How can I "legitimize" my watches for eventual sale?

[Dudley1936]

Hello all,

I have been an admirer of vintage Rolex watches for many years. I have reached the point in life where I want to liquidate some of the ones I have accumulated (for the benefit of my eventual heirs). My problem is that I have only ever been a buyer, so I have no credibility as a seller. I would prefer not to sell to dealers or via auction houses. I have not been able to find a dealer who would be willing to give me a "certificate of authenticity" or something similar. One thought that I have is to get insurance appraisals for the pieces (15 to 20) which I would like to sell, in order to establish that they are genuine.

Would this give comfort to prospective buyers, or would it be a wasted effort?

If this would help in the selling process, can anyone recommend a London-based appraiser?

Thanks for your thoughts,
Joel