Watch Collection Care - 25 Experts Reveal Their Tips

May 29, 2023

Watch winders in background - watch collection - expert roundup - LuxWatchWinders

Caring for a watch collection is both necessary and fun. When you've invested in these marvels of engineering and art, spending some time protecting and caring for these beauties is a must. But we also like the joy of spending some time giving your collection the attention it deserves, and marveling at the craftsmanship up close.

With proper care and attention, you can ensure that each timepiece remains in excellent condition for years to come.  

If you are just starting out with building your collection, or you have an existing collection, you know there are questions often unanswered. What's important care? What are other luxury watch enthusiasts doing with their collections? What products are worth investing in?

To get answers for you, we decided to reach out to 25 watch experts. Those in the know, and pros with different perspectives so you get diverse opinions and insights. We have retailers, bloggers, jewelers, horologists, and luxury watch lovers--all with hands on experience with the watch collection.

We hired an expert journalist - Minuca Elena - who reached out to get answers to a simple, but important question.

Read on.

The question we asked our 25 experts was:

 

What are your top three tips for
taking care of a watch collection?

From storage and maintenance to regular wearing and rotation, these straightforward tips and tricks will help you keep your watches in great shape for years to come.

Summary of Tips on How to Care for Your Watch

Summarized, the collective advice fell into the following categories.  But read on to see the details of the practical and useful advice each expert had provided. I'm sure there is something you can use.

Regularly service and clean your watch (33.3%)
(Follow recommended service, use gentle but frequent cleaning)

Store in the right environmental conditions (32%)
(Protect from dust, high temperature and humidity, perfumes)

Invest in the right products (22%)
(e.g. Watch winders, watch safes, watch stands, watch rolls)

Manage risk and be organized 12%)
(Keep instructions, catalog and organize, insure)
 

Now read on for the details.

Expert Advice on Watch Care

Brock McGoff - The Slender Wrist

Watch Winder Expert - Brock McGoff - The Slender Wrist

 

If you collect mechanical watches, don't let them sit for more than a couple of months without winding or wearing them. Like cars, mechanical and automatic watches shouldn't sit idle for too long, as this can cause problems with the internal mechanisms that make them run well.

If you own quartz watches, be sure to keep a few extra batteries on hand. They will inevitably die, and it can be hard to find the right type of battery in a pinch.
Keep a basic set of watch tools (like a spring bar tool and small screwdriver) on hand for basic watch maintenance tasks like resizing bracelets or swapping straps.

Have your mechanical watches serviced every few years, preferably by someone reputable or the manufacturer.

If you own too many automatic watches to wear regularly, invest in a watch winder. This will keep your watches running smoothly even when you're not wearing them.

If you own expensive watches, keep them in a safe when you're away from home for extended periods of time.

Keep your watches in temperate environments (not too hot or cold). Be mindful of your thermostat when you go on vacation.

Keep your less rugged watches out of reach of children. Trust me, they have a way of finding them and testing the limits of their durability!

 

Danny Sattar -  VVS Jewelry

Watch Winder expert - Danny Sattar - VVS Jewelry

 

1. Water Resistance Matters

I advise you to know how water-resistant your watch is.

Most watches nowadays have some level of water resistance; however, over time, vintage watches tend to lose their waterproofness.

The best action is to avoid splashing water on your watch if it is not water-resistant.

Moreover, keep your watch dry if it has a leather band because water weakens it.

2. Keep your watches running.

I suggest keeping your watch on whenever you can because automatic movements, which don't need batteries to work, rely on the motion of your body.

Most automatic watches will feature at least a 24-hour power reserve, which means that the watch can continue to function for up to 24 hours without any movement before it shuts off.

If the watch stops working, it must be reset to show the correct time again.

3. Keep your watch away from chemicals.

Like perfumes, luxury timepieces are not usually impacted by chemical compounds.

Ensure that lotions and perfume have been applied and dried before donning your watch. They can weaken and eventually tear the watch band by damaging it, making it susceptible to damage.

Even if you're wearing a leather watch, you shouldn't expose it to lotion and perfume because it could rust the metal band.

 

Dr. Luis Macias - Aesthetic MDR

Watch Winder Expert - Dr. Luis Macias  

As a plastic surgeon and a passionate watch collector, I understand the importance of preserving the value and beauty of my inherited timepieces.

