Watch theft is skyrocketing – London saw a 106% jump in 2023 with 6,815 stolen watches. Your regular home insurance won’t cut it, typically capping at $1,000-2,000 per item.
Here are the top 7 specialized watch insurance providers and what they offer:
| Provider | Cost | Key Features | Max Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jewelers Mutual | 1-2% of value | Zero deductible option, any repair shop | Unlimited |
| HODINKEE | ~2% of value | No appraisal under $100K, 150% value protection | Custom |
| BriteCo | 0.5-1.5% of value | No deductible, worldwide coverage | $150K/person |
| WAX | 1%+ of value | Mobile app, cash settlements | $1M+ |
| GemShield | 1-2% of value | Quick claims, low rates | $35K/item |
| Chronoexpert | 1.2-2% of value | Authentication included, EU/UK only | Custom |
| Personal Articles | 1-2% of value | Add-on to home insurance | Varies |
What You Get:
- Full replacement cost
- Worldwide protection
- Coverage for loss, theft, damage
- Choice of repair shops
- Protection during travel
What You Need:
- Purchase receipt
- Recent appraisal (for most policies)
- Photos and serial numbers
- Proof of authenticity
Cost Guide: A $10,000 watch typically costs $100-200/year to insure (1-2% of value).
Watch insurance fills the protection gap left by standard home insurance, covering your timepiece anywhere in the world against theft, loss, and damage.
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What Watch Insurance Covers
Watch insurance fills the gaps that basic home insurance can’t handle. Here’s what you get with a specialized watch policy:
| Coverage Type | What’s Protected | Common Exclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Theft | • Home burglary • Armed robbery • Snatching incidents |
• Unattended items • Unlocked storage |
| Damage | • Accidental drops • Water exposure • Crystal cracks |
• Normal wear • Poor maintenance |
| Loss | • Misplacement • Travel incidents • Mysterious disappearance |
• Intentional acts • Government seizure |
| Natural Events | • Fire damage • Flood damage • Storm impacts |
• War damage • Nuclear incidents |
Want to travel? No problem. These policies protect your watch ANYWHERE in the world.
Here’s how specialized watch insurance beats standard home coverage:
| Policy Feature | Standard Home Insurance | Specialized Watch Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Limit | $1,000-2,000 per item | Full watch value |
| Repair Choice | Insurance-selected shops | Your preferred watchmaker |
| Value Basis | Depreciated value | Agreed or market value |
| Travel Coverage | Limited or none | Worldwide protection |
The price? It’s simple: 1-2% of your watch’s value per year. So a $5,000 watch costs $50-100 annually to insure.
What You Get:
- Full replacement cost
- Pick your repair shop
- No value reduction over time
- Global coverage
- Protection if your watch vanishes
What’s Not Covered:
- Regular upkeep
- Damage you cause on purpose
- Existing problems
- Regular wear
- Factory defects
Pro tip: Keep these records handy:
- Your receipt
- Professional value estimate
- Photos
- Serial number
- Papers proving it’s genuine
These documents make claims quick and simple. Plus, they prove exactly what your watch is worth.
Jewelers Mutual Insurance
Jewelers Mutual has been insuring watches since 1913. They’re backed by an A+ AM Best rating and $643 million in assets.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Type | All-risk policy (loss, theft, damage, disappearance) |
| Deductible Options | $0 to $500 |
| Annual Cost | 1-2% of watch value |
| Claims Process | Online or phone (888-884-2424) |
| Repair Options | Any jeweler of your choice |
| Value Updates | Automatic yearly adjustments |
Here’s what you’ll pay:
- $184/year for a $12,000 watch (Chicago)
- $440/year for two watches worth $32,000 (New Rochelle)
- $7/year for a $500 piece
What makes them different:
- No appraisal requirements (though it helps)
- Coverage anywhere in the world
- Pick your own watchmaker
- Option for $0 deductible
- Values update automatically
They won’t cover:
- Regular maintenance
- Resizing and cleaning
- War damage
- Nuclear incidents
- Government seizures
When something happens to your watch:
- Contact them online or call 888-884-2424
- Go to your preferred jeweler
- Wait for repair/replacement approval
- Pay your deductible (if you have one)
- Get your watch back
Here’s what you need to know:
- Save photos and receipts
- Don’t wait to file claims
- Get repair approval in writing
- Keep wearer information current
- Go with replacement value coverage
One thing to remember: This isn’t a cash payout policy. They’ll fix your watch or replace it with something equal – but you won’t get money in hand.
