Storage and Travel Checklist for Mechanical Watches

Jtime editorial team · 2026-11-02 · Practical guide

Mechanical watches handle daily wear reasonably well, but they spend much of their life off the wrist, in drawers, boxes and bags. A few habits can reduce the risk of scratches, magnetism and knocks. Where advice differs between movements, the manual for your specific model, or a qualified watchmaker, has the final word.

At home: storage checklist

• Separate watches. Store each one in its own slot or pouch so cases, crystals and bracelets don’t rub together.
• Crown closed. Push the crown fully in, and screw it down if it’s a screw-down type, so it isn’t left in a setting position.
• Dry and moderate. Pick a spot away from bathrooms, radiators, windowsills and direct sunlight. Heat and humidity are hard on straps, lubricants and seals, and sunlight can fade dials and straps.
• Away from magnets. Keep watches away from speakers, magnetic phone mounts, tablet covers, bag clasps and induction hobs. Magnetism can make a movement run noticeably fast or slow.
• Leather straps. Let them air-dry after wear before putting them in a closed box.
• Clean before storing. Wipe the case and bracelet with a soft, dry cloth to remove sweat and dirt.

Running or stopped?

Many owners let an automatic watch stop when they aren’t wearing it, then wind and set it the next time they wear it. Watch winders are optional. If you use one, follow the documentation for both the winder and the watch when choosing settings. For long-term storage, ask a watchmaker whether running the watch now and then makes sense for your movement.

Travel checklist

• Carry it with you. Keep watches in your hand luggage, not in checked bags where they can be knocked about out of sight.
• Use padded storage. A travel roll or small hard case with separate compartments works better than a loose pocket. Make sure nothing presses on the crown.
• Security screening. You may be asked to remove your watch. Put it inside a bag or jacket pocket in the tray instead of leaving it loose, and check you have it before you leave.
• Keep a list. Note which watches you’re carrying, with a photo of each, in case anything goes missing.
• Know the rules where you travel. Customs and import rules vary by country. Check official guidance for your destination rather than relying on informal advice.

Time zones and setting

Crossing time zones means setting the hands, sometimes several times in one trip. Don’t change the date during the hours your manual warns against, which are often around midnight. Move the hands forwards or backwards as your manual recommends. If your watch has a second time zone function, read the instructions for your model before you travel.

Water and climate on the road

Holidays bring pools, beaches and steamy bathrooms. Don’t assume a watch is water resistant because of a marking or a listing. Unless a qualified watchmaker has pressure-tested it recently, keep it away from water: take it off before swimming or showering, and keep the crown closed. Moving quickly from cold air-conditioning into hot, humid air can expose weak seals. If you see condensation under the crystal, stop wearing the watch and have it checked.

When you get home

• Look over the crystal, case and bracelet for new marks.
• Check that the watch is running and keeping its usual time.
• Return it to dry storage once any straps have aired.