With watches passed down from my father, I cherish their sentimental and historical significance. To ensure my watch collection remains in pristine condition, I follow some essential tips.

Firstly, I make sure to store my watches in a cool and dry environment, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to prevent any damage to the delicate mechanisms and dials.

I also rotate my watches regularly to prevent them from sitting idle for extended periods, which can cause lubricants to dry out.

Additionally, I am meticulous about servicing my watches regularly, ensuring that they are cleaned, oiled, and adjusted by a reputable watchmaker to maintain their accuracy and longevity.

Lastly, I handle my watches with care, avoiding any rough handling or exposure to chemicals that may harm the delicate surfaces.

By adhering to these practices, I can continue to enjoy and pass down my cherished watch collection for generations to come.

 

Collen Clark - Schmidt and Clark

Watch Winder Expert - Collen Clark

 As a watch collector, there are various strategies you can use to take care of your timepieces and keep them in outstanding shape for years to come.

Watches should be carefully stored, cleaned, and serviced on a regular basis.

Before exposing your watch to water, make sure to check the exact water resistance rating. Make sure the crown is fully pushed in or screwed down. After being exposed to saltwater, properly rinse and dry your watch.

Long-term exposure to sunlight can cause straps and dials to fade. Keep your collection in a dimly lit area or in a closed-lid watch box/case.

Wearing automatic watches on a regular basis is vital for keeping their mechanisms functioning properly. This ensures that the oils in the movement are evenly dispersed and that no parts stay together.

Avoid exposing timepieces to magnets, it can interfere with the movement of a mechanical watch, making it less accurate. Keep your watch collection away from magnetically charged appliances or equipment.

 

Dustin Lemick - BriteCo

Watch Winder Expert - Dustin Lemick

Cleaning the watches in your collection is essential to ensure their longevity and sleek, stylish appearances. Maintaining a watch’s cleanliness can help prevent unwanted smells, dirt, and grime.

Just like how you wash your clothes once a week or take a shower after every workout, your watches need the same attention, especially if you wear certain ones every single day.


With the watches you wear frequently, perform a simple maintenance cleaning every few days because dirt and grime can slowly accrue from wearing your watch daily.

For this, use a soft cloth to dust the watch. Gently twist the crown to see that it’s sealed tight so that nothing can get into the watch’s gears.

Then, inspect the watch to check for any buildups of dirt, oil, scratches, grime, etc., so you can properly clean your watch before the issue worsens.

Learning how to clean your watches is necessary to make sure they last for a long time.

If any of your watches require a deep cleaning due to grime you cannot remove, or you discover other unsightly imperfections such as scratches, take them to a professional jewelry cleaner to handle the task for you to avoid any accidental damage.

 

Louis Hawson - C W Sellors

Watch Winder Expert - Louis Lawson

There are quite a few storage and care options to consider based on the needs of the collection. There’s something for every kind of collector, from beginners to aficionados.”

Watches are incredibly intricate pieces, and storing them correctly is essential to keeping them in pristine condition.

Investing in effective storage options will not only keep them looking good but can also extend their lifespan and preserve their value for years to come.

1. Keep them in their original boxes

When you buy a luxury watch, you’re investing in quality - and that doesn’t stop with your new timepiece. The box your watch comes in can be just as much a work of art as the watch itself, making it a great display option.

Most boxes will be made with this in mind, so watchmakers invest a lot of thought into their look and design.

However, boxes can be susceptible to environmental conditions such as moisture and direct sunlight which can cause damage. Carefully consider where your pieces are stored - if there are any risks, invest in another storage option.

2. Use a watch stand

A watch stand is an excellent way to display your collection. They’re also a great alternative to putting your watch down on a surface like a bedside table or dresser which can cause damage over time. A stand is both convenient and can mitigate the risk.

It’s important to make sure that your watch stand is placed well away from environmental factors that can lead to damage. Avoid placing your stand in the bathroom and in areas where direct sunlight can reach.

3. Invest in a watch box or cases

Watch boxes are another excellent storage option. Like a jewellery box, watch boxes are designed to both preserve and display your piece. They come in individual and multiple options, so you’ll be able to show off standout pieces and full collections in equal measure.