2. HODINKEE Insurance
HODINKEE teamed up with Chubb in 2020 to launch their watch insurance. Here’s what makes it different: zero deductibles and straightforward coverage.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Type | Loss, theft, and damage |
| Deductible | $0 |
| Annual Cost | ~2% of watch value |
| Claims Support | 24/7 assistance |
| Value Protection | Up to 150% of insured value |
| Appraisal Needs | Not required under $100,000 |
| Payment Options | Split payments for premiums over $400 |
Here’s what it costs: A $5,000 watch? That’s $100 per year.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Global Coverage | Protection worldwide |
| Digital Management | Add/remove watches via app |
| Quick Sign-up | 5-step process with photo verification |
| Home Safe Discount | Available for policies over $200,000 |
| Premium Refunds | Money back if rates drop |
| Spouse Coverage | No extra paperwork needed |
Getting started is simple:
- Snap a watch photo
- Enter market value
- See your quote
- Pick payment option
- Get covered
"This project has been in the works for several months. The team has worked hand-in-hand with Chubb to determine parameters and build on our intuitive digital experience." – HODINKEE
When Something Goes Wrong:
- Call claims anytime (24/7)
- Cash option for stolen watches
- Pick your own repair shop
- Get extra coverage if value goes up (150%)
Setting the Right Value:
- Look at dealer prices
- Check what watches sell for
- Update values when needed
- Use market price, not retail
One thing to note: HODINKEE Insurance only works with U.S. addresses. But don’t worry – it covers watches you buy on vacation or borrow from dealers.
3. BriteCo Watch Insurance
BriteCo partners with HDI Global Insurance Company to offer watch insurance that covers up to 125% of your watch’s appraised value.
| Coverage Details | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Maximum Coverage | $150,000 per person |
| Item Limit | $50,000 per watch |
| Deductible | $0 |
| Annual Cost | 1-2% of watch value |
| Minimum Premium | $50 per year |
| Coverage Type | Loss, theft, damage, mysterious disappearance |
Here’s what you’ll pay each month:
- $2,500 watch: $4-5
- $5,000 watch: $8-10
- $7,500 watch: $12-15
| Key Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Appraisal Needed | For watches over $5,000 |
| Photo Verification | Yes |
| Policy Start | Immediate upon purchase |
| Service Hours | Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm CST |
When you need to file a claim:
- Submit online or call
- Provide police report for theft cases
- Pick repair or replacement option
- Note: They don’t offer cash payouts
"BriteCo is simply another insurance agent. They sell insurance. I don’t care that they are third generation jewelers, they are still first generation insurance sellers." – Robert James FGA, GG, President, International School of Gemology
Your policy includes:
- Free yearly value updates
- Coverage anywhere in the world
- Maintenance coverage
- Prong re-tipping
- Clasp replacement
BriteCo works with over 1,700 jewelers across the U.S. Their insurance comes from HDI Global Insurance Company in Hannover, Germany. They launched in 2018 with a focus on digital-first service.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No deductible | No cash settlements |
| Quick online claims | Limited service hours |
| Automatic value updates | New to insurance market |
| Covers preventive care | Must use approved jewelers |
| Monthly payment options | Appraisal needed over $5,000 |
4. WAX Insurance
WAX Insurance teams up with Chubb to protect watch collections through their mobile app. Here’s what you need to know:
| Coverage Details | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Maximum Coverage | Up to $1,000,000 (higher limits available) |
| Value Protection | 150% of insured value |
| Deductible | $0 |
| Policy Management | Mobile app only |
| Appraisal Required | No – photo verification only |
| Claims Process | Through mobile app |
The coverage includes everything you’d expect (and more):
| Coverage Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Accidental Breakage | ✓ |
| Fire Damage | ✓ |
| Water Damage | ✓ |
| Mysterious Disappearance | ✓ |
| Cash Settlement Option | ✓ |
Want a price example? A Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (Oystersteel) costs about $400/year to insure.
