London’s littered with hundreds of pawnbroking shops, but not all are created equal. Two of the city’s leading pawnbrokers operate in the heart of the prestigious borough of Richmond, and in Weybridge in Surrey. Both Prestige Pawnbrokers branches showcase a cornucopia of premium pre-owned luxury items, complete with a wealth of expertise from some of the best pawnbrokers in the business. Here’s how two of our most prized team members got started in the industry….

Alicja Luambano

As one of our loveliest ladies, Alicja has been building up her expertise in high-end jewellery for over six years. She first became infatuated with dazzling jewels back when she was 19, and went on to train at the National Association of Goldsmiths. This makes her one of our most valuable jewellery experts. We’d even go so far as to say that she’s priceless! While she adores all things that glimmer, Alicja also loves designer goods, cars and watches. What can we say? She’s a lady of fine taste! As well as pursuing a profession in pawnbroking, this switched-on gal is also a third-year BSc Social Science student.

Lawrence Pickett

While some people are born to pawn, others find themselves falling into the profession. Lawrence definitely falls into the latter category. After spending his early years in Nigeria, Lawrence finished school in the UK and found himself on the hunt for a stimulating and rewarding career that indulged his passion for jewellery – cue an interview with James! Lawrence was immediately won over by the big boss’s infectious enthusiasm for pawn, and quickly learned that it’s a lucrative and exciting business to be in. He now boasts over 30 years of experience in the jewellery trade, including stints with the Queen’s jeweller, Mappin & Webb. The people aspect of pawnbroking is one of the highlights for Lawrence – we can certainly testify that he loves a good chat! He’s also got an insatiable thirst for knowledge, which makes the research component a big drawcard for this self-confessed history buff. Of course, not all of us live and breathe our occupations, and in his spare time Lawrence loves to explore his new interests in modern and urban art, as well as memorabilia from bygone times.

Want to know more about how our fabulous team members got started in pawn? Check back for more later in the week!

The new series of hit Channel 4 show Posh Pawn is due to start on 26^th August. If you’re a regular viewer, you’ll know the show offers a behind-the-scenes look at the pawn industry and its inner workings, with Prestige’s own James Constantinou advising shoppers on how to spot fake designer items. All manner of luxury items appear on the show, and viewers get expert advice on how to buy, sell and ultimately care for expensive items such as jewellery, clothing and even vehicles.

In recent years, more and more people have been turning to pawnbrokers to get instant credit. But Posh Pawn is not just about those trying to stretch their funds until the end of the month by selling off valuables. Prestige Pawnbrokers specialise in high-end pawn, from handbags worth thousands of pounds, to a helicopter with a £1 million price tag. All of this and more plays out in front of the cameras as we’re filmed every day discovering exciting new items, and helping customers buy and sell.

Want a sneak peak of episode one? Read on to find out more about us and what you can expect from the new series…

Who are Prestige Pawnbrokers?

Based in London, the Home Counties and across the UK, we provide loans against jewellery, gold and other collectables such as Hermès and Louis Vuitton handbags. As long-trusted high street pawnbrokers, we often give three times more cash than other lenders.

Viewers of Posh Pawn will be aware of the stunning pieces brought into Prestige Pawnbroker locations in Weybridge, Surrey and Hatton Garden in London. James Constantinou, the Prestige Pawnbrokers MD, is one of our pawn specialists and has seen it all, from grand antiques to Old Master paintings – he has even dealt with a mini submarine! The team has a range of expertise, and jewellery is taken to leading specialist Ian Towning of Bourbon Hanby Arcade, who deals with all things diamond including bracelets, necklaces and rings.

What’s on Offer?

Prestige’s eShop is full of items that would not be out of place on the Posh Pawn show. From exclusive watches to designer bags, art and other luxury items, the online store has something for everyone with a comprehensive range of stunning key pieces. Ideal for every season, items come at a fraction of the original designer price tag, making the site a great find for bargain hunters.

There is also a selection of one-of-a-kind collectible items for sale including solid silver tankards, a 1961 August Bank Holiday Brands Hatch programme and a letter signed by Peter Sellers.

The site even features some of the most memorable items shown on Posh Pawn, such as the German High Gothic style life-sized full armour for man and horse.

Posh Pawn

Items presented to James on Posh Pawn have included classic cars, a 40 foot American motor home, and jewellery from a reformed 1930s cat burglar. The show sees many people taking loans out against beloved items: one person approaches Posh Pawn for a £100K against his luxury yacht, and we meet a divorcee who wants to pawn a £185K necklace to pay her children’s school fees.

Have you seen Posh Pawn? What is the most unusual thing you have ever seen pawned? Let us know on social media, we want to hear from you!