How to Keep Your Watch Scratch-Free: Best Protectors & Tools

A good watch is more than a timekeeping device — it’s an accessory that reflects your personality, style, and daily lifestyle. Whether you wear a rugged sports watch, a sleek dress watch, or a classic everyday timepiece, keeping it scratch-free is essential to preserving its beauty and longevity. The good news? With the right protectors, tools, and accessories, you can easily maintain your watch in perfect condition for years to come.

At That Watch Shop, you’ll find a wide selection of accessories designed to protect, restore, and care for your watch. 

Here’s a complete guide on how to keep your favourite timepiece scratch-free — and the best products to help you do it.

1. Use a High-Quality Watch Screen Protector

One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent scratches is by applying a watch screen protector. Just like phone screen protectors, these thin, transparent films or tempered glass layers safeguard the watch face from everyday wear and tear.

Whether it’s accidental knocks against door frames, desks, gym equipment, or even sharp objects in your bag, a screen protector acts as a barrier that absorbs impact before it reaches the crystal.

At That Watch Shop, the accessories collection includes premium watch screen protectors designed for durability and clarity. They maintain touch sensitivity (if your watch has touch features) and keep the display looking brand new.

2. Choose the Right Watch Strap for Daily Use

Believe it or not, your watch strap plays a big role in preventing scratches. Worn-out metal bracelets or loose links can rub against the case, leaving marks.

Switching to the right strap can protect both comfort and appearance:

• Silicone straps are ideal for active lifestyles, gym use, or outdoor wear.
  

• Leather straps offer elegance and reduce friction around the case.
  

• Stainless steel or metal straps should fit snugly to avoid scratching.
  
  

The Watch Strap Collection on thatwatchshop.co.nz provides plenty of options to suit different watch models and personal styles. Many straps are also quick release, making them easy to change without tools.

3. Invest in a Watch Case or Protective Pouch

If you travel frequently or like to rotate between different watches, a protective watch case or padded pouch is a must. These cases prevent scratches when your watch is stored or packed inside a bag.

A good watch case protects your timepiece from:

• Friction with other accessories
  

• Dust and dirt
  

• Accidental bumps while traveling
  

• Loose objects inside drawers or luggage

Explore the Watch Cases & Storage Accessories section on That Watch Shop to find protective boxes, travel rolls, and soft pouches ideal for both home and on-the-go use.

4. Keep Your Watch Clean with Proper Tools

 

Dust, sweat, and oils from your skin can gradually wear down coatings or cause micro-scratches. Regular cleaning not only helps maintain shine but also prevents long-term surface damage.

Some essential cleaning tools include:

• Microfiber cloths – ideal for daily wipe-downs
  

• Soft cleaning brushes – reach small crevices around the bezel and bracelet
  

• Watch cleaning kits – mild solutions designed for safe use on metals, glass, and ceramics
  
  

The Watch Tools Collection available on thatwatchshop.co.nz offers handy cleaning tools, strap-adjustment tools, and repair kits to help you care for your timepiece at home.

5. Avoid Wearing Your Watch During High-Risk Activities

Certain daily tasks expose your watch to scratches and impact. If possible, remove your watch during activities like:

• Heavy lifting
  

• Home repairs
  

• Gardening
  

• Rock climbing
  

• Playing contact sports
  
  

If you prefer to keep it on, consider a protective silicone case or durable strap designed for sports use — available in the accessories section of That Watch Shop.

6. Regular Strap Adjustments Prevent Case Scratches

A loose bracelet or strap doesn’t just feel uncomfortable — it can cause your watch to slide around your wrist and hit objects more easily. This increases the risk of scratching.

Using a simple watch adjustment tool, you can tighten or resize your strap for the perfect fit. The watch tools available at That Watch Shop make resizing easy, especially for stainless steel or metal bracelets.

7. Store Your Watch Properly When Not in Use

Proper storage prevents accidental scratches from keys, jewelry, or other metal objects. A dedicated watch box or watch stand ensures your timepiece is kept safely away from anything that might harm it.

For those with multiple watches, a multi-slot organiser ensures each watch remains protected and neatly arranged.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Watch Looking Brand New

Your watch deserves the best care, and keeping it scratch-free doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right screen protectors, cleaning tools, watch straps, and protective accessories, you can maintain its beauty and performance effortlessly.

That Watch Shop offers everything you need — from watch protectors and cleaning kits to straps, cases, and tool sets — making it easy to care for your favourite timepieces. With a little attention and the right gear, your watch will stay looking new for years to come.