Wrist Assured: How to Safely Ship Your Watch

At European Watch Company, we safely package and ship hundreds of fine timepieces monthly. Thirty years of experience have taught us two truths: thoughtful preparation prevents almost all mishaps, and improper packing can quietly erase value. Consider this your calm, comprehensive checklist, so when it’s time to send a watch across town or an ocean, you can do so confidently. The process begins with the essentials: the watch, its manufacturer’s box and accompanying accessories, appropriate internal packing materials, a high-quality outer shipping box, and proper insurance. Every detail matters. 

The Five Essentials

• The watch

• The manufacturer’s box and accessories

• Internal packing materials

• The outer shipping box

• Insurance

Start from the Inside: The Watch

Carefully secure the crown and any pushers, ensuring that all mechanical components are protected. It is wise to note any visible marks or dings before shipping. Ideally, the watch should travel in its original manufacturer’s box, unless the provided “pillow” is actually a winder insert. Watches should never be shipped on winders, as they are prone to detaching and moving about during transit. If the interior of the box shows deterioration (I’m looking at you, older Vacheron Constantin and IWC boxes), opt for a proper watch roll or a travel/service case instead. Even a rigid eyeglasses case and a little bubble wrap can serve admirably in a pinch, shielding the watch against shock and physical damage.

Protect the Space Around It: The Fill

Next, consider the packing materials. The goal is absolute stability. Allowing the contents to move invites damage, so use bubble wrap generously around the inner box or case and avoid packing peanuts, which settle and shift unpredictably. Over time, we have learned never to use clothing, towels, shredded paper, or bags as packing material, as these offer no consistent protection and can undermine the integrity of the shipment. Packaging peanuts is not recommended, and bubble wrap is the preferred medium. 

Safeguard Accessories

Accessories must be carefully safeguarded alongside the watch. Warranty cards, extra links, buckles, tools, and straps constitute a meaningful part of the watch’s value and must not be left loose. Use designated compartments within the manufacturer’s box whenever possible, or seal smaller components in zip bags. A quick photograph of the packed arrangement before closing the box can save significant confusion upon arrival, ensuring that every item is accounted for. It is not recommended to pack accessories loosely in the packing materials. 

Select the Right Outer Box

Equally important is the selection of the outer shipping box. Choose one that is just large enough to contain and secure the protected contents; oversized packaging increases the risk of shifting, while undersized boxes may not withstand impact. Remember that carriers treat your package like any other, so prepare for the realities of shipping rather than imagining a velvet-glove journey. It is also essential to remain discreet when packaging the watch at the shipping store. 

Insure the Journey

Lastly, insurance is indispensable. Every shipment should be covered for its full replacement value. At European Watch Company, our labels include comprehensive insurance. Additional shipment coverage may be necessary for private transactions or manufacturer servicing. Insurance can be obtained through shipment carriers like FedEx or included in a dedicated personal property policy, such as Chubb’s Valuable Articles Coverage, which protects watches against loss, theft, and damage while in transit. Always confirm the coverage details before shipping, taking special note of any limits, exclusions, and whether transit is explicitly included.

Safely shipping luxury watches requires great attention to detail and care. From selecting appropriate packaging materials and securing accessories to choosing reliable carriers and obtaining comprehensive insurance coverage, each step is crucial in ensuring your valuable timepiece arrives at its destination in pristine condition. If you’d like to consider a personal valuables policy that protects your watches in transit, send me a message at insurance@europeanwatch.com.