I don’t just write about watches; like you, I genuinely love my watch collection. But when I started my collection, I ran into some problems that should sound familiar to any watch collector. Most travel cases have a little bit of extra space inside, which allows the watch to shift when the case is handled. You put your watch in the case, stick it in your luggage… and when you take it out, your bracelet or crystal is scratched.
As a novice collector, I was willing to put up with this. If we’re being honest, I didn’t have a choice. Fitment is a universal problem with affordable travel cases, and if I wanted to spend money on a more expensive case, it would set me back on my next watch purchase!
But when I bought my Rolex air-king in 2015, I knew I had a real investment piece. This watch required a reliable travel case that wouldn’t scratch the crystal or case. That’s why I founded WATCHPOD® – a watch accessories brand specializing in the safe transportation and storage of watches.
Of course, there are many other companies producing their own watch cases. Here are my thoughts on the best.
1. WATCHPOD® Travel Cases
Obviously, I’m biased. But I personally think WATCHPOD® Travel Cases are the best on the market. They’re designed by the team here at watchreviewblog.com, and are already used by collectors from around the world. But don’t take my word for it. WATCHPOD cases have been featured in the New York Times and Quill and Pad, and were ranked #1 by Gear Patrol.
What makes WATCHPOD cases unique is their design. Traditional travel cases are built like display cases. There’s a padded roll or block where you affix the watch as if you were putting it on your wrist, and a cover closes down over the front. To better protect your watch, a WATCHPOD case is shaped like a flat donut. The outer shell is rigid, and the inner surface is entirely padded. The top and the bottom are cushioned with soft, thick foam, and there’s a zipper closure on the outside.
The concept is simple. Instead of putting your watch inside like a display case, you lay it on its side. When you zip the case shut, the foam in the top and bottom entirely surrounds your watch. This allows you to use it with any watch of any size. Even tiny, jewelry-style watches won’t shift around when the case is handled. At the same time, the foam is accommodating enough to fit even the largest of watches.
Here’s the thing; a travel case is not a display case, and they don’t need to share the same design philosophy. A display case is designed for displaying your watch at home. You want it to look nice, especially if you enjoy showing off your collection. Since it’s not going to get jostled around a lot, protection is a secondary concern.
A travel case, on the other hand, is designed first and foremost to keep your watch safe. It doesn’t matter how “nice” it looks if your Rolex gets scratched inside. Besides which, it can be wise to avoid a luxury leather travel case. Those cases scream “expensive,” and can leave you vulnerable to theft.
To that end, WATCHPOD travel cases are designed to look as nondescript as possible. The stiff outer shell is made from plain black 1680 denier nylon or brown faux leather. At a glance, it looks like an oversized earbud case – not exactly a juicy target for thieves. That said, the material is all but slash-proof, and would be very difficult to cut intentionally, much less by accident. It’s also water-repellant, although water will soak in if it’s fully immersed.
The best thing about this material, though, is that it’s crush-proof. You don’t have to worry about damaging your watch while you shove it into your overstuffed suitcase. Meanwhile, the soft interior is as gentle as a polishing cloth.
The original WATCHPOD was designed for a single watch, but we’ve now created larger 2- and 3-watch versions. These versions are only available in black for now, but stay tuned!
All in all, this is the best choice for Rolex collectors because of its superior protection. Your watch won’t move around inside the case, and the hard shell will keep your investment safe. It’s compact, it’s portable, and it costs less than you’d spend on lunch at a restaurant. And with its discreet design, it’s unlikely to attract thieves.
That said, I’ve listened to my customers, and apparently watch collectors really, really like leather cases. To that end, WATCHPOD will be rolling out a new premium line with the same basic design but a suede or leather shell. Unfortunately, supply chain issues have put this on hold for the time being.
Incidentally, WATCHPOD also makes a metal display stand. It’s designed for nightstand use, with a peg where you can easily put the watch on and remove it again. WATCHPOD accessories are available for purchase from our official online store here, as well as through Amazon USA, UK, and Canada.
2024 Update on WATCHPOD® Travel Cases
New Additions to the WATCHPOD® Line: In 2024, WATCHPOD continues to innovate in the realm of watch travel cases. The brand, already known for its practical and durable designs, has introduced new variations to its product line. This includes the WATCHPOD Six Watch Case, a new iteration in their iconic line, now with a larger capacity and featuring a convenient carrying handle. Additionally, they have expanded their offerings with the WATCHPOD Watch Band Travel Case, specifically designed to organize and protect your watch band collection during travel or for home use.
Maintaining Affordability and Quality: Despite these new additions, WATCHPOD remains committed to affordability, with prices for their cases ranging from $14.98 to $21.98. This price range ensures that their products are accessible to a wide range of customers, from casual watch enthusiasts to serious collectors. The brand continues to be praised for its value for money, providing robust protection for watches without breaking the bank.
As of 2024, WATCHPOD’s commitment to quality and affordability makes it a go-to choice for Rolex watch collectors seeking practical and secure storage solutions for their timepieces, both at home and on the go.
