Collection Storage Questions

Watch and jewelry collection storage

Is a safe deposit box insured?

Generally not by the bank. Confirm with yours.

Is a box cheaper?

Usually. That is a genuine advantage.

When is a box the better choice?

A modest, already-documented collection where banking-hours access is fine.

Do you insure the collection?

No. Your policy does.

Does a home policy follow into storage?

Frequently not. Ask your broker specifically.

Is transit covered?

The most commonly ambiguous clause. Confirm it explicitly.

Do you appraize?

No. A custodian should not have an interest in what you own.

Do you buy or sell?

No, for the same reason.

Do you wind or service watches?

No. Long-term pieces will stop.

Can I collect a piece to wear?

Yes, by appointment, logged.

Who can access it?

Only written authority you set and can revoke.

Will you admit family without authority?

No. That is the point of the arrangement.

What happens on death?

Release on the authority your estate documents establish.

What if nobody knows it exists?

That is how collections are lost. Tell one person.

Should we split between home and vault?

Most collectors do, and it is usually the right answer.