Travelling safely with a watch collection

(Photo courtesy of: https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/just-because/beach-watch-rolex-take-best.html)

We want to help you avoid becoming another headline like this Japanese business man you was robbed in Paris for his $840,000 Richard Mille Tourbion Diamond Twister ( https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7551579/Paris-thief-swipes-840-000-watch-Japanese-mans-wrist.html) or this tourist in Ibiza who had his $1.3M RM 50-03 Tourbillon Split Seconds Chronograph Ultralight McLaren F1 taken by force. There are a few general rules that everyone should follow, regardless of the value or number of watches you will be travelling with, so that you and your beloved timepieces come home safely. 

At the airport, there is always a debate over taking off your watch while passing through security. Because security protocols can sometimes vary by country, airport, or even agent, we recommend not trying to wear your valuable watches on your wrist while passing through security. You may be tired, the lines might be long and you might feel rushed, there is often a lot of commotion and quite loud, making it very easy to slip up and forget items at security. You should get in the habit of placing all your valuables together in your carry-on luggage prior to reaching security. This includes your phone, wallet, passport, and of course your watch or watches. The idea is to have a proper routine in order to avoid accidentally losing items. While you can easily drop your wallet or phone in the pocket of your carry-on, we do not suggest leaving a valuable watch loose so be sure to have something to hold your pieces safely, this can include a watch roll, pouch, or case. Once passed security, throw that watch back on your wrist and enjoy the rest of your travels.

((Photo courtesy of: https://www.dalucastraps.com/blog/rolex-skydweller-review-the-king-of-the-skies/)

At your destination, we suggest having a designated spot for your pieces, be aware of your surroundings and be sure to find out about the hotel's services. Most hotels have safesWhatever the situation, make sure you are consistent on where you leave any watches that are not on your wrist, consistency reduces the chance of loss or theft. 

Taking care of your watches on the road is just as important, if not more important than while at home. On vacation your watch might be exposed to sunscreen, sand, saltwater more than it's used to. Some dish soap, a micro-fiber cloth, and a baby toothbrush will go a long way in ensuring that they stay in tip-top shape.

It is very important to be aware of your surroundings when out and about in a foreign place. If you end up in the unfortunate event of a stranger attempting to take your watch by force, hand them the watch. Although this will be very difficult, there is no watch worth risking your life for. If this is something that you would have trouble doing, consider insuring your watches, wearing pieces that are not as valuable, wearing less flashy references, or even lesser known brands as a way to avoid becoming a target.