Traveling With An Expensive Watch: A Secure Guide

Travelling with an expensive watch can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with careful planning and a few simple precautions, it is possible to do so without attracting unwanted attention or risking loss, theft or damage. Here are some essential tips to help you travel with your precious timepiece while maintaining your peace of mind.

How to choose the right watch for your trip

When choosing a watch to travel with, it's important to consider the nature and duration of your trip, as well as the activities you plan to engage in. Here are some factors to help you select the right watch for your journey:

Number of Watches

It is generally recommended to bring one or two watches, depending on the length of your trip. For shorter trips, one watch should suffice, while for longer journeys, bringing two watches can offer more flexibility. Consider the occasions and activities you'll be participating in and choose watches that suit your needs.

Type of Watch

Consider the purpose of your trip. If it's a business trip, opt for a classic and traditional watch that complements your professional attire. Smartwatches are also gaining popularity among business travellers for their enhanced functionality. For adventure trips involving outdoor activities or sports, choose a durable and reliable watch. Ultra-affordable brands like Casio are known for their functionality and reliability. If you're heading to the beach or spending time in the water, ensure your watch is water-resistant. Some watches, like the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, are designed for aquatic adventures with high water resistance and features like a screw-down crown and a helium escape valve.

Discreetness

When travelling, it's generally advisable to avoid flashy or excessively valuable watches, especially in areas with high theft or robbery rates. Choose a watch that is understated and discreet, such as a Rolex Air-King 114200, which is relatively unobtrusive with a 34mm size and no obvious Rolex date cyclops.

Durability and Functionality

Prioritize durability and functionality when selecting a watch for travel. Look for features such as scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, water resistance, and solid construction. The Rolex Submariner, for example, is renowned for its durability with a stainless-steel case and robust design.

Practicality and Variety

Strike a balance between practicality and variety when choosing your travel watch. Consider the versatility of the watch and how well it can adapt to different occasions and outfits. If you plan to engage in a range of activities, select a watch that can keep up with your adventures while also offering elegance for more formal events. The Patek Philippe Nautilus, for instance, blends casual and formal aesthetics seamlessly.

Climate Considerations

Research the local climate of your destination and adjust your watch accordingly. Ensure your watch can withstand extreme temperatures or humidity, and if you plan to engage in water activities, confirm its water resistance and follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Sentimental Value

If you're travelling with a watch that holds sentimental value, such as a family heirloom, carefully consider the risks. Ensure the watch is insured, and if the monetary or emotional value is significant, you may want to leave it at home and choose a different timepiece for your trip.

How to pack your watch

When packing your watch, it's important to consider the type of trip you're taking and the value of your watch. If you're travelling with an expensive watch, it's best to keep it discreet and avoid attracting unwanted attention. Here are some tips on how to pack your watch:

• Choose the right watch for your trip: Consider the nature and duration of your trip. Bring a 'beater' for adventures and a 'showpiece' for formal occasions. Think about the climate and activities you'll be doing. For example, if you plan on swimming, ensure your watch is water-resistant.
• Keep it safe: Never put your watch in checked luggage. Always wear it or carry it in your carry-on bag. If you must pack it, use a solid travel watch roll or case to protect it from dust, scratches, and rattling.
• Insurance: If your watch is valuable or has sentimental value, consider insuring it before your trip. Review the terms and exclusions of your insurance policy to understand what's covered, especially when travelling abroad.
• Airport security: When going through airport security, keep your watch on your wrist if possible. If you need to remove it, place it in a protective case first and then into the tray. Never leave your watch unattended in the tray.
• On-the-go storage: Designate a "watch spot" when you're out and about. Keep your watch in a safe, secure place when not wearing it, such as a portable safe or a locked compartment in your luggage.
• Customs: If travelling internationally, bring documentation for your watch, such as a photocopy of the receipt or warranty card. This may be required by customs officials when re-entering your home country.

How to get through the airport with your watch

When travelling with an expensive watch, it's important to take precautions to ensure its safety. Here are some tips to help you get through the airport with your watch:

• Never put your watch in your checked luggage. Always wear it or carry it in your hand luggage.
• If you wear your watch, be prepared to take it off when going through security. Have a plan for where to put it—don't place it in a tray or bin. Consider investing in a protective travel case for your watch.
• Bring the proper storage for your watch. Use a solid travel watch roll or case to keep your watch safe, snug, and secure from dust, scratches, and rattling.
• If you're travelling internationally, bring a photocopy of the paperwork for your watch (e.g. receipt or warranty card). This may be required by customs when re-entering your home country.
• Ensure your watch is insured before travelling. Check the details of the policy to confirm you are covered in the event of theft or an accident.
• Consider wearing a watch that is less flashy or recognisable, especially if travelling to an area with safety concerns.
• Avoid removing your watch in public or leaving it unattended. Keep it on your wrist or securely stored when not in use.