The app makes everything simple:
| App Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo Documentation | Add watches with pictures |
| Digital Storage | Keep collection records |
| Claims Filing | Submit directly in app |
| Quote Requests | Instant pricing estimates |
| Collection Management | All items under one policy |
"A picture of your collectibles is really all you need to be able to protect the things you care about." – WAX Insurance
Here’s what works (and doesn’t):
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No deductible | App-only management |
| No appraisal needed | Pricing varies by location |
| Cash settlements | Limited pricing transparency |
| 150% value coverage | Must use mobile app |
| Digital-first experience | No web platform |
The numbers speak for themselves: WAX scores 4.76 out of 5 stars from 38 reviews, with 36 giving it top marks.
What sets WAX apart? They’ll pay you cash at the agreed value if something happens to your watch. Most other insurers just offer repairs or replacements. Plus, the app handles everything: photos, documentation, quotes, claims, and collection tracking – all in one place.
5. GemShield
GemShield teams up with StarNet Insurance Company to offer no-nonsense watch insurance. Here’s what you get:
| Coverage Details | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Maximum Coverage Per Item | $35,000 |
| Total Policy Limit | $100,000 |
| Appraisal Required | For items over $5,000 |
| Deductible Options | $0 to $1,000 |
| Annual Cost | 1-2% of watch value |
| Coverage Area | Worldwide |
Core protection includes:
| Coverage Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Loss | ✓ |
| Theft | ✓ |
| Damage | ✓ |
| Mysterious Disappearance | ✓ |
| Flood & Earthquake | ✓ |
| New Purchase Protection | 30 days |
Here’s what you’ll pay:
| Watch Value | Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| $5,000 | $52-63 |
| $10,000 | $125 |
Cut your costs with these discounts:
| Discount Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Home Safe | Must store watch in safe |
| Home Alarm | Active security system |
| Central Station | Monitored burglar alarm |
The good and not-so-good:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick online quotes | No coverage during repairs |
| Fast claims process | Limited customer service hours |
| Flexible deductibles | $35,000 per-item limit |
| 30-day new watch coverage | Must submit appraisals within 10 days |
| Lower rates than competitors | No coverage when mailing watches |
The facts speak for themselves: GemShield boasts an A+ AM Best rating and a 0.11 NAIC complaint index – way below average.
Service at a glance:
| Service Details | Availability |
|---|---|
| Customer Service Hours | Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm ET |
| Claims Filing | Online portal |
| Quote Process | Under 1 minute online |
| Application Time | Less than 10 minutes |
| Policy Management | Online portal |
Bottom line: GemShield works best for watch collectors who want basic coverage at lower prices. While their online system makes everything FAST and EASY, remember you won’t have protection during repairs or shipping.
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6. Chronoexpert Protection Plan
Here’s exactly how Chronoexpert protects your luxury watch:
| Coverage Details | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Watch Authentication | Required before coverage |
| Delivery Protection | Included during shipping |
| Claims Processing | Online portal |
| Service Hours | Monday-Friday, 9-5 GMT |
| Coverage Area | UK and EU |
Here’s what you’ll pay:
| Watch Value | Annual Premium Range |
|---|---|
| Under £5,000 | 1.5-2% of value |
| £5,000-£20,000 | 1.2-1.8% of value |
| Over £20,000 | Custom quote required |
Our customers rate us highly:
| Service Aspect | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Claims Processing | 4.0 |
| Customer Support | 4.2 |
| Payment Process | 4.5 |
| Overall Rating | 4.0 |
What’s covered:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Authentication Check | Pre-coverage inspection |
| Shipping Insurance | Full value during transit |
| Repair Coverage | Select certified partners |
| Loss Protection | Market value payout |
| Theft Coverage | Police report required |
"Buy with confidence! Excellent communication throughout." – Verified Buyer
How long each step takes:
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | 24-48 hours |
| Authentication | 2-3 days |
| Coverage Activation | 1-2 business days |
| Claims Response | Within 48 hours |
Bottom line: This plan works for UK and EU collectors who want protection during shipping. Just remember: we’ll need to authenticate your watch first (takes about a week).
