SCRATCHES

I don’t like scratches. I try to keep all my things looking new for as long as possible. But honest wear from use is eventually inevitable, and will be embraced. 

That Seiko is a bit much for me though. 

Same as @gbelleh — avoid them, but embrace and enjoy them once they happen. Hopefully a story/memory can be tied to them.

The thought “nothing is cool until you wear the new off” always makes me feel better, even though I don’t necessarily always believe in it.

Don’t go looking for them but they are a part of life. Polishing them out could cause more issues particularly if not done well. better than leaving the watch in a safe and not wearing it

I don't take credit for this as I read it on here a week ago but;

It's just a watch, got to tell the time, enjoy it.

I know, easier said than done but I want to make it my new mantra as I am such a snowflake with my watches. I'll report back maybe after my first "incident".

Now where did I leave that cotton wool?.......

Try not to scratch. However, scratches mean something has been worn and well loved so if they happen don’t worry. 

No no no! The rampaging OCD in me sends shivers down my spine at the mere suggestion of a scratch.  I know I'm missing out, but it's sapphire glass and ceramic bezels all the way for me.  Good job I mainly collect divers I suppose.

The older I get the less I care, even with slight OCD. I’ve even bought a watch or two pre-loved with the odd ding or scratch for the right (read: cheap) price. A bit of Polywatch where applicable, done, move on. 

depends. if it is my tool watch/beater, ok. but if it is my grail, i will punch whoever/whatever/myself. LOL

If you love your watch you'll wear your watch. If you wear your watch, you'll eventually scratch your watch.

Unless you have an incredibly sedentary lifestyle.

im not embracing it but i wear my watch everyday (on a rotation) and sometimes we can't avoid scratch and dent that come. just wear it carefully, accept scratch and dent for what it is. its a part of the journey 👍

Simply accepting that it happens (even when being careful). I don't want to spend my whole day worrying about scratching my watch. It would ruin the pleasure of wearing it in the first place.

Scratches are polished stainless steel patina.

Some scratches are sentimental as well. I bought this vintage Talis Automatic Skin Diver about 12 years ago for £30, and she has served as a faithful travel companion ever since. I’ve taken her to -35*C across most of the Arctic Circle, and up to +30*C in the jungle, and she has suffered as much as I have; every scuff is a story in itself.

And today, she came to the office…

I bought this from the original owner it was issued to in 1991. It also came with a really beaten strap that told a story which I have replaced but kept. I probably won’t buff these out.