How to care for your watch while abroad

Travelling with a luxury watch can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with careful planning and a few sensible precautions, you can keep your timepiece safe and secure. Here are some essential tips to help you care for your watch while abroad:

• Choose the right watch for your trip: Consider the nature and duration of your trip when selecting a watch. Bring at least two pieces—a durable 'beater' for adventures and a more elegant 'showpiece' for formal occasions. Think about the activities you'll be doing and the environments you'll be in. For example, if you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach or in the water, choose a water-resistant watch that you can keep on your wrist at all times.
• Keep it discreet: Avoid attracting unwanted attention by being discreet and playing it cool. Don't wear an overly flashy or iconic watch, especially in areas known for theft or pickpocketing. A low-profile watch in stainless steel or white gold is ideal.
• Never remove your watch in public: Keep your watch on your wrist at all times when outside your accommodation. Don't adjust it or try on other jewellery in public. Only remove it when you're back in the safety of your room, and place it in a secure case or the hotel safe if provided.
• Use a dedicated travel case: Invest in a quality travel watch roll or case to keep your watch safe and protected during transit. This will also help you stay organised and prevent your watch from flying around loosely in your luggage or hotel room.
• Keep your watch with you: Always carry your watch in your hand luggage or wear it when travelling. Never check it in with your baggage, as this increases the risk of loss, theft, or damage. If you must pack it, place it in a secure case inside your carry-on bag.
• Be mindful of security checks: When going through airport security, keep an eye on those in front of you to see if they're asked to remove their watches. If possible, keep your watch on your wrist and have a plan for quickly putting it away if needed. Avoid placing it in a tray or bin, as this increases the risk of scratches or mishandling.
• Designate a "watch spot": When you arrive at your destination, pick a consistent "watch spot" to keep your watch when you're not wearing it. This reduces the chance of loss or misplacement. If you're concerned about security, consider using a portable safe or locking it inside your luggage.
• Research and prepare: Before your trip, research the local climate and adjust your watch accordingly to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity. If necessary, get your watch serviced and ensure it's still water-resistant. Bring any required paperwork, such as proof of purchase or insurance, especially when travelling internationally.
• Keep it clean: Grime, sweat, saltwater, and sunscreen can contaminate your watch. Bring a soft-bristled toothbrush or a soft cloth to gently clean your watch as needed, especially after exposure to saltwater or chlorine.
• Insure your watch: If your watch is expensive or has sentimental value, consider insuring it before your trip. Ask your insurance provider about the specifics of your policy, including coverage for theft, robbery, or mysterious disappearance.
• Safety first: Remember that no watch is worth risking your safety. If someone attempts to take your watch by force or the threat of force, hand it over without hesitation. Your well-being is always the top priority.

How to insure your watch

When it comes to insuring your watch, there are a few different options to consider. Firstly, you should check if your existing insurance policies cover your watch. Homeowners, condo, or renters insurance policies typically include coverage for personal belongings, including jewellery and watches, up to a specified dollar limit. If your watch is worth more than the sub-limit of your policy, you may need to schedule it separately or add a rider to your policy. This involves providing a detailed description of the watch, and possibly an appraisal and colour photos, depending on its value.

Alternatively, you can explore specialised watch insurance companies, which offer policies specifically designed for luxury watches. These policies can provide coverage for various risks, including theft, loss, damage, and worldwide travel. When choosing a specialised insurance company, consider the company's reputation, premium rates, item value limits, deductibles, and appraisal requirements.

• Hodinkee Insurance: Backed by Chubb, an insurance powerhouse, Hodinkee offers specialised watch insurance with no deductibles. They provide 24/7 worldwide support and easy claims processing. Policies are based on the watch make and model, and an appraisal is only needed for watches valued over $100,000.
• Jewelers Mutual: With a long history of insuring jewellery and watches, Jewelers Mutual offers excellent financial ratings and customer support. They don't require appraisals and have no minimum or maximum value limits. They offer multiple deduction options, including a zero-deductible plan. Their policies cover loss, damage, theft, disappearance, and worldwide travel.
• BriteCo: Specialising in fine watches and jewellery, BriteCo offers insurance for watches valued up to $150,000. They provide 125% replacement value coverage, accounting for increases in value since the last appraisal. BriteCo has a zero-deductible policy and an easy claims process.
• GemShield: With nearly three decades of experience, GemShield is a low-cost provider with zero-deductible options. They focus on watch replacement rather than just providing a settlement. An appraisal is required for items valued over $5,000.
• Lavalier Jewelry Insurance: Lavalier offers specialised high-end watch coverage with all-risk policies, covering various perils from anywhere in the world. They provide free quotes, and discounts may be available if you have a home security system or a safe. Lavalier limits coverage to $50,000 per piece and $150,000 for a collection.

Frequently asked questions