How to Make Sure Your Luxury Watches Are Secure

Luxury watches aren’t just timepieces—they’re memories, milestones, and in many cases, assets. Whether you own a Rolex passed down through the family or a freshly purchased Audemars Piguet, keeping them secure takes more than just putting them in a drawer. A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to protection, especially when value is involved.

Store Them Like They Matter

One of the easiest ways to start is with how and where you store your watches. Leaving a high-end watch in its original box is better than tossing it in a catch-all drawer, but it’s still not ideal. That box was built for presentation, not protection.

A dedicated watch case with padded compartments is a much safer option. If you’ve got more than a few pieces in your collection, it might be time to look at a secure home safe. One with fire protection and combination or biometric access adds a strong layer of security without being over the top.

Keep Track of What You Own

If you’ve been collecting for a while, it’s easy to lose track of what’s in your rotation. You might remember the serial numbers of your first few purchases, but as your collection grows, so does the need to document things properly.

Start with a simple log—photos, serial numbers, date of purchase, and any paperwork you received with the watch. Save copies of receipts or invoices digitally as well. This will save you time (and possibly a lot of money) if you ever need to prove ownership or verify value.

Get a Professional Watch Appraisal

Knowing what your watch is worth isn’t always straightforward. Market prices shift, demand changes, and brand reputation plays a big role. That’s where a watch appraisal comes in.

A professional watch valuer can give you an accurate assessment of what your piece would go for today. This isn’t guesswork—it’s based on current market trends, condition, model rarity, and provenance. And it’s not just about selling. It’s also the foundation for protecting your investment properly.

Why You Need Watch Appraisal for Insurance

If your luxury watch was lost or stolen, could you prove its value to your insurer?

This is where watch appraisal for insurance becomes crucial. Insurance companies often ask for proof of value before agreeing to cover the full amount. If you don’t have that documentation, you might be stuck with a basic estimate that doesn’t match the watch’s true worth.

An official valuation from a registered watch valuer makes claims much easier and more straightforward. It also helps you make sure you’re not underinsured—many owners are surprised to find their collection is worth far more today than when they bought it.

How to Find a Reliable Watch Valuer

Not all valuers are created equal. Look for someone who’s certified, preferably with experience in luxury timepieces. Many auction houses, jewellers, and dedicated valuation firms offer this service.

Ask how they assess watches—do they open the caseback? Do they check for original parts? The more detailed they are, the more reliable the valuation will be.

Online Watch Valuation: Fast and Convenient

If going in person isn’t practical, many experts now offer online watch valuation. You provide clear photos, model details, and documentation, and they return an accurate, formal valuation.

This can be a useful option if you’re in a hurry or based far from a major city. Just make sure the service you use is reputable. Check reviews, certifications, and how often they update their valuation figures to reflect current trends.

Regular Updates Matter

A luxury watch isn’t like a car—it doesn’t always depreciate. Some models gain value with time, especially if they’re limited editions or from high-demand brands. That’s why it’s smart to update your watch appraisal every few years. An out-of-date valuation might not reflect current replacement costs.

This is especially important when updating your insurance policy. A piece that was worth £5,000 five years ago might be sitting closer to £12,000 today. If you haven’t updated your records, you could lose out in the event of a claim.

It’s always a good idea to read the fine print and check if you need additional cover for luxury goods. Keep paperwork or digital copies handy in case you need to make a report or claim overseas.

Think Ahead

Watches can last decades—even generations. But security starts with how you treat them today. Storing them well, knowing their current value, and getting insured with a proper watch appraisal for insurance will save you a lot of worry in the long run.

Whether it’s one watch or a full collection, giving each piece the attention it deserves keeps your investment safe and your peace of mind intact.