How to Store a Rolex

Co-authored by Ashley Moon, MA and Jessica Gibson

Last Updated: September 11, 2022 References

Your Rolex is a durable, luxury watch that can last for generations if you care for it properly. Fortunately, you don't need to buy complicated storage equipment or follow detailed cleaning schedules. Decide if you want to display your watch or put it away. Protect it from dust, moisture, and oil, and get it serviced every few years. With a little care and the right storage conditions, your Rolex will be in great shape whenever you reach for it.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Storage Containers

1
Put your Rolex in a storage case or roll for an everyday storage option. If you wear your watch frequently, you want an easy-to-use storage system. Take your watch off at the end of the day and put it into a watch case that has soft padding. This looks like a jewelry box, but it's designed for watch dimensions.^{[1]
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- The original box your Rolex came in is also perfect for storing your watch.
- Traveling with your Rolex? Purchase a watch travel case that holds as many watches as you plan on taking.
2
Slide your watch onto a watch roll for a safe, compact solution. If you prefer a smaller storage option, spread out a flexible watch roll and slide your watch into it. Then, roll up the material to protect your Rolex from scratches and damage.^{[2]
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3
Put your Rolex into a winder to keep it running if you don't wear it often. If you don't wear your watch every day, it won't sense movement and the self-winding feature won't work. To save yourself the hassle of adjusting the time before wearing your watch, store the Rolex on a winder. A winder constantly turns the watch so it senses movement and keeps winding itself. Look for a winder that's enclosed in a case to protect your watch from dust.^{[3]
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- Watch winders come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you're sure to find a decorative option that works in your home.
4
Place your watch in a secure display case if you'd like to showcase it. Want to safely show off your Rolex collection? Purchase a watch display case that has a locking feature. Most of these have a glass lid so you can view the watches and you can usually store at least half a dozen in the same case. Don't forget to keep the case locked at all times.^{[4]
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- If you'd like a display option that looks less like a jewelry case, look for a watch cabinet that you can lock.
5
Wrap the Rolex in a soft cloth and lock it in a safe for long-term storage. Protect your Rolex from moisture and scratches by wrapping it in a soft, cloth. Then, put the watch into an in-home safe or a safe deposit box. Shop for a mounted wall safe or a smaller floor safe depending on how many watches you're storing. Then, decide if you want an electronic or manual lock.^{[5]
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- Electronic locks can use a number password or fingerprint recognition while a manual lock uses a combination or key that you use to open the safe.
- Store the original watch box and paperwork in the safe with the watch.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Storage Conditions

1
Store the watch in a dry location to protect it from moisture damage. Over time, moisture can damage the interior of your Rolex, so choose a storage spot that's low in humidity. If you live in a humid environment, run a dehumidifier in the space so you can reduce moisture.^{[6]
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- For a quick, temporary fix, put a few silica packets into your watch case or safe. They'll remove some moisture, but you will need to replace them frequently.
- Avoid storing your Rolex in humid areas of your home, like in the bathroom or near a radiator.
2
Cover the Rolex with a cloth to protect it from dust if it's not in a case. Don't fall into the habit of setting your Rolex on your bedside table at night. You need to wrap it in a cloth or put it into a storage container so fine dust particles don't work their way into the inner movements of the watch.^{[7]
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- Rolex watches are designed to be worn in extreme climates, so it doesn't matter what temperature you store your watch at.
3
Store your watch out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you don't have your Rolex in a case or box, never store it where direct sunlight can damage it. The UV rays can fade vintage watches, especially black accents. This can make your Rolex less valuable, so take care how you store your watch.^{[8]
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4
Keep the watch away from perfume or cosmetics to prevent damage. Never toss the watch onto a counter or into a drawer that has makeup since it can get onto the watch and be tricky to clean off. You should also keep the Rolex away from perfume and cologne which can damage the metal if they get on your watch.^{[9]
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- Did you accidentally get cosmetics or perfume on your Rolex? Clean the watch with soapy water and check it over for damage. Chances are, your watch will be fine.
- If you want to wear perfume or cologne while wearing your watch, apply the scent before you put the watch on so you don't accidentally spray the surface of the watch.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Regular Maintenance

1
Wipe your Rolex with microfiber after you take it off. The Rolex company recommends wiping the entire surface of your watch with a clean microfiber cloth. This gently wipes away dust and gives your Rolex a polished look.^{[10]
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- Do this whenever your watch is looking dull or dusty, too.
2
Scrub the watch with soapy water whenever it looks oily or dirty. If you wear your watch frequently, oil and grime can build up on the bracelet or back of the watch face. Fortunately, it's easy to clean this off. Push the crown of your Rolex down and dip a soft brush into soapy water. Gently scrub the surface and rinse it with cool water.^{[11]
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- Only wash your Rolex if it has the waterproof oyster case design.
- If you've worn your Rolex in the sea, rinse it with fresh water as soon as you get out so salt and sand don't cling to the surface of your watch.
3
Wind your Rolex if you haven't worn it for the last 2 days. Modern Rolex watches have a self-winding mechanism that works when you wear the watch. If you've had your watch in storage or haven't worn it in the last few days, unscrew the crown that sticks out of the side of the watch until it pops away. Turn the crown clockwise 30 to 40 times to wind the watch. Then, push the crown back towards the watch.^{[12]
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- If you need to change the time or date, adjust it before you push the crown back in.
4
Take your watch to a certified Rolex servicer for deep-cleaning or repair. Never try to open the case to clean the inner components of the watch. Instead, search for a certified Rolex servicer and ask them to clean and inspect your watch. They'll clean and lubricate the movement pieces, adjust the timing, and polish the watch.^{[13]
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- If your watch needs repairs or adjustments, check to see if it's still under the company's two-year service guaranty.