7. Personal Articles Insurance Add-on
A Personal Articles Add-on gives your luxury watch extra protection beyond basic home insurance. Here’s what you get:
| Coverage Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Area | Worldwide protection |
| Deductible | $0 in most cases |
| Claims Process | Direct payments to repair shops |
| Loss Types | Theft, damage, missing items |
| Travel Protection | Full coverage on trips |
Here’s what it costs:
| Watch Value | Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| $5,000 watch | $50-100 |
| $10,000 watch | $100-200 |
| $25,000+ watch | $250+ (custom quote needed) |
To get coverage, you’ll need:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Appraisal | Under 18 months old |
| Photos | Clear watch pictures |
| Purchase Proof | Receipt or papers |
| Serial Numbers | Must be recorded |
| Security Info | Safe or storage details |
Basic home insurance won’t cut it – most policies max out at $1,000-$1,500 per item. That’s NOT enough for most luxury watches.
These factors change your rates:
| Factor | Premium Impact |
|---|---|
| Safe Storage | 10-15% off with good safe |
| Where You Live | Costs more in cities |
| Past Claims | Up to 30% higher with claims |
| Watch Age | New models = higher premiums |
| How Often Worn | Daily vs special occasions |
Here’s the claims timeline:
| Step | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Report Issue | First 24 hours |
| Send Documents | 3-5 business days |
| Review Process | 1-2 weeks |
| Get Paid | 5-10 days after approval |
Pro tip: Update your appraisal every 18 months. Watch prices move FAST.
Important: Keep watch claims off your home insurance. A separate policy keeps your home premiums from going up.
How Insurance Plans Compare
Here’s a clear look at what top watch insurance companies offer:
| Feature | Jewelers Mutual | HODINKEE | BriteCo | WAX | GemShield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost | 1-2% of value | ~2% of value | 0.5-1.5% of value | 1%+ of value | 1-2% of value |
| Deductible Options | $0 available | $0 only | $0 only | Varies | Varies |
| Max Coverage | Custom | Custom | Custom | $1M+ | $35K per item |
| Appraisal Needed | Yes | No (under $100K) | Yes | No (under $100K) | Yes (over $5K) |
| Worldwide Coverage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Let’s look at what you’ll pay:
| Watch Value | Jewelers Mutual | HODINKEE | BriteCo |
|---|---|---|---|
| $5,000 | $50-100 | $100 | $25-75 |
| $10,000 | $100-200 | $200 | $50-150 |
| $25,000 | $250-500 | $500 | $125-375 |
Each company has its sweet spot:
| Provider | What’s Good | What’s Not |
|---|---|---|
| HODINKEE | 150% value coverage, skip the appraisal | Costs more |
| BriteCo | Best rates, no deductible | Must get appraisal |
| WAX | Big coverage limits, easy claims | Few price options |
| GemShield | Covers everything | Stops at $35K |
| Jewelers Mutual | Pick your deductible | No pest damage coverage |
Here’s how claims work:
| Company | How to File | Time to Process | How You Get Paid |
|---|---|---|---|
| HODINKEE | Online/Phone | 5-7 days | Direct deposit |
| BriteCo | Mobile app | 3-5 days | Check/wire |
| WAX | Online portal | 7-10 days | Direct to repair |
| GemShield | Phone/Email | 5-7 days | Check only |
| Jewelers Mutual | Any way | 5-10 days | Multiple ways |
Want to pay less? Here’s how:
- Get 10-15% off with a home safe
- Insure multiple watches together
- Pick a higher deductible (except with HODINKEE)
- Pay yearly to save 5-10%
Bottom line: Pick HODINKEE for simplicity, BriteCo for savings, or WAX for big coverage. Your choice depends on what matters most to you.
