How to Store Antique Pocket Watches

Antique pocket watches are best understood from the inside out. Dial signatures can be retailer names, cases may have been changed, and identical-looking watches can contain movements of very different quality.

1. Store dry

Store dry should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.

2. Avoid magnetic sources

Avoid magnetic sources should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.

3. Separate watches from abrasive chains

Separate watches from abrasive chains should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.

4. Do not leave dirty watches running

Do not leave dirty watches running should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.

5. Document service dates

Document service dates should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.

Important: This guide is educational. It is not a formal appraisal, railroad approval determination or repair instruction for every watch.

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