2. Bosphorus Leather Cases
Bosphorus Leather is well-known for their premium, handmade leather cases. Founded by master leatherworker Adam Arslan, all of their cases are made by hand by seasoned artisans. As you might expect, these cases are anything but cheap! But any time you buy something that’s not mass-produced, you can expect to pay a premium.
Bosphorus Leather manufactures a variety of watch cases, from single-watch travel cases to large display cases. Not long ago, I reviewed their Saffiano Dark Brown case, which holds a whopping 10 watches. You can order the same case with up to a 15-watch capacity. But most people will want one of Bosphorus’ smaller cases when they’re going on the road.
Make no mistake; these are premium cases. The craftsmanship is outstanding, and you can order multiple colors and designs. The cases also mostly bridge the gap between display cases and travel cases, since they won’t allow your watch to wiggle around. Then again, there’s a major downside; they’re expensive and obvious, making them a target for theft when traveling.
2024 Update on Bosphorus Leather Cases
Recent Innovations and Global Reach: Heading into 2024, Bosphorus Leather has broadened its horizons with the introduction of new luxury leather accessories, including expertly crafted watch straps. These straps, made with the same high-quality craftsmanship as their renowned cases, offer a fresh way for collectors to accessorize their Rolex watches. Additionally, responding to the global demand, Bosphorus Leather has expanded its shipping options, making it easier for international customers to access their range of products.
Sustainability and Personalization: In a nod to environmental concerns, Bosphorus Leather is now exploring eco-friendly materials and practices, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainability in luxury goods. Moreover, they have elevated their customer service to offer more personalized experiences, allowing collectors to have a hand in customizing the design and features of their cases. This bespoke approach ensures that each product is not just functional but also a personal statement for the discerning collector.
3. Wolf Watch Rolls
Wolf Watch Rolls have a more conservative design. These are traditional leather luxury cases that come at a more affordable price. They’re crafted from high-quality leather, with very soft Ultrasuede inner lining and secure chrome-finished snap closures. Better yet, you can order them for one to three watches, so you’re not limited to taking just your favorite.
This is classic luxury at a reasonable price, but it does have a couple of downsides. While the design isn’t “fancy” enough to attract thieves, it’s unimaginative. The cases are literally cylinders, with no extra features or flourishes. Furthermore, the closures aren’t very intuitive. If you somehow manage to get them wrong, your watch can wiggle around and end up getting scratched. If you’re going to go this route, make sure you’re familiar with the closure before you actually use the case.
2024 Update on Wolf Watch Rolls
Innovative Additions to the Range: In 2024, Wolf Watch Rolls has introduced exciting new additions like the “Lunar Triple Watch Roll” and the “Cortica Triple Hexagon Watch Roll with Capsule.” These new designs embody Wolf’s commitment to combining traditional luxury with contemporary functionality. They cater to various watch sizes and preferences, offering enhanced protection and stylish options for watch enthusiasts on the move.
Focus on Sustainability and Craftsmanship: Wolf is now integrating sustainable materials into their products, aligning with the growing trend towards environmentally friendly luxury goods. This initiative showcases their dedication to quality craftsmanship and eco-consciousness. With these updates, Wolf Watch Rolls continues to be a leading choice for collectors who seek a blend of traditional luxury, innovative design, and a commitment to sustainability.
Final Thoughts
For my money, the WATCHPOD Travel Cases are the best of the bunch. They’re protective, they’re discreet, and they’re easy to use. This makes them the perfect companion for your Rolex.
But what works for me might not work for you. Choose the travel case that best fits your tastes and lifestyle.
I am puzzled by your choice. I also have a collection of watches and don’t know where to put them when they’re out of the safe. Not in 15 boxes it’s far too bulky and not travel friendly. I think the best option would a flat pouch preferably zipped and lined in soft fabric or suede. This pouch would absolutely not roll because that’s impractical when storing watches especially the bulky ones. Any idea? Thanks.
Hi Lanny,
What about my choices are puzzling you? Our Watchpod travel case is designed specifically for travel and storage. It stops any movement of the watch inside the case, it’s compact, protective, and quite importantly it’s under the radar when travelling. I’ve personally been using them for over 8 years now (since our founding in 2015) and they’ve been extremely convenient for me. If you’re planning on travelling with 15 watches this requires a custom solution and is not and everyday situation for many collectors. Cheers!
I think the watch roles from Capra Leather are better than the offerings from Wolf. Worth checking out.
I’ll have a look at those. Cheers
I just bought two.one firva 3 watch and another for a two watch
My Rolex is a small ladies’ datejust and i need a case in which it will fit snugly. It’s only 32mm. Would a standard Watchpod do the job? Thanks.
Hi Jackie, yes your 31mm DJ will fit well if you leave both pieces of foam inside the Watchpod. You can also wrap the watch in an additional microfiber cloth to take up any extra room inside.