For most of us, a nice watch is not something we buy frequently. Maybe it’s something you saved up for or even put on your credit card. Whatever the case, the bottom line is that it’s something you want to protect. Here are five ways to protect your watch, both now and in the future.

1. Use proper cleaning techniques

The sweat, oils, and heat from your wrist can weather the band over time. Most metals are fairly resilient, but leather is something you have to take extra care of. Each manufacturer has different cleaning recommendations, so there is no broad piece of advice I can give you, other than to make sure you follow the instructions.

2. Take it off during rigorous activities

It’s true that there are many watches which are designed to be worn during extreme activities. However, if you have one that’s extremely expensive, it’s generally better to take it off before strenuous activities. If you would like something you can wear during rigorous conditions, then you should buy a watch specially designed for that purpose.

3. Pay for it with your credit card

There are a number of reasons why it’s best to pay for your new watch with a credit card. First of all, you may not have a problem with it for years to come. By then you may have lost your receipt, but if you paid with an American Express, MasterCard, Visa, or any other major credit card, then there will always be a proof of purchase which can be retrieved, if need be. Secondly, in the very unlikely event you were sold a fake, you will have recourse through your credit card’s fraud department.

4. Keep it in a safe place

As we all know, jewelry is one of the first things that thieves go for. This is especially true with high end watches like a Rolex, Omega, or Tag Heuer that might be made of gold, platinum, or even diamonds. If you have a high end piece, you should think of it as cash. You would never leave a stack of cash sitting on your desk or on the counter, so don’t do the same with your watch.

5. Consider a warranty

If it’s an inexpensive watch, it’s probably not worth getting a warranty. If it’s expensive, then you may want to consider an extended warranty at the time of purchase. Fortunately, many of the high-end brands already include a free warranty; sometimes it’s good for your entire life! Also, some credit cards like the American Express Gold Card will double the manufacturers warranty up to an additional year on eligible purchases. The Visa Black Card is also known to include benefits which may be useful.

Whether you spent a hundred dollars or a hundred grand on your new time piece, it’s something that can last for years to come if you take good care of it.