What are the best practices for storing a preowned luxury watch when not being worn?

Safe storage means keeping your preowned luxury watch clean, dry, protected from impact and separated from anything that could scratch, magnetise or otherwise damage it. When the watch is not being worn, place it in a secure, lined watch case or its original presentation box, with the crown fully pushed in and the case positioned so that the crystal, bezel and bracelet are not pressing against hard surfaces.

Before storing the watch, wipe away perspiration, moisture, sunscreen and other residue with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Pay particular attention to the case back, clasp and bracelet links, where deposits can collect. Do not put the watch away while it is wet. If it has been exposed to salt water, chlorinated water or heavy perspiration, it should be rinsed only if its water resistance is known to be sound and the crown is securely closed; otherwise, arrange professional advice rather than risking moisture entering the case.

• Use a suitable container: A watch box, watch roll or case with a soft, non-abrasive lining is preferable. The watch should be held securely without the strap or bracelet being forced into an unnatural position.
• Keep it separate: Store the watch away from rings, chains, bracelets and other watches. Precious metals and gemstones can mark the case or crystal, while buckles and bracelet edges can create scratches during movement.
• Choose a stable location: A cool, dry cupboard away from direct sunlight is generally suitable. Avoid bathrooms, windowsills, conservatories, kitchens and areas close to radiators, as humidity and temperature changes may affect lubricants, seals, dial finishes and leather straps.
• Keep it away from magnets: Speakers, magnetic clasps, tablet covers, charging accessories and some electrical equipment can magnetise components in a mechanical movement. This may cause inaccurate timekeeping. Store the watch away from such items rather than placing it on top of an electronic device.
• Protect it from dust and impact: Keep the case closed and avoid leaving the watch loose in a drawer. Do not place heavy objects on top of the box, and position the watch where it cannot fall when the drawer or cupboard is opened.

The crown should be fully pushed in before storage. If the watch has a screw-down crown, tighten it correctly without forcing it. Never leave the crown pulled out, as this can leave the movement more exposed and may allow moisture or dust to enter. A crown that feels loose, gritty or unusually difficult to operate should be checked by a qualified watch professional.

Whether the watch should be left running depends on its movement and complications. A quartz watch can normally be stored stopped, although a watch with a battery should not be ignored indefinitely; an ageing battery may leak and damage the movement. If the watch has a power-saving function, follow the manufacturer’s guidance. A manual-wind mechanical watch does not need to be wound simply because it is being stored. An automatic watch will stop when its power reserve runs down, and this does not usually harm the movement.

A watch winder is not automatically necessary for an automatic watch. It may be useful for a watch with a calendar or other complication that is inconvenient to reset, but continuous running adds operating hours and should not be treated as a substitute for servicing. If you use one, select a reputable, quiet model with a secure soft holder and settings appropriate to the movement. Avoid excessive rotation, and seek advice if you are unsure of the required winding direction or setting.

Leather straps need particular care during storage. Keep them dry and allow them to breathe rather than sealing them in a damp, airtight container. Do not apply household creams, oils or cleaning products unless they are specifically recommended for the strap material. Metal bracelets can be stored closed or lightly fastened, provided the clasp and links are not rubbing against the case or crystal.

For longer-term storage, check the watch and its storage area periodically. Look for condensation under the crystal, discolouration, a deteriorating strap, battery leakage or any change in the way the crown and clasp operate. Do not open the case or attempt to remove a battery yourself. Condensation or a leaking battery requires prompt professional attention, even if the watch appears to be functioning normally.

Keep the watch, box, papers, spare links and service documentation together where practical. These items help with future servicing, insurance records and establishing the watch’s history. For a particularly valuable piece, use a discreet, secure location with appropriate household security rather than leaving it on display. A domestic safe can provide useful protection, but it should not be damp or subject to significant temperature changes; consider suitable moisture control and avoid placing the watch loose against the safe’s interior.

Storage does not replace routine maintenance. If a watch has been stored for a long period, has suffered a knock, shows unexplained changes in timekeeping or has an uncertain service history, have it assessed before regular wear. When removing it from storage, inspect the case and strap, check that the crown is secure, and set the time and calendar carefully. Never adjust certain calendar functions during the movement’s restricted setting period unless the manufacturer’s instructions confirm that it is safe to do so.