Watch Loss & Theft: Security Measures Discussion

Key Points from the Discussion

• Securing high-value items like watches or cars may inadvertently shift criminal tactics from theft to more aggressive methods, such as car-jacking or home invasion, as thieves seek the weakest link in the security chain.
• A global, brand-agnostic registry for stolen watches, accessible online, could significantly reduce the attractiveness and resale value of stolen timepieces, thereby deterring theft.
• Luxury watch brands have historically shown little interest in establishing a universal stolen watch registry, prioritizing new watch sales over a lifetime perspective on their products, despite some brands like FPJ and Vacheron Constantin engaging in certified pre-owned programs.
• The Watchlock concept, which physically secures a watch to the wrist, could escalate a theft attempt into a violent confrontation, potentially leading to severe bodily harm if a criminal resorts to extreme measures to remove the watch.
• Insurance is the primary safeguard against watch theft, and in situations where personal safety is threatened, active self-defense might be the only recourse, rather than relying on a device that could provoke further violence.
• Wearing an expensive watch in certain high-risk areas, or during times of increased violent crime, is ill-advised; alternatives include wearing a long-sleeved shirt to conceal it or leaving it at home.