How to Store a Watch Collection

Short answer: store watches dial-up in a dry, cool place away from sunlight and magnets, in a lined box with individual cushions. A winder is optional — it is a convenience, not a necessity.

Boxes and rolls

A lined box with individual compartments stops watches knocking against each other. Leave the lid closed to keep dust off and the dials out of sunlight, which can fade some colours over years. For travel, a padded watch roll protects two or three pieces in a bag.

Do you need a winder?

A winder keeps an automatic running so you don't have to reset the time and date. It does not extend the life of the movement, and a watch running all year wears slightly faster than one at rest. If you rotate several watches, simply wind and set each one when you pick it up. If you do use a winder, choose one with rest periods and set it to around 650–800 turns per day for Seiko NH35 and NH34 movements.

Humidity and temperature

• Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, lofts and window sills.
• Keep a silica gel sachet in the box and replace it a few times a year.
• Normal room temperature is ideal.

Keep away from magnets

Don't store watches next to speakers, laptops, tablets or magnetic phone chargers.

Long-term storage

If a watch will sit for months, wind it fully and let it run down once every few weeks to keep the oils moving. For quartz pieces, a battery can leak if left flat for a long time, so replace it when it dies.