Traveling with Your Automatic Watch: A Practical Guide

Automatic watches are more than just timepieces-they’re cherished companions that combine mechanical artistry with personal significance. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, bringing your automatic watch along can elevate your style and keep you punctual across time zones. However, traveling with automatic watches requires special attention to security, care, and timekeeping adjustments. 

Security: Keeping Your Automatic Watch Safe on the Move

1. Always Carry Watches in Your Cabin Baggage

Never pack your automatic watch in checked luggage. Checked bags are more susceptible to loss, theft, and rough handling. Instead, keep your watch in your carry-on, where it remains within your sight and control at all times.

2. Use a Quality Travel Watch Case

Invest in a padded travel watch case or roll to protect your watch from shocks, scratches, and impacts. The case should have a soft lining and a secure closure. If you’re bringing more than one watch, choose a case with separate compartments to avoid contact between watches.

3. Prepare for Airport Security

- Wearing Through Security: You can usually wear your watch through airport security. If asked to remove it, request a visual inspection or place it in a tray by itself to avoid scratches.
- X-Ray and Metal Detectors: Airport scanners and metal detectors are generally safe for automatic watches. The magnetic fields are not strong enough to affect the movement, so there’s no need to worry about demagnetization.

4. Insurance and Documentation

Before your trip, check if your watch is covered by insurance, especially for international travel. Take clear photos of your watch for identification in case of loss or theft[6].

5. Be Discreet

Avoid displaying your watch in public or in areas with a higher risk of theft. Discretion is often your best defense against unwanted attention.

Care: Keeping Your Watch in Top Condition While Traveling

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Automatic watches are sensitive to temperature changes. Avoid exposing your watch to extreme heat or cold, such as leaving it in a car, using hot tubs, or entering saunas. Rapid temperature changes can affect lubricants and cause condensation inside the case[2][4].

2. Protect from Moisture

Even if your watch is water-resistant, avoid unnecessary exposure to water, especially saltwater or chlorinated pools. After any exposure, rinse the watch with fresh water and dry it thoroughly.

3. Regular Winding and Use

If you’re not wearing your watch daily, wind it manually to keep the movement lubricated and running smoothly. For longer trips, consider using a compact travel watch winder to maintain accuracy and prevent the movement from stopping.

4. Clean Gently

Wipe your watch with a soft, dry cloth to remove sweat, dust, or moisture. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the case or strap.

Time Zone Tips: Adjusting Your Automatic Watch While Traveling

1. Setting the Local Time

Many automatic watches allow you to adjust the hour hand independently, making it easy to change time zones without stopping the watch. Pull the crown to the first position and turn it to move the hour hand in one-hour increments. Be mindful to set the AM/PM correctly to avoid date misalignment.

2. Using the Date Function

When adjusting for a new time zone, make sure the date changes at midnight, not noon. If you cross the midnight threshold while setting the hour hand, cycle the hand back and forth to ensure the date is correct.

3. Reference a Time Zone Chart

Keep a list of major time zones or use your smartphone to quickly reference local times. This is especially useful for international travel or when crossing multiple zones in a short period.

4. Daylight Saving Time

Remember to account for daylight saving changes, which can add or subtract an hour from the standard time zone difference.

Bonus Travel Tips for Watch Enthusiasts

Don’t Leave Watches in Cars: Cars can get extremely hot or cold, damaging both the movement and seals of your watch.
- Keep Watches Separate from Other Jewelry:  Prevent scratches by storing your watch away from keys, coins, and other metal objects.
- Service Before Long Trips: If you haven’t serviced your watch recently, consider a check-up before extended travel to ensure water resistance and reliability.

Conclusion

Traveling with automatic watches is a rewarding experience when you take the right precautions. Prioritize security by keeping your watch in your carry-on, using a protective case, and being discreet. Maintain your watch’s condition by avoiding extreme environments, keeping it wound, and cleaning it gently. Finally, master time zone adjustments to ensure your watch keeps perfect time wherever your journey takes you.  

With thoughtful preparation, your automatic watch will be a reliable and stylish companion on every adventure.