Picking the Right Insurance Plan
Here’s how to pick a watch insurance plan that works for you:
| Factor | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Watch Value | Current market price | Sets your premium (1-2% per year) |
| How You Wear It | Daily/Sometimes | More wear = more risk |
| Where You Keep It | Safe/Bank vault | Safe storage cuts cost 10-15% |
| Number of Watches | One/Many | Multi-watch plans cost less |
| How You Use It | Sports/Dress wear | Sports need extra coverage |
Your watch’s price points to what coverage you need:
| Watch Value | Coverage Type | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Under £1,500 | Add to home insurance | Basic protection |
| £5,000-£50,000 | Watch-specific plan | Full coverage worldwide |
| Over £50,000 | Collection policy | Custom coverage, multi-watch |
Before you buy:
- Get an NAJ expert to check your watch
- Save your papers and receipts
- Take photos from all angles
- Check your home insurance first
- Look up what your watch sells for now
Here’s what insurance costs for different brands:
| Watch Brand | Monthly Cost | What’s Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Rolex | $75 | Full replacement |
| Panerai | $65 | Global coverage |
| Breitling | $63 | Loss/theft/damage |
| Grand Seiko | $33 | Standard plan |
| Omega | $30 | Basic coverage |
Cut your costs by:
- Using a certified safe
- Getting a multi-watch plan
- Picking a bigger deductible
- Paying once a year
- Keeping service records
Here’s the thing: Don’t just grab the cheapest plan. Pick one that fits how you actually use your watch.
What Affects Insurance Costs
Let’s break down what drives the cost of insuring your luxury watch.
Here’s what insurance companies look at when setting your rates:
| Factor | Impact on Cost | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Watch Value | 1-2% of value per year | £10,000 watch = £100-200/year |
| Location | Up to +50% in high-risk areas | London: +30% due to £30M annual watch theft |
| Storage Method | -10% to -25% discount | Bank vault storage = lowest rates |
| Security Features | -5% to -15% discount | Certified safe = reduced premium |
| Collection Size | Bulk discount 5-20% | 5+ watches = better rates |
| Usage Pattern | +10% to +30% for daily wear | Sports/travel use = higher rates |
Different watch types come with different costs:
| Watch Category | Monthly Premium Range | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Sport Models | £75-150 | Active use, scratches |
| Dress Watches | £50-100 | Social events, theft |
| Vintage Pieces | £100-200 | Parts scarcity |
| Limited Editions | £150-300 | High replacement cost |
Want to pay less? Here’s what works:
- Put your watch in a bank vault (-25%)
- Get better home security (-15%)
- Use a watch safe (-10%)
- Insure multiple watches together (-20%)
- Pay for the whole year upfront (-5%)
- Pick a higher deductible (-30%)
Location matters A LOT. Here’s why:
| City | Annual Theft Rate | Premium Impact |
|---|---|---|
| London | £30M in watches | +30% |
| New York | £20M in watches | +25% |
| Paris | £15M in watches | +20% |
| Tokyo | £5M in watches | +10% |
Here’s a real example: Take a £50,000 Rolex in London. Store it in a bank vault? That’s £500/year. Wear it daily without security? Now you’re looking at £1,500/year.
To speed up claims and get the best rates, keep these documents:
- Purchase receipts
- Service records
- Security measure details
- Where you store it
- How often you wear it
The more info you give your insurer, the faster they can help when you need it.
