Not only are luxury watches beautiful to behold, but they also represent a very real investment. Names such as Rolex, Cartier and Patek Philippe have therefore become status symbols and if cared for properly, these watches can last for a lifetime.
However, accidents sometimes occur. These often come in the form of scuffs or scratches. How worried should you be if your luxury watch is scratched? Can such a blemish impact its value? Is it wise to attempt to remove a scratch through polishing? Let’s examine each of these questions.
The Impact of a Scratch on the Value of Your Watch
We should first begin by examining how the value of a watch is determined. We will use the selection of Rolex watches for sale by Chrono24 as an example. Not only are the prices directly impacted by the brand name and model (such as the ever-popular Submariner series), but other factors come into play including:
- The materials used (such as silver, gold or diamond features)
- The complexity of the movement
- Market demand
- Rarity (the number manufactured)
- Condition
This final metric is extremely important; particularly when referring to high-status watches.
All About Condition
The good news is that minor scratches or scuffs will normally not detract from the value by more than five per cent. However, major imperfections located in specific areas such as the crystal or dial are more concerning. This arises from the fact that they may require a significant amount of repair work. Much like purchasing a laptop or a similarly expensive item, condition and price are inextricably linked. This is why it is always wise to seek the advice of an expert.
Should You Try to Remove the Scratch?
Assuming that your watch has suffered slight damage, is it a good idea to try and remove any scratches? The answer to this question will involve the location of the scratch as well as its severity. It may be possible to buff away slight imperfections found upon areas such as the band, the winder or the case back (the reverse side of the watch). Scratches found on the crystal are not easily treated and may require professional assistance. Furthermore, excessive polishing can remove small amounts of metal (even stainless steel) from the surface; permanently altering its condition and negatively impacting its value.
An Ounce of Prevention
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to ensure that your watch is protected from accidental damage. Here are some practical maintenance tips:
- Place the watch in its original box when it is not being worn.
- Avoid leaving your watch close to any magnetic devices.
- Service the unit in accordance with the instructions.
- Pay particular attention to the condition of the crystal.
- Clean all surfaces regularly.
Ultimately, scratches on a luxury watch do not necessarily spell disaster. It is still a good idea to seek the advice of an expert when in doubt.