Watch boxes come in windowed and non-windowed options. When looking for the perfect watch box, make sure your choice is lined and well-padded. Felt-lined boxes are highly desired because they reduce the risk of scratch damage.

As with using original boxes, If you opt for a windowed box, make sure your collection is kept out of direct sunlight to mitigate any potential sun damage, and avoid any areas where moisture can build up like the bathroom.

4. Add inserts & trays to draws

Watch display inserts and trays are an excellent option if you want to store your watches in a drawer. Some can be bought purpose-built to fit most draw sizes, but there are also modular options so you can tailor the space.

Trays will often have a number of different compartments to add watch boxes and even sections for straps and bands to allow for easy customisation.

Materials can range from soft leather and felt to foam depending on the specific storage needs of your collection.

5. Try a watch pouch or roll for convenience

Watch pouches or watch rolls are a great option when space is limited. Pouches are a great choice for singular pieces, while a roll is more suitable for a collection.

Their exteriors are incredibly durable, while the interior is often comprised of soft materials such as felt or calves skin to ensure your piece is cushioned against scratches.

They are very light and so can be easily moved around and stored whether it’s a table, draw or safe. They are also a great space-saving option for travellers.

6. Buy a watch safe

While a safe is definitely worth considering, a watch safe offers a dedicated way to protect your watch collection.

Not only are they built to offer optimal protection against accidental and environmental damage, but they also offer an impressive layer of security.

Many watch safes come equipped with individual watch winders which are perfect for keeping your collection on time.

7. Store watches face up

The way you place a watch can have an impact on its accuracy. A watch is usually running at peak performance when it is face up (“dial up”), so it’s important to consider this when it comes to displaying and storage.

Storing your watch face up also makes it easier to handle correctly, which can help prevent accidental damage.

8. Leave gaps

When storing multiple watches together, make sure to leave some space between each timepiece.

The gap doesn’t need to be large, just enough to reduce the risk of contact which can cause contact scratches. If you can, invest in dividers to present your collection safely and securely.

8. Avoid magnetic fields

Watches are incredibly intricate, and their components can be adversely affected by magnetism which can lead to damage, affect accuracy and even stop your watch altogether.

While most modern watches have a measure of magnetic resistance, vintage pieces are still susceptible. To reduce the risk, keep your watches away from large electronics and there shouldn’t be a problem.

9. Keep away from moisture

While many watches are also water resistant, certain high-end luxury or vintage watches aren’t, and the presence of moisture can cause both internal and external damage.

If your watch comes into contact with water, ensure it is completely dry before storing it.

If the storage environment is prone to moisture or condensation, move your collection to a well-ventilated and temperature-controlled setting. This is especially important if you have a quartz watch in your collection.

10. Add silica gel packets

It cannot be stressed enough how much damage moisture can cause. Not only can it cause internal and external damage, it can also cause fogging on the glass.

Make sure your collection is stored well away from areas where moisture can build and for an extra level of protection consider adding silica gel packets to your watch storage.

This is a great option for all types of storage and most packets can be added to inconspicuous places, preserving the aesthetic look of your collection.

11. Remove batteries

Batteries can break down over time which can always run the risk of damage.

If you are placing a watch into long-term storage it’s always wise to remove the battery beforehand. Most batteries can be removed with the use of an appropriately sized jeweller screwdriver, but if you’re ever unsure, take your watch to a jewelry/watch specialist who will be able to do so safely.

12. Keep your watches in time with a watch winder

Automatic watches use your body movements to stay wound - which means they can slow down if they are not worn on regular basis. For people with multiple luxury watches or those who only wear theirs on special occasions, a watch winder can help keep your automatic watch ‘ticking over’ while in storage.

You can buy watch winders individually, or look for watch winders that feature multiple slots for collection. Many watch safes have watch winder options.

You should also opt for a winder that incorporates synthetic leather to avoid static electricity build-up, which can damage your watch's internal mechanism.

 

Abingdon Mullin - Abingdon CoWatch Winder Expert - Abingdon Mullin

My top three tips for taking care of a watch collection are:

1. Keep the box and papers! So many times these are discarded not knowing that the value of a watch can significantly decrease if you don't have all of the "extras" that the watch originally came with.

