Best Way to Store Unused Automatic Watches
To store an unused automatic watch, the best approach is to keep it in a cool, dry, and secure place where it is protected from physical damage, extreme temperatures, humidity, and magnetic fields. You can either let the watch run down and stop, or use a watch winder to keep it running for convenience.
Key Storage Practices
Environmental Control
- Temperature and Humidity: Store the watch in a climate-controlled environment, ideally between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C) with humidity below 50%. Avoid areas prone to temperature shifts or moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or direct sunlight, to prevent condensation, corrosion, or damage to internal lubricants and the watch face/strap.
- Magnetic Fields: Keep the watch away from electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, speakers, or appliances that produce strong magnetic fields, which can interfere with the delicate mechanical movement and cause inaccuracies.
- Light and Cleanliness: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can fade the dial and damage leather straps. Gently clean the watch with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth before storage to remove skin oils and dust.
- Security: For high-value timepieces, consider using a dedicated home safe to protect against theft and fire.
Physical Protection
- Use a Watch Box or Case: A purpose-built watch box or padded case with individual, soft-lined compartments is ideal for preventing scratches and impact damage.
- Proper Positioning: Store the watch flat or wrapped around a soft watch pillow to maintain the strap’s shape and prevent pressure on the crown. Ensure each watch has enough space and does not touch other timepieces.
- Secure the Crown: Always ensure the crown (winding stem) is pushed in or screwed down tightly to maintain water resistance and prevent dust or moisture from entering the case.
Maintenance While Stored
Letting it Stop
It is perfectly fine to let an automatic watch wind down and stop when not in use. Modern lubricants are designed not to coagulate for a long time, even if the watch is idle for months or years. When you want to wear it again, simply wind it manually (about 20-30 turns of the crown) and set the time. This approach minimizes mechanical wear.
Using a Watch Winder
A watch winder is a useful accessory, especially if you have multiple watches or one with complex functions (like a perpetual calendar) that are time-consuming to reset. The winder simulates wrist movement, keeping the mainspring wound and the internal oils distributed.
- Consider a Quality Winder: If you choose a winder, select one that is programmable with adjustable rotations per day (TPD) and multi-directional winding options to match your watch’s specific requirements.
- Periodic Check-ups: Even with a winder, it’s a good idea to check on your watches periodically. Regardless of the storage method, an automatic watch should be serviced by a professional every 3 to 5 years to ensure longevity.
Documentation
Store the original box and accompanying paperwork (warranty card, certificates) in a separate, dry, and secure location from the watch itself. This documentation is crucial for proving authenticity and value for insurance or resale purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
An automatic watch in storage can be damaged by various environmental and physical conditions. The primary threats include extreme temperatures, humidity, magnetic fields, direct sunlight, and physical shocks.
Environmental Factors
- Extreme Temperatures: Both excessive heat (thins oils) and cold (thickens oils) can cause issues. Rapid changes lead to condensation.
- Humidity and Moisture: Can cause rust and corrosion of internal parts.
- Magnetic Fields: Can magnetize internal components, causing the watch to run erratically.
- Direct Sunlight: Can fade the dial and damage straps.
Physical and Maintenance Factors
- Physical Shocks and Impacts: Can damage delicate mechanical components.
- Dust and Dirt: Can accumulate and cause friction and wear inside the movement.
- Lack of Activity: Very long periods without running may cause lubricants to settle or dry out.
- Improper Cleaning: Storing with oils/sweat can lead to corrosion.
Several brands are well-regarded in the watch community for their quality and features. Top choices often mentioned in 2025 include:
- ORBITA: ORBITA watch winders can be supplied with multiple independent motors and mandrels, perfect for watchmakers or multi-watch collectors. Because each winding station is individually controlled, it offers unmatched precision and flexibility. It is the connoisseur’s choice for bespoke winding solutions.
- WOLF: Known for high-quality materials, precise engineering, and patented rotation systems that count turns per day. They offer single to multiple watch options.
- Barrington: Offers compact, high-quality designs with quiet Japanese motors and a “Jump” feature to link multiple units to a single power source.
- Rapport London: Known for premium, showcase pieces, often with lockable glass fronts and touchscreen controls for serious collectors.
- Kalawen / Entry-level options: Budget-friendly choices often use PU leather exteriors and quiet Japanese motors, suitable for those starting a collection.
The best winder depends on your collection size and budget. Look for models that are programmable to match your watch’s specific needs to avoid overwinding.
How to Tell if Your Watch is Magnetized
The most common sign is that the watch suddenly runs very fast, often gaining several minutes or even hours per day. You can confirm this with a simple test:
- Compass Test: Place an analog compass on a flat, non-metal surface. Once the needle is stable, slowly bring your watch near it. If the compass needle moves erratically or deflects significantly, the watch is magnetized.
- Smartphone App: Apps like LEPSI (iOS) or Physics Toolbox Magnetometer (Android) use your phone’s built-in magnetic sensor to detect fluctuations in magnetic strength when the watch is brought near.
How to Demagnetize It
Magnetization is easily reversible with an inexpensive demagnetizer tool (often called a “blue puck”) available online, or by a professional watchmaker.
To use a home demagnetizer:
- Plug in the device and place the watch on the center surface.
- Press and hold the activation button (you will hear a hum).
- While still holding the button, slowly and steadily lift the watch straight up, a foot or more away from the device.
- Once the watch is far from the device, release the button.
- Repeat the process a couple of times if the watch is still magnetized, perhaps holding it in a different orientation.
The “best” material depends entirely on your lifestyle, activity level, and personal style, as each offers different benefits.
- Leather: Offers timeless elegance, comfort, and develops a unique patina over time. It is best for formal and office wear, but susceptible to water and sweat damage.
- Stainless Steel/Metal: Provides unmatched durability, a classic look, and is water-resistant and low maintenance. It can be heavier than other options and may show scratches, though titanium is a lighter, more scratch-resistant alternative.
- Rubber/Silicone: Ideal for active lifestyles and water sports due to being waterproof, lightweight, and easy to clean. It’s durable and comfortable but typically offers a more casual aesthetic.
- Nylon/Fabric (NATO/Perlon): Known for ruggedness, breathability, and affordability. These are great for casual, outdoor, or military-style watches and come in many colors, but may absorb water and fray over time.