Secure Storage, Trusted Custody
Whether it’s a whisky cask, a certified diamond or an original artwork, every asset we help you acquire is held under clear, transparent custody arrangements. Here’s how storage and ownership work across each collection.
Secure Ownership. Trusted Custody. Complete Control.
UAA connects buyers and sellers of original contemporary and modern assets, facilitating discreet, independent and collector-led private sales.
Our approach is built around clarity, security and ownership. Every transaction is structured on terms that are fixed, transparent and mutually agreed upon by both parties, giving clients confidence in what they are purchasing, where their asset is held and how they retain control of it.
Whisky
UAA assists clients throughout the process of establishing their own account with an HMRC-approved bonded warehouse. The account setup process typically takes approximately 5–7 days.
Once your account is established, we coordinate with our suppliers to arrange the transfer of your whisky cask directly into your account. This provides a clear chain of custody and enables you to establish ownership of the asset directly from the outset, subject to the applicable warehouse and transaction documentation.
Common Questions
Can I view my cask?
Yes. Collectors can arrange visits to view their cask at the relevant distillery or bonded warehouse, subject to the facility’s access arrangements.
Where available, UAA also aims to arrange quarterly collectors visits to our bonded warehouse facility Royal Elizabeth Bond, giving collectors the opportunity to see their cask in person and gain a better understanding of the maturation process.
How is my cask insured?
Insurance arrangements are provided under UAA’s company policy from the point of purchase, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable policy.
Cover remains in place while the cask is held within the agreed storage arrangements, until it is sold, transferred or otherwise removed from the relevant facility or account. Full details of the insurance arrangements and applicable terms are available to clients on request.
Diamonds
Secure, Independent Storage
UAA offers clients the option of storing their diamonds within a secure, independent safe-deposit facility in Hatton Garden, London — at the heart of the UK’s diamond industry.
Our preferred storage partner, The Balthorne Group, provides secure vaulting and confidential storage facilities for clients who choose to hold their diamonds away from their home or office.
Common Questions
Can I see my diamonds?
Yes. We welcome clients to view or arrange collection of their diamonds by private appointment.
Meetings take place within the secure offices of Malca-Amit in Hatton Garden, London. Malca-Amit are one of the world’s largest and most respected companies in their field, providing global logistics, security and transportation solutions for precious metals and luxury goods. Clients diamonds are stored in secure vaulting facilities provided by The Balthorne Group. With both Malca-Amit and The Balthorne Group located within the same building complete security and discretion is ensured at all times
Art
Ownership With Flexibility
With art, collectors can choose how they wish to hold their asset. You can take delivery of your artwork and enjoy it in your home or office, or choose secure, insured storage if you prefer to preserve the work as part of a longer-term collecting strategy.
Where storage is selected, the account is held in your name, providing clear ownership of your artwork while allowing it to remain securely stored and insured.
We always encourage clients to purchase artwork that they genuinely appreciate aesthetically. Collecting considerations are important, but we believe ownership should begin with a work that you are proud to own.
Direct Access to Artists’ Studios
UAA has direct studio access and works closely with a number of artists and their studios. Banksy and Damien Hirst, just to name a few.
Where appropriate, we can arrange appointments with artists’ studios and their representatives, giving collectors the opportunity to engage directly with the team responsible for the work. This can provide an additional level of transparency and confidence when acquiring original artwork.
Secure Art Storage
Malca-Amit provides secure, specialist storage solutions for individual artworks and entire collections. With a global network of strategically located vault facilities, artworks are stored in highly secure environments designed to protect valuable assets. Facilities benefit from advanced CCTV surveillance and continuous oversight by Malca-Amit’s 24-hour global control team, providing clients with peace of mind.
Viewing Facilities
Malca-Amit’s dedicated fine art studios provide professional viewing facilities for collectors, clients and prospective buyers. Equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and designed to replicate a gallery environment, these spaces offer an ideal setting for private viewings, artwork presentations and detailed condition assessments.
Installation & Handling
Malca-Amit Fine Art delivers specialist artwork installation and handling services worldwide. Its experienced team of fine art technicians manages everything from gallery exhibitions and residential installations to large-scale sculptures and complex projects.
Services also include professional deinstallation, protective packing and bespoke crating to ensure artworks are handled and transported with the utmost care. With extensive international expertise, Malca-Amit provides a professional, tailored service for projects of all sizes.
Our Approach
Across whisky, diamonds and art, our priority is to provide clients with clarity, security and control over their assets.
We aim to make ownership straightforward: clear terms, appropriate custody arrangements, access to the underlying asset where possible, and documentation that allows clients to understand exactly what they own and where it is held.
Discreet. Independent. Transparent. Secure.
UAA provides a private-sales approach designed around the interests of the individual owner.
Industry Connections
Ready to Talk Through Your Storage Options?
Speak to our team to find out how UAA handles storage, custody and insurance across whisky, diamonds and art.