Finding a private buyer or to go to auction?

Hi,
I’m looking to place for sale or to auction off some unusually rare pieces.

I was thinking of an auction house in Philly, NYC or in the SF area. Does anyone have an opinion on what they saw recently that went to auction and was handled very fairly and professionally.

Do you know of an auction-friendly establishment that draws buyers, and can support, a reserve price of 40K and up, in the US for several men’s rings and watches?

Should I advertise to sell or should I take it to auction?

Thank you.

Andre