Key Takeaways
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Always store your watches in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight and humidity.
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Invest in a high-quality watch organizer to protect and display your timepieces.
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Keep certificates and receipts safe for insurance and resale purposes.
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Use a watch winder to maintain your automatic watches in peak condition.
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Avoid DIY maintenance—professional servicing is the best way to protect your investment.
If you’re a watch collector, you already know how important it is to store and protect your timepieces properly - ideally in a dedicated watch box or organizer. Exposing them to the elements can lead to scratches, moisture damage, or even costly repairs down the line. In short: poor storage can turn a valuable investment into a cautionary tale.
If you’re newer to the world of watch care, don’t worry. Below, we’ll walk through the essential tips and tricks every collector should know to keep their watches in pristine condition for years to come.
Invest in a Quality Watch Organizer
You wouldn’t think twice about resting your rings on a holder each night—so why shouldn’t your watches get the same treatment? Watches are intricate creations, often crafted from materials like gold, silver, bronze, or titanium. While these metals are built to last, they’re not immune to scratches or tarnish over time.
As a rule of thumb, watches should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight. That’s why a watch organizer on your desk or nightstand makes perfect sense - it keeps your collection close, visible, and protected.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been collecting for years, a watch organizer is an absolute must. It keeps your watches clean and dust-free, prevents accidental scratches, and offers a stylish way to display your collection. And when you choose right (ahem, Holme and Hadfield) - you get both functionality and aesthetic appeal, adding a refined touch to your space.
Avoid the Elements
We touched on it already, but UV damage from the sun can really do a number on your watches. UV light can fade your watch dial and cause the glass on the face to become discolored, degrading its value.
They should also be kept away from detergents or harsh chemicals that could cause damage to the watch’s surface and mechanism. Moisture is also a problem as it can encourage the growth of mold and mildew or even damage the watch mechanism entirely. So as a general rule, you should never store your watch in the following places:
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On open shelves or in drawers where they can be bumped or scratched
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On a nightstand where they’re exposed to sprays or cleaning agents
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On bathroom counters where humidity levels fluctuate
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On windowsills or surfaces that get direct sunlight
That’s why a watch organizer comes in so handy by keeping your watches neatly stored away and fully protected from the elements.
Travel with Care
If you travel frequently and never do so without your favorite watches, then you’ll want to take special care outside the home as well. While in transit, especially with air travel, watches are subject to a lot of jostling which means added risk of scratches and damage. You will need to purchase a suitable travel-safe watch organizer that has padding or insulation to keep your watches from moving while you’re in transit.
Display Them With Pride
If you love collecting watches, chances are you’ll want to show them off. Instead of juggling an armful of timepieces (and risking a few drops along the way), opt for a watch display organizer that doubles as storage.
Holme & Hadfield’s watch organizers, for example, come with an acrylic lid for a full 360-degree view - perfect for displaying your collection without exposing it to dust or fingerprints. It’s a stylish, practical way to appreciate your watches every day.
Keep Your Paperwork Safe
Proper watch care goes beyond the watches themselves. Your paperwork - like certificates of authenticity, service records, and purchase invoices - is equally important. These documents verify provenance and value, which is crucial if you ever plan to resell or insure your collection.
Keep all paperwork stored in a fire- and water-resistant folder or digital vault, separate from your watches but easily accessible if you need it.
Tools & Products for Safeguarding Your Collection
A few key tools will make long-term watch care much easier:
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Watch winder: Keeps automatic watches wound and ready to wear, ensuring consistent performance. Check out our new watch winder here.
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Watch organizer or case: Protects against dust, moisture, and scratches—available in various sizes and finishes to suit your collection. Don't forget you can get our display case care kit to keep your watch box looking brand new for years to come!
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Insurance coverage: Verify that your homeowner’s or jewelry insurance includes your watches, especially if you own high-value brands. Dedicated jewelry insurance may offer better protection for collectors.
If a watch ever needs servicing, resist the urge to DIY. Professional cleaning and maintenance are worth the investment - attempting to polish or open a watch yourself could void warranties or cause damage your insurance won’t cover.
Final Thoughts on Watch Care & Storage
Watch collectors must take the necessary time and effort to properly store and protect their watches. By following these tips, your favorite watch will be preserved for many years to come. With proper storage and protection measures in place, your watch or watch collection can even increase in value over time as a collectable item.
Watch Storage FAQs
How should I store my watch when not wearing it?
Keep it in a watch organizer or case lined with soft material to prevent scratches. Ensure it’s stored in a cool, dry space away from sunlight or moisture.
Can I store my watches in the bathroom?
No. The humidity in bathrooms can damage the movement and cause condensation inside the watch. Always store them in a dry, temperature-stable room.
Do I need a watch winder for all my watches?
Only for automatic watches. A watch winder keeps them running smoothly when not worn. Quartz or manual watches can be stored without one.
How often should I service my watch?
Most manufacturers recommend servicing every 3–5 years, but this depends on usage and environment. Always check your brand’s specific care instructions.
Can sunlight really damage my watch?
Yes. Prolonged UV exposure can fade the dial, damage the strap, and discolor the crystal. Keep watches out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
