Watch theft: how to keep your watch safe in London

Luxury watches are an attractive target for thieves, in London and in every major city. They are valuable, portable and easy to sell on. None of that means you should leave your watch at home. A few sensible habits make you far less likely to be targeted, and a little preparation makes all the difference if the worst happens.

Be less of a target

• Be aware of your surroundings. Busy stations, crowded streets and the pavement outside restaurants and bars are where watches are most often spotted.
• Keep it under your cuff. In busy places, a shirt or jacket cuff over the watch keeps it out of sight.
• Think about what you wear where. For a late night out or travel to unfamiliar places, some owners choose a less valuable watch.
• Take care with your phone, too. Holding a phone at the kerb shows off both the phone and the watch.
• Post later. Avoid sharing wrist shots that reveal where you are in real time, or where you live. Post after you have left.
• Notice if you are followed. If someone seems to be following you, head somewhere busy and well lit, such as a shop or hotel lobby.

If you are confronted

Hand it over. No watch is worth your safety. Get somewhere safe, then call the police.

Before anything happens

A few minutes now will help the police, your insurer and the chance of recovery:

• Record the serial number and the reference number. Keep a copy somewhere other than with the watch.
• Photograph the watch clearly, including any distinctive marks, the caseback and the clasp.
• Keep the receipt, box and papers in a safe place, separate from the watch.
• Insure it properly. See our guide on how to insure a luxury watch.
• At home, keep watches you are not wearing in a secure safe, and do not leave boxes on display.

If your watch is stolen

1. If you are in danger or the crime is happening now, call 999. Otherwise report it to the police on 101 or online, and get a crime reference number.
2. Tell your insurer as soon as you can.
3. Report it to The Watch Register, an international database of lost and stolen watches that many dealers, pawnbrokers and auction houses check.
4. Let the brand's service centre or your authorised dealer know, with the serial number.
5. Keep an eye on online marketplaces and tell the police if you see it listed.

Wear it with confidence

Being careful about where and how you wear a watch is part of owning one. Keeping it in perfect condition is the other part: see how to protect a luxury watch.