| November 27, 2022
As the collection has grown, so has the need to store everything. Each evolution of storage has required some clever thinking to be effective.
This is the third generation of the collection. As I continued to expand my collection with a strong focus on rings, the need to roughly double or triple the capacity of the storage solution became evident. Because the previous generation of storage suited me quite well, I brought forward several parts of the solution into this generation. Starting with the watch organizer I had used before, I decided to double up on ring storage space by purchasing a second. These watch organizers, with their velvet texture, is an excellent way to protect the investment in your collection thanks to the soft sides. It should also go without saying that a jewelry organizer certainly provides a handsome way to present rings (especially metal rings). As can seen by the picture of the collection, multiple rings will fit in the each compartment with the only deciding factor being the width of the ring. Aside from one or two massive units in the collection, every ring I own fit well in the compartment and had enough room to add a few standing vertically on the size. While in the neighborhood I also picked up a few extra watch pillows.
With the dimensions of the organizers in hand, I began the search for a much larger case. I had considered picking up a second locking case and building a double-decker setup but ultimately chose not to because the dimensions of the watch organizer left too much dead space to the side and below - and also because a two tier collection is a bit less impressive. As I browsed, I came to realize that firearm cases come in so many shapes and sizes that I could certainly find a solution that matches my needs. I ultimately settled on a flambeau tactical rifle case as the foundation because it featured locking latches and the perfect dimensions. At the time of purchase, the case was only around $30USD - which made for an easy decision.
Choosing this rifle case as the base of the solution was fortunate since it included a very handy feature that worked well as part of the overall solution. The case includes standoffs in the base and top designed to drive screws into in order to secure compartments or straps. These landings were the perfect place to fasten the watch organizer to. Naturally, I also mounted the jewelry ring display pads to the same standoffs.
The solution ultimately came about in this fashion:
- Lay out the included foam from the case and outline the watch organizer shape to guide cuts
- Cut the foam to fit around the watch organizers
- Locate the watch organizers on the standoffs (press firmly onto the standoff and a dimple will form)
- Drill a small hole in the watch organizers where the standoffs are and use the included screws to mount the organizers
- Cut the ring display pad to size and mount it to the case
- Install the foam around the watch and ring display units
- Spend hours deciding how best to organize the collection
- Lock up the case with a pair of padlocks