If you are buying a watch that you may consider to be an investment piece later down the line, keeping the box and papers is a must.

2. When cleaning your watch, never put liquids directly on the watch, and definitely don't submerge or dunk your watch in liquid.

Instead, wet a microfiber cloth and wipe your watch clean with it. It's much safer and the microfiber cloth can really help wipe away any dead skin, sweat, dirt, or grime without the risk of scratching.

3. Understand that watches have maintenance schedules just like cars. Automatic movements have oils that dry out over time and need to be reapplied.

Silicone or rubber gaskets can crack or dry out too and need to be replaced in order to maintain water resistance.

Find out from the manufacturer of the watch what the maintenance schedule is and try to stick to it. Your watch will last several lifetimes with a little preventative maintenance.

Ike Devji - Pro Asset Protection

Watch Winder Expert - Ike Devji

I'm an asset protection attorney that helps protect billions of dollars in assets for a national client base of high-net-worth individuals.

Most of my clients have a few nice watches but many of them are also full-blown collectors with six, seven and even eight figure watch collections.

For some it's a passion, for others it's a wearable investment, with watches outperforming the stock market over the last few years.

I advise all clients that they need to pay attention to several key issues that are often overlooked and that I'm happy to talk about further.

Some issues:

  • Asset Protection - how to protect your assets from lawsuit creditors like you should any other investment
  • Physical Security - including social media exposure and the risk of theft and robbery
  • Insurance - How to insure you collection the right way for actual value
  • Estate Planning - How to pass you collection on the right way and the info and resources your estate plan should include
  • Authentication - Counterfeiting is common in the watch world and fakes, including fake paperwork, are sold openly online

Patrick Gruber - Limitless Patrick

Watch Winder Expert - Patrick Gruber

I would say it depends on the value of the watch, because of higher priced watches of course its makes sense to invest in more and higher priced equipment and services.

In the end, the three best tips to maintain watches in the best manner are:

1. Service. Go to the certified watchmaker by making its service to ensure its accuracy and longevity. Every brand recommends a different service interval, some recommend 2 years others every 10 years. Therefore read the recommendation for your specific brand and model.

2. Storage is important to maintain its accuracy since humidity and temperature can influence over time the watch's accuracy. Therefore store the watches in a watch box and place it in a dark and dry place.

If you have high-value automatic watches then I recommend a watch winder and if you don't buy one you can manually rotate your watches if you don't wear them regularly, since this will help ensure that the lubricants in the movement remain evenly distributed, preventing them from drying out or becoming gummy.

3. Use a clean microfiber cloth to clean your watches to avoid scratching the crystal and the case. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the watch's finish.

PRO TIP: If you like your expensive watch then you should wear them also as often as you want because even if a Rolex drops on the ground it will not break or have scratches easily because of its strength and quality materials. Even though it get scratched you can get them polished away easily at a watchmaker.

 

Eve Acosta - Eves Watch

Watch Winder Expert - Eve Acosta

In my experience, the best way to take care of a watch collection is to keep it organized.

I have a lot of watches, and at first I just dumped them into a box with no organization. It was so hard to find what I wanted when I needed it, and even more difficult to remember which watch was where when I didn't need it. Plus, it was just plain messy!

Eventually, I decided to organize them by type—chronographs, dress watches, etc.—and that worked pretty well.

But then I realized that chronographs and dress watches aren't actually *different* kinds of watches—they're just different styles of the same kind of watch: watches!

So instead of organizing chronographs into one box and dress watches into another, I started organizing chronographs by type (chronograph vs. non-chronograph).

That made it easier to find what I wanted because there were fewer boxes to look through.

Also now if someone wants an example of a particular kind of watch (say, a chronograph), they can easily find all examples together without having to search through dozens of other types of watches first.

 

Thomas Jentzsch - Watch Wired

Watch Winder Expert - Thomas Jentzsch

Proper maintenance is crucial to preserving the value and aesthetics of your timepieces, ensuring they continue to function accurately and stand the test of time.

Store your watches in a dry and cool environment, away from direct sunlight, which can fade dials and straps. A dedicated watch box with individual compartments or a watch winder for automatic watches is ideal.

