Dealer Sentenced for Multi-Million Pound Watch Scam
A watch dealer from Greater Manchester has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for orchestrating a sophisticated fraud scheme that cheated 50 victims out of approximately £1.2 million. Adam Moore-Lynch, the 38-year-old operator of Manchester Watch Hub, appeared at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, where he received a prison term of five years and one month.
The Mechanics of the Fraud
Moore-Lynch's business model appeared legitimate on the surface. He offered to sell high-value timepieces on behalf of their owners, taking an agreed seller's commission. However, instead of fulfilling these agreements, he systematically sold the watches and kept the entire proceeds for himself. The fraudulent activity took place between August 2023 and January 2024.
Among the luxury items involved was a Rolex Daytona valued at £120,000. The total losses from the scheme accumulated to around £1.2 million, with individual watches reaching values of up to £120,000. The defendant, who is originally from Dumbarton in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, was arrested in January 2024 by detectives from the Greater Manchester Police's economic and cybercrime unit.
Investigation and Legal Outcome
The subsequent police investigation was extensive, involving the forensic analysis of bank accounts belonging to nearly 50 victims and the examination of multiple mobile devices. Moore-Lynch ultimately pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including fraud, converting criminal property, and carrying on a business with intent to defraud creditors.
Detective Constable Michelle Wilkinson, from the complex fraud investigation team, commented on the challenges of the case. She indicated that the watches were likely sold on to unsuspecting buyers, making their recovery significantly more difficult for the victims.
While acknowledging that the prison sentence provides some closure, DC Wilkinson noted that the outcome is "overshadowed by the significant financial and emotional loss they continue to endure." The case serves as a stark warning about the risks in the high-value luxury goods market.
