A glass lid changes a box's role: it becomes a display as well as storage. Here are its benefits and three precautions to take.
What the glazing brings
See without manipulating. Choose the day's watch at a glance, without opening the lid or lifting a watch. Less handling also means fewer opportunities for drops or scratches.
Protect from dust. Unlike an open display, the closed case keeps dials and bracelets clean.
Display. On a console or desk, the collection becomes an item of decoration in its own right. It's the bias of all our boxes, of Chester 5, five watches on a row, to Kensington 10 and Clarendon 10, ten watches on two rows.
Precaution 1: Light
It's the counterpart of the glazing. Ordinary glass only filters part of the ultraviolet rays. In the direct sun, the light dials yellow and the leather straps fade slowly but lastingly.
The solution is simple: no window edge. A console a few meters from the window, back to the light, is enough. Our article where to install its box details the right slots.
Precaution 2: Heat
A glass box placed near a heat source, radiator or heater, can see its inside temperature rise. Avoid these slots, for watches as well as for finishes.
Precaution 3: glass maintenance
A slightly damp microfiber cloth removes finger marks. Dry immediately. Avoid glass products based on alcohol or ammonia, which can attack joints and varnishes around the glazing.
Glass or solid lid: how to decide
If the box lives in a dressing room or drawer, the glazing does not bring anything and a solid lid protects better. If he lives on a piece of furniture in the sight of all, the glazing makes sense.
And if your watches are automatic and worn alternately, a winder will keep them on time.
In summary
Choose a glass-lidded box to see and display your collection. Kept away from sunlight and heat, with gentle care for the glass, it fulfils that role without drawbacks.