Regularly clean your watches using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt, dust, and sweat. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which may damage your timepieces.

Service your watches according to the manufacturer's recommendations, typically every 3-5 years. This ensures optimal performance and longevity. Always choose a reputable and authorized service center for your specific watch brand.

Avoid exposing your watches to extreme temperature fluctuations and strong magnetic fields, which can negatively impact their accuracy and functionality.

For water-resistant watches, ensure the crown is fully pushed in or screwed down before exposing them to water. However, be cautious with vintage pieces, as their water resistance may have deteriorated over time.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can protect your watch collection, ensuring each piece remains a source of pride and enjoyment for years to come. Happy collecting!

 

Kassim Mirza - Two Broke Watch Snobs

Watch Winder Expert - Kassim Mirza

1. Store your watch collection properly

Your watch collection needs its own designated space. I know too many collectors who let their pieces live scattered around different parts of their home.

I also know too many collectors who’ve accidentally knocked their watch off a kitchen island - that's a sound you never want to hear.

You need to create a ritual of taking your watch off at the same spot everyday and keeping it in a watch box or a jewelry tray.

2. Dust and sweat are the enemy

Don't let your watch collection get dusty. If dust gets into the smaller nooks of your watch, it will eventually damage it.

This is even more so the case if you wear a watch while sweating. Clean your watches periodically - set a calendar reminder once a week if you need to.

3. Keep electronics away

Keep electronics away from your watch collection. Most electronics output a bit of electrical energy- some may even contain magnets.

Electromagnetic energy can magnetize the metal components of your watch collection, which means that your watch will have to work harder to operate and fight against the resistance of the magnetized parts.

This can negatively affect your timepiece's longevity, accuracy, and value over time.

 

Ryan Beltran - Original Grain

 Watch Winder Expert - Ryan Beltran

1. Keep it stored in a watch box

How you treat your watch when not wearing it is just as important as what you do when you’re rockin' it.

Why spend all that money on a watch if you’re not going to invest in a nice watch box to protect it from direct sunlight and dust?

Plus you get the added value of having them on display. Win-win.

2. Service your watches periodically

Just like any other mechanical device you own, watches require periodic maintenance to ensure they are functioning correctly. I recommend it every 4-5 years.

3. Clean your watch (but not with soap)

Simply take a microfiber cloth and wipe away any dirt or grime that inevitably makes its way onto the surface.

A little water doesn't hurt, but avoid soap, and be sure to secure the crown of the watch.

With a wood watch, I like to use a little natural linseed oil (diluted with water) and a couple of drops of lemon juice, then gently apply with a Q-tip.

 

Pareen Sehat - Well Beings Counselling

Watch Winder Expert - Pareen Sehat

Regular cleaning is necessary if you want your watch collection to maintain its perfect appearance.

If you want to clean the watch case, the crystal, and the strap or bracelet, you should use a microfiber cloth that is both soft and dry.

After cleaning water-resistant cases and metal bracelets with a gentle brush and warm soapy water, rinsing them well and drying them with a soft towel, you can polish them with a soft cloth.

It is important to keep your timepieces safe by avoiding exposing them to strong chemicals and abrasive materials.

 

Jeremy Britton - Boston Trading

Watch Winder Expert - Jeremy Britton

If you have automatic watches, invest into a watch-winder.

It keeps watches free from dust, keeps them moving to prevent stalling or seizing.

I found a good quality one on ebay for around $200 that winds up to six watches at a time, and can store ten more

 

Logan Adler - The Bullfighter

Watch Winder Expert - Logan Adler

Taking care of a watch collection is essential to maintain its value and longevity. Here are some tips for taking care of your watch collection:

1. Store your watches properly

When not wearing your watches, it's essential to store them properly. Keep them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and dust. You can use a watch box or a watch roll to store them.

2. Clean your watches regularly

Cleaning your watches regularly is important to maintain their appearance and prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust. Use a soft cloth or a microfiber cloth to wipe your watch gently.

3. Service your watches regularly

It's recommended to service your watches every 3-5 years, depending on the watch's age and usage. Regular servicing will ensure that your watch is running correctly and prevent any damage from occurring.

4. Avoid exposing your watches to extreme conditions

Avoid exposing your watches to extreme temperatures, magnetic fields, and water. If your watch is not waterproof, avoid exposing it to water.

