Storing watches properly

Sooner or later, luxury watch fans have to deal with the question of how to keep their beloved treasures safe. The selection of fine wristwatches is simply enormous. Various manufacturers lure in customers with technical gimmicks, captivating designs and impressive innovations that are hard to resist. As a result, watch collections often grow larger and larger. But ultimately, you can only wear one at a time, and so the need for storage arises. We will tell you below how to store your favorite models correctly and, above all, what you should consider for an appropriate long-term "break" for your timepieces so that they continue to give you pleasure for a long time to come.

Off on holiday

Many watch lovers can never quite decide between the wide range of beautiful, sophisticated luxury timepieces available - but they don't have to. After all, you can simply choose the right companion for each day and carefully store the rest in the meantime. However, there are a few points to consider when storing them correctly so that your beloved pieces, which are currently "on vacation", do not lose their beauty and functionality.

Preparation is everything

In order to store a watch collection successfully, the pieces must be prepared accordingly. Using a wristwatch can lead to sweat, sebum, soap or cream residues collecting on or under the watch. This can lead to discoloration and corrosion damage. This not only affects stainless steel and other metallic materials particularly hard, but also leather and synthetic bracelets. Stubborn, long-term dirt can even cause pitting. Worn watches should therefore be cared for regularly. All you need is a damp microfiber cloth, which you can use to carefully go over the top and bottom of the watch, paying particular attention to corners and recesses. Washing-up liquid can also be used, but aggressive cleaners should be avoided. Steel bracelets can be cleaned with a toothbrush, as deposits often form in the fine gaps between the individual links. Then dry the watch completely with a clean kitchen towel.

What about the battery?

But standard watch care doesn't end there, because the inside also needs attention. The battery in automatic watches should only be removed if it is already clear that the watch will be stored for a long time. But the condition of the battery is also important. If a watch is not worn for a long time, the battery often loses functionality and can leak. This can cause massive damage to the watch. Sometimes the movement is even completely destroyed. For this reason, the battery should be removed if the watch is only stored for a long time. However, if it is stored for a short period of time, this is unnecessarily time-consuming. With quartz watches, the battery should be put into standby mode by pulling out the crown before storage. If you notice any restrictions in the functionality of your watch after it has been stored for a long time, it is better to change the battery straight away.

Is a watch winder necessary?

Many people first think of watch winders when it comes to storing timepieces for longer periods of time. But is purchasing one absolutely necessary for correct storage? The rotor in automatic watches is kept in motion by the movements when worn. A watch winder simulates these movements so that the timepieces are always wound and ready for immediate use. This is particularly advantageous for models with complications, because constantly resetting the complex functions can be tricky, time-consuming and nerve-wracking. In addition, a watch winder can also be used to determine the rate deviation. But collectors in particular could hardly buy a high-quality watch winder for each of their valuable pieces. Apart from financial disadvantages, there is often also fear of signs of wear and tear - after all, the watch is "worn" on the watch winder practically 24/7. For these reasons, most watch fans only use a watch winder for a few favorite pieces that should always be ready for use and let the rest run out and simply store them safely until the next time they wear them.

The right place

After preparation, you need to choose the right storage location. It should not be too bright or warm. UV radiation can even cause the dial to fade and ruin the watch. In addition, heat can loosen adhesive applications, which can then get caught in the hands. Such incidents reduce the lifespan of the watch, cause fading or yellowing, and can require extremely complicated repairs. Direct sunlight, other heat sources, and large temperature fluctuations are therefore no-gos for watch storage. In addition, the temporary home of your luxury watches should not be too humid. High humidity is particularly unacceptable for leather straps, as they can become moldy or develop unpleasant odors. So look for a dry place that is protected from light and has a low room temperature so that you can enjoy your treasures for a long time.

The right “packaging”

However, the watch should not simply be placed in a drawer or on a shelf without protection. A box is ideal. It does not have to be the original box, but if you still have one, there is nothing wrong with using it for storage. If you want to store several watches, a case that is lined on the inside and has small cushions or something similar is recommended for a collection. You can wind the watches on these. For mechanical watches, this should be done every three months so that the oils remain supple. Otherwise, they can stick or resinify inside the timepiece and severely impair its functionality. In addition, the timepieces cannot be scratched when the case is moved. A box like this is ideal for storing all your treasures beautifully arranged, dust-proof and dry. A wooden case is preferable because these are more robust and durable than those made of imitation leather. A display case is an alternative for larger collections. Even if you now know all the important points that need to be considered when storing watches, you should still check on your treasures from time to time. This is the only way to be sure that everything is in order and to know that your favorites will accompany you for a lifetime and that you can possibly pass them on as meaningful heirlooms.

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