Some things — Gran’s teapot, the watch you inherited from Uncle Moneybags — are worth more than gold.

But when the phone company cuts off your BlackBerry, sentimental attachments go out the window.

The next time you’re in a fiscal fix, take your valuables to new South Ken pawnbroker Suttons and Robertsons. (Don’t worry, there’s nothing sleazy about this posh spot where the cash-strapped jet set goes to borrow a buck.)

They’ll lend you money (30-50 per cent of resale value) against watches, jewellery, art and antiques for up to six months. You can buy your treasures back at any point, and they’ll give you two weeks’ notice if they get an offer from a buyer. Take two forms of ID and as much documentation as possible to support the authenticity of your goods, and you’ll leave with cash in hand. The whole transaction takes only about fifteen minutes.

Consider it time well spent.

Suttons and Robertsons, 78 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LQ (020 7591 3974 or suttonsandrobertsons.com).