5. Wind your watches regularly

If you have mechanical watches, it's essential to wind them regularly. This will ensure that they are running correctly and prevent any damage from occurring.

6. Keep an inventory

Keeping an inventory of your watch collection is important to track their value and ensure that they are all accounted for. You can use a spreadsheet or a dedicated watch tracking app for this purpose.

7. Insure your watches

If you have an extensive watch collection, it's important to insure them against theft, loss, or damage. Contact a reputable insurance company to learn more about watch insurance policies.

 

Barron Cuadro - Cladright

Watch Winder Expert - Barron Cuadro

A few watch care tips I live by that are pretty basic but help me maintain them so they always look clean, new, and continue to function well:


1. Invest in a watch display case! Or at least a watch roll. Doesn't have to be fancy, expensive, or showy. But it allows you to house each watch in its own compartment, which prevents any accidental scratches on the case, bracelet, or crystal.

2. I pull out the crown when storing my watches. Doesn't matter so much for my automatics, but it helps save the battery on any quartz watches. I always make sure to do this before putting it back in the display case, if I know I won't be wearing it the rest of the day.

 

Hamza Masood - Watch Charts

Watch Winder Expert - Hamza Masood

 

No matter the price point at which one may collect, if a watch collection has accrued then its total value might be a significant sum of money to you.

I would suggest using a virtual collection feature to keep track of the collection itself, and its market value over time. We have such a feature on our site, as do many others in the world of watches such as Hodinkee, Chrono24, and Wax.

And make sure to keep a couple of eyeglass cleaning towels in your watch box. A few swipes is usually all it takes to remind you how beautiful that dial is underneath.

Eric Jones - Couture Candy

Watch Winder Expert - Eric Jones

If you're a watch enthusiast, taking care of your watch collection is essential to ensure that your timepieces last for years to come. Here are some tips to help you keep your watches in good condition without any hassle.

First, store your watches in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.. This will help to prevent fading or discoloration. Investing in a watch box or watch winder can be a great way to keep your collection organized and protected.

Next, clean your watches regularly using a soft cloth or brush to gently remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage your watch's finish.

It's also important to service your watches regularly to keep them functioning properly. Consider taking your watches to a professional watchmaker or jeweler for routine maintenance, such as battery replacement or cleaning of internal components.

Wearing your watches regularly is another way to keep them in good condition. Regular wear helps to prevent dust and debris from building up inside the watch.

Lastly, keep a record of your collection, including the make, model, and any other important details. This can help you keep track of your collection and ensure that you're taking proper care of each watch.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your watch collection stays in great condition for years to come. So go ahead and show off your stylish timepieces with confidence!

 

Joseph Counts - HiStylePicks

Watch Winder Expert - Joseph Counts

Taking care of a watch collection entails proper storage and upkeep. When it comes to storage, it is important to select a box or container that offers complete protection against direct sunlight, dampness, crowded environments, and magnets.

It is advised to use a display box that guarantees the watches are cushioned, spread apart, and may be secured for security.

Some collectors choose to keep their watches visible and accessible by utilizing watch stands that are both elegant and simple enough to blend in with other house decors.

Good watch maintenance is also essential. Winding the watch on a regular basis is essential for keeping mechanical timepieces working accurately.

Because various watch models need varied maintenance, it is critical to understand the precise care recommendations for each watch.

It is also suggested that the water resistance be examined by a watchmaker every two years.

While beginning a watch collection, it is critical to perform your research and understand what you want and desire. Be patient and take your time while assembling a watch collection that suits you.

Lastly, while not in use, put your watches in a box to protect their condition. It is also advised to keep your watches away from high temperatures, dampness, and magnetic fields.

Good care and maintenance of a watch collection will guarantee that the watches endure longer and continue to function well.

David Scott - Top Reviews

Watch Winder Expert - David Scott

If you want to preserve the value and lifetime of your watch collection, whether you're an experienced collector or just getting started, you must take good care of it.

In addition to ensuring that your watches continue to perform correctly, proper maintenance may assist avoid harm.

