Verification Program, aimed at providing comprehensive assessments of timepieces. Through this program, we meticulously evaluate each item, providing clarity on which components are original and identifying any parts that have been replaced over the watch’s lifetime.
Our commitment to transparency ensures that collectors and enthusiasts alike can make informed decisions with confidence, knowing the precise history and integrity of their timepieces.
BQ Watches is proud to offer a comprehensive certification service for vintage items purchased from our stock. We understand the importance of authenticity and peace of mind when acquiring a timepiece with historical significance. Our certification process provides thorough verification of each vintage watch’s authenticity and originality. This meticulous assessment ensures that buyers can trust the integrity of their investment.
For an additional cost, customers can opt to receive a certificate of authenticity signed by our renowned expert, adding an extra layer of assurance to their purchase. This certificate serves as tangible evidence of the watch’s provenance and adherence to quality standards.
At BQ Watches, we prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction. By offering certification services, we aim to empower buyers to make informed decisions and invest confidently in their chosen timepieces. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, our certification process guarantees a seamless and trustworthy purchasing experience.
To obtain your certificate of authenticity today, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you every step of the way.
Get in touch with the team at BQ Watches today to get your very own Certificate of Authenticity today. We have a vast inventory of pre-owned luxury and vintage watches, and we’re ready to help you find your ideal timepiece. If you don’t see the watch you want in our current inventory, be sure to let our team know. We have comprehensive sourcing services to help you find your dream watch.
