Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Art of Watch Collecting Australia ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website and use our services.

This policy applies to all information collected through our website, services, and any related communications. By using our services, you consent to the data practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect the following types of personal information:

• Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address
• Professional Information: Collector status, collection details, investment preferences
• Service Information: Details about timepieces for appraisal, authentication, or management
• Financial Information: Payment information for services (processed securely through third-party providers)
• Communication Records: Records of correspondence, consultation notes, service history

2.2 Technical Information

We automatically collect certain technical information when you visit our website:

• IP address and geolocation data
• Browser type and version
• Device information and operating system
• Website usage data and navigation patterns
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

• Service Provision: To provide watch collecting services including appraisal, authentication, and collection management
• Communication: To respond to inquiries, provide updates, and maintain professional relationships
• Business Operations: To process payments, maintain records, and manage our business operations
• Improvement: To improve our website, services, and customer experience
• Legal Compliance: To comply with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards
• Marketing: To send newsletters and promotional materials (with your consent)
• Security: To protect against fraud, unauthorized access, and other security threats

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: With trusted third-party service providers who assist in our operations (e.g., payment processors, secure storage providers)
• Professional Partners: With restoration craftsmen, insurance companies, or other professionals when required for service delivery
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or government regulation
• Business Transfers: In connection with business mergers, acquisitions, or asset sales
• Protection: To protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of our clients or others

All third parties are required to maintain the confidentiality and security of your information and use it only for specified purposes.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information:

• Encryption of sensitive data in transit and at rest
• Secure server infrastructure with regular security updates
• Access controls and authentication requirements
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Employee training on data protection and confidentiality
• Secure destruction of information when no longer needed

However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. While we strive to protect your information, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your website experience:

6.1 Types of Cookies

• Necessary Cookies: Essential for website functionality and security
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand website usage and improve our services
• Marketing Cookies: Used for personalized advertising and marketing campaigns

6.2 Cookie Management

You can control cookie preferences through our cookie banner or your browser settings. Note that disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality.

7. Your Rights and Choices

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: Right to know what personal information we hold about you
• Correction: Right to correct inaccurate or incomplete information
• Deletion: Right to request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal obligations)
• Portability: Right to receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format
• Restriction: Right to restrict processing of your personal information
• Objection: Right to object to certain types of processing
• Opt-out: Right to unsubscribe from marketing communications

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided in Section 11.

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide our services and maintain our business relationship
• Comply with legal obligations and professional standards
• Resolve disputes and enforce our agreements
• Maintain records for insurance and liability purposes

Typically, we retain client information for a minimum of 7 years after the last service or communication, in accordance with Australian business record-keeping requirements.

9. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than Australia. When we transfer personal information internationally, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

10. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18. If we become aware that we have collected personal information from a child under 18, we will take steps to delete such information promptly.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact us:

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, technology, legal requirements, or other factors. We will notify you of any material changes by:

• Posting the updated policy on our website
• Updating the "Last Updated" date
• Sending email notification for significant changes

Your continued use of our services after any changes indicates your acceptance of the updated policy.

13. Australian Privacy Law Compliance

This Privacy Policy is designed to comply with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). If you believe we have breached your privacy rights, you may lodge a complaint with us or with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).