1. Water Resistance Is Important

Although most modern timepieces have some level of water resistance, older watches tend to lose their waterproofness with time. Even if a watch that is not water resistant may still withstand a few drops of water, it is still advisable to avoid it. Additionally, if your watch has a leather strap, keep it dry as water degrades the leather.

2. Keep it clean, but avoid using soap

A particularly filthy watch looks bad, and sometimes little bits of debris find their way inside. I just polish the watch with a microfiber towel. As long as your crown is properly fastened and you avoid getting the leather strap wet, a little water won't hurt.

Nevertheless never utilize soap. The soap's molecules can squeeze into incredibly small gaps and cause no benefit to your watch at all.

3. Reduce Sun Exposure

Avoid being in the sun for too long. Your watch's color may deteriorate in the sunlight. Additionally, heat can reduce battery life, so it's best to avoid exposing your watch to direct sunlight.

 

Mark Joseph - Parental Queries

Watch Winder Expert - Mark Joseph

Taking care of my watch collection has been a labor of love. I started collecting watches many years ago, and I've learned some tips to help keep your collection in good shape.

These tips have allowed me to keep the watches in my collection looking new. When I was new to collecting watches, I wasn't sure how to care for them properly.

So, after some research, I've come up with a few ways to ensure my collection is well maintained.

Store the watches in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can damage the delicate parts of the watch as well as cause fading or discoloration of the bands.

I store my watches in an airtight container lined with a soft cloth, which helps to reduce the amount of dust that can get inside.

Inspecting your watches regularly for any signs of wear or damage is also important. Dust can build up over time, so it's important to open the watch case occasionally and gently use a soft brush to remove dirt or debris.

Another tip I've learned is to make sure your watch collection is properly serviced.

Depending on the type of watch you own, having a professional inspect and service the watch every few years can be beneficial. This will help keep the watch running smoothly and reduce breakdowns that could damage its delicate parts.

When cleaning your watch, it's important to use only specialized cleaners designed for the specific type of metal or material used in the watchband and case. This will help maintain its original look without causing any damage.

I also use a soft cloth to polish the watchcase as needed gently. This helps keep the watch looking like new for longer.

 

Alexandre Robicquet - Crossing Minds

Watch Winder Expert - Alexandre Robicquet

Not over-reacting to a scratch is one best practice when it comes to watch collection maintenance. Many collectors will immediately panic at the first sight of a scratch on a watch and insist on taking it to a watchmaker for fixing. Just using some glass polish, or even certain brands of scratch repair gel, will fix the problem on acrylic and mineral crystal especially. Larger scratches may take more than one treatment, but still costs much less than whole part replacement.

Sai Blackbyrn - Coach Foundation

Watch Winder Expert - Sai Blackbyrn

 

A premium watch should be well-maintained in order to maintain its value. Here are some pointers for maintaining your expensive watch:

1. Keep it clean: To eliminate dust or grime, wipe the watch with a soft, dry cloth every few days.

2. Guard against dents and scratches by storing the watch in a case while not in use.

3. Replace the battery and seals on a regular basis. The manufacturer advises that you replace the battery and seals every few years.

4. Store it correctly: Be careful to keep the watch away from heat sources and in a cool, dry location.

 

Robert Cuomo - Hatton Jewellers

Watch Winder Expert - Robert Cuomo

 

1. To stop the growth of germs and bacteria on your watch, it is recommended you should gently clean a watch you wear regularly at least every 2 weeks, giving it a thorough clean every month and taking it to a professional every 6 months.

2. In between regular cleaning, store your watch in a clean, dust-free location.

For example, the box it came in or a jewellery box with a soft lining. Store at room temperature and avoid storing in direct sunlight.

3. Remove a watch when doing any of the following things,

- Washing your hands or taking a bath or shower - you don’t want to submerge it in water or expose it to products like shower gel and shampoo.

- Exercising – this causes body moisture which can dull the shine of your jewellery. They may also get scratched during a workout.

- Gardening or outdoor activities which involve using your hands

- Handling cleaning products, washing up, or performing household chores where they could be exposed to any chemicals.


Thank you so much to all the experts that have contributed to this expert roundup! 

Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and it's important to consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for each watch in your collection.

That being said, if you enjoyed reading this article and you feel you've learned at least one new thing then please help us spread the word by sharing this post with your friends and family on social media!





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