Approved sources
The British Bench will use product, workshop, portrait and archival imagery only where there is a reasonable basis for publication. Typical sources include:
- direct written permission from a maker, photographer or rights holder;
- an official press library or press pack whose terms permit editorial use;
- original photography commissioned or created for the publication;
- public-domain or openly licensed material used in accordance with its terms; and
- original diagrams and non-documentary editorial graphics created for the site.
What the site will not do
Images will not be copied from retail listings, social feeds or search results simply because they are publicly visible.
Synthetic or illustrative graphics will not be presented as photographs of a real watch, workshop or person.
A file supplied by a third party will not be treated as cleared unless that party can grant the relevant rights.
Required photographer, maker, archive or agency credits remain attached to the image record and display.
Rights records
For approved material, the private rights record should identify the file, supplier, rights holder where known, permission date, permitted channels, required credit, cropping or editing permission and any restrictions. Untouched originals and permission correspondence are retained privately; optimised publishing copies are used on the public website.
Credits, captions and alternative text
Credits follow the wording required by the rights holder. Captions should distinguish factual description from marketing copy. Alternative text is written for the informational purpose of the image rather than repeating a filename or decorative slogan.
Cropping, colour and modification
Images may be resized and technically optimised for web delivery. Material cropping, compositing, background removal, colour alteration or reuse in social media will only happen where permission allows it. Documentary images should not be edited in a way that changes their factual meaning.
Material submitted by readers or makers
Submitting an image does not automatically transfer copyright. The sender should state who owns the image, what uses are permitted, the required credit and whether cropping or social use is allowed. The publication may decline material where the rights position is unclear.
Takedown and correction requests
A photographer, creator or rights holder who believes material has been used incorrectly should email [email protected] with the page URL, image description, basis of the claim and preferred resolution. Credible requests will be reviewed promptly, and material may be temporarily removed while ownership or permission is checked.
Text and database content
Original writing, structured maker records, diagrams and site design are protected by their respective rights. Short quotations and links are welcome with clear attribution. Republishing substantial articles, profiles, datasets or graphics requires permission.