How to File a Claim
Here’s exactly what you need to do when filing a watch insurance claim:
| Step | Action | What You Need |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Contact Police | File report (theft/burglary) | Police report |
| 2. Document Damage | Take clear photos | Damage pictures |
| 3. Contact Insurer | Phone or online | Policy number |
| 4. Submit Proof | Show ownership | Receipts/appraisals |
Different claims need different steps:
| Type | Must-Do Steps | Time to Process |
|---|---|---|
| Theft | Police report + ownership proof | 48 hours |
| Damage | Photos + repair costs | 1-2 days |
| Loss | Full incident details | 30 days max |
Get These Ready:
- Your receipt
- Latest appraisal
- Service records
- Watch photos
- Police report (theft only)
"When you file a claim, you’ll need two main things: A police report for theft/burglary cases, and for damage claims, just wait for your adjuster’s instructions." – HODINKEE Insurance
Don’t Make These Mistakes:
- Late reporting
- Missing papers
- Wrong info
- No police report
| Company | How to Claim | Response |
|---|---|---|
| HODINKEE | Phone/Web | 6 hours |
| Chubb | Always open | 48 hours |
| Lemonade | App | Right away |
Speed Up Your Claim:
- Report in 24 hours
- Prepare documents
- Check status often
- Save all messages
"With Chubb, you can file claims anytime – phone or online, 24/7." – HODINKEE Insurance Team
Getting Paid:
- Review
- Check damage
- Get offer
- Payment (minus deductible)
- Direct deposit option
Most insurance companies now let you file claims through their app or website. Keep your photos and documents in digital form – it makes everything faster.
Key Points to Remember
Here’s what you need to know about protecting your watches:
Insurance Basics
- Insurance costs 1-2% of your watch’s value each year
- A $5,000 watch = $50/year ($4/month)
- A $20,000 watch = $200-400/year
Core Protection Steps
| Action | What To Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Get Valuations | Update every 3 years | Keeps coverage accurate |
| Check Insurance | Review policy details | Standard home insurance often falls short |
| Keep Records | Save all documents | Makes claims smoother |
| Service Watches | Follow schedule | Keeps warranty valid |
Where to Keep Your Watches
| Setting | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Home Storage | Use a safe or vault |
| Travel Time | Pack in carry-on bags |
| When Wearing | Check clasps before heading out |
What Insurance Won’t Cover
| Not Covered | Solution |
|---|---|
| Regular wear | Keep up maintenance |
| Factory issues | Keep warranty current |
| Skipped service | Stick to service dates |
| On purpose damage | Follow care rules |
"Know your coverage inside and out. Get regular valuations. That’s how you protect your investment." – Russell Jones-Walker, Business Development Manager at Lumley Insurance
Real Stories
| What Happened | Result | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Rolex water damage: £20k | Paid £11k for repairs | Don’t skip service dates |
| OMEGA stolen: £7k | Got partial payment | Keep watches secure |
Before You Sign Up
| Check | Ask |
|---|---|
| Max coverage | Deductible amount? |
| Travel coverage | Works worldwide? |
| Claims speed | Payment timeline? |
| Value updates | Update schedule? |
Must-Have Papers
- Receipt
- Appraisal
- Service history
- Photos
- Serial numbers
- Certificates
Save everything digitally. Back it up. Update yearly. Keep copies in different places – you’ll need them if you file a claim.
FAQs
Can you insure a Cartier watch?
Yes. Getting insurance for your Cartier watch is straightforward.
Here’s what insurance companies cover:
| Coverage Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Protection Level | Loss, theft, damage |
| Coverage Area | Protection anywhere in the world |
| Value Range | Full market value |
| Other Brands | Rolex, Breitling, Patek included |
To get your watch insured, you’ll need:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Purchase Receipt | Shows you own the watch |
| Current Valuation | Sets insurance amount |
| Serial Numbers | Identifies your watch |
| Photos | Proves condition |
Insurance costs about 1-2% of what your watch is worth. Your coverage updates with market prices, so your watch stays protected at its current value. If something happens, you’ll get repairs or a replacement – no matter where you are in the world.
As of March 2024, most watch insurance companies now include Cartier in their standard coverage plans.
