Let’s be honest—whether your watch cost you $300 or $30,000, you didn’t buy it just to toss it in a drawer. A good watch is more than just a way to tell time. It’s a statement piece, an heirloom, or maybe even a part of your daily uniform. So, knowing how to safely store your watch when it’s not on your wrist? That’s a must.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to properly store your watch, avoid common mistakes, and keep your collection looking sharp and running smoothly for years to come.
Why Proper Watch Storage Actually Matters
You might be thinking, “It’s just sitting there—it’s safe, right?” Not quite. Even when your watch isn’t ticking away on your wrist, it’s still vulnerable to a few quiet threats:
• Scratches or dents from bumping against other items
• Humidity creeping into the case and messing with the internals
• Dust buildup around the crown or between the lugs
• Magnetic fields that can throw off timekeeping
• And let’s not forget the most human issue: forgetting where you left it
So yeah, proper storage matters—big time.
1. Keep It in a Dedicated Watch Case (Not a Drawer!)
First thing’s first—ditch the random drawer or shoebox. Your watch deserves its own home.
A good watch case keeps your timepiece protected from dust, scratches, and accidental drops. Most cases come with padded cushions that cradle your watch without putting stress on the strap or bracelet. Plus, they’re great for organizing your collection.
Look for something with:
• A soft lining (like microfiber or suede)
• Secure closures
• Enough space between each watch so they’re not rubbing against each other
If you only have one or two watches, even a small pouch or roll can do the trick. The key is to keep them separate and snug.
2. Avoid Moisture and Humidity
Watches and water don’t always play nice—especially if you’re into vintage or mechanical models. Even the tiniest bit of moisture can lead to foggy crystals or rust inside the movement.
Here’s what helps:
• Avoid bathrooms or humid closets for storage
• Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture (toss one in your case or safe)
• If you’re really serious, consider a dehumidifier in the room where you store your watches
Humidity can be a slow killer—so it’s best to keep things dry from the start.
3. Be Mindful of Temperature Changes
Extreme heat or cold isn’t great for watches. It can affect the lubrication inside mechanical movements, mess with battery life in quartz models, or cause condensation under the crystal.
A few common-sense tips:
• Don’t store your watch on a windowsill or near a heater
• Try to keep it in a temperature-controlled room
• Avoid storing it in cars, garages, or attics
Just like your wine, your watch likes a nice, stable climate.
4. Watch Winders: Yes or No?
If you own automatic watches, you might be wondering whether you should invest in a watch winder.
Here’s the short answer: It depends.
If you have a daily rotation and don’t mind resetting the time and date, you probably don’t need one. But if you have perpetual calendars or moonphase watches that are a pain to set up, a winder can save you some hassle.
Just make sure your winder:
• Has adjustable turning cycles (not all watches need the same amount)
• Turns both clockwise and counterclockwise
• Shuts off after the right duration
A winder isn’t a must-have, but it’s a nice convenience if your collection’s growing.
5. Don’t Store It Wound (Unless You’re Wearing It Regularly)
Let’s talk about mechanical watches for a sec. If you’re not wearing them, it’s usually better to let them unwind.
Keeping a watch fully wound all the time when it’s not in use can put unnecessary tension on the mainspring. That could lead to wear over time.
Instead:
• Let your mechanical watches rest naturally if you’re not planning to wear them for a few days
• Store them in a neutral position—ideally flat, dial facing up
• If your watch has a screw-down crown, keep it secured
Basically, give your watch a breather when it’s off-duty.
6. Travel Smart: Use a Watch Roll or Pouch
Heading out for a trip and bringing your favourite watch (or two)? Don’t just toss it in your bag with your socks and charger cables.
A watch roll or travel pouch is a simple, stylish way to protect your watches on the go. They’re soft, compact, and designed specifically to cradle a watch safely in transit.
Just make sure to:
• Wrap each watch individually
• Avoid stacking multiple watches directly on top of each other
• Keep them away from zippers, keys, or anything that might scratch the case
Bonus tip: If you’re checking luggage, keep your watches with you in carry-on. Better safe than sorry.
7. Avoid Common Watch Storage Mistakes
Let’s wrap up with a few “don’ts” that can save your watch from unnecessary wear and tear:
❌ Don’t leave your watch on its side—it can cause uneven pressure on the case or bracelet.
❌ Don’t store watches in factory boxes long-term—some trap moisture.
❌ Don’t keep watches near speakers, tablets, or magnets—they can mess with accuracy.
❌ Don’t forget about them—wind and wear them occasionally to keep the movement healthy.
Final Thoughts: Protect the Investment, Enjoy the Journey
Watches are more than accessories—they’re little machines full of history, craft, and personal meaning. Taking a few extra minutes to store them properly can go a long way in keeping them running well and looking sharp.
Whether you’ve got one special timepiece or a dozen in your rotation, having a proper storage setup gives you peace of mind and makes your collection feel that much more refined.
Looking for the right gear to store your watch collection? We’ve got curated options for every kind of collector—from compact travel rolls to full-scale display cases—over at Certified Horology. Your watches deserve better than a sock drawer.
