Luxury watches are made with top precision, quality materials, and meticulous engineering. The love and care that goes into each luxury timepiece ensures that the watch stands harsh elements and the test of time.
However, over time, dirt, sweat, and grime sneak into every nook and cranny, dulling the sparkle and potentially affecting its performance. Nobody wants a timepiece that looks like it’s been through a mud race.
Thus, your watch needs a bit of tender loving care from time to time. Cleaning your watch regularly keeps it looking beautiful. In addition, it helps protect your investment and ensures it lasts for years.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know on how to clean a watch—from basic maintenance to tackling the tough stuff. Your timepiece will thank you, and so will anyone catching a glimpse of it on your wrist.
Signs That Your Watch Needs Cleaning
When do you know when your luxury timepiece needs cleaning? Here’s how you can identify when your watch needs cleaning:
- Visible dirt or grime: Check for accumulated dirt, dust, or grime on the watch case, strap, or clasp. Pay special attention to areas such as the crevices of the bezel, bracelet links, or underside of the case.
- Unusual smell: Leather or fabric straps can absorb sweat, oils, and environmental debris over time, which produce unpleasant odors. A regular cleaning may be overdue if you notice a smell.
- Reduced shine: If your watch looks dull, especially on metal surfaces, it’s likely due to fingerprints, sweat, and general wear dulling its finish.
- Stiff or sticky movement: A bracelet that feels stiff or a clasp that sticks could indicate accumulated debris interfering with the mechanics.
- Irritation or skin issues: Prolonged wear of a dirty watch can trap bacteria, which might lead to skin irritation or discomfort. This is definitely a clear signal that it’s time for your luxury watch to undergo a thorough cleaning.
- Water spots or streaks: watches exposed to water, particularly untreated water, may show watermarks, especially on polished surfaces or crystals.
- Performance issues: For mechanical watches, if you notice timekeeping errors or issues winding the crown, it may need professional internal cleaning in addition to external care.
What Do You Need to Clean a Watch
For regular cleaning, you only need a few simple tools and materials to ensure a safe and thorough process. Here's a list:
- Soft, lint-free watch cleaning cloth: Used for wiping down the case, strap, and crystal. A microfiber cloth works best to avoid scratches and remove smudges.
- Soft-bristled brush: A small, soft-bristled brush (e.g., a baby toothbrush or a makeup brush) is ideal for cleaning crevices and intricate details without scratching the surface.
- Mild soap or watch cleaner: Choose a gentle, non-abrasive soap or a specialized watch cleaning solution. Avoid harsh detergents or alcohol-based cleaners to protect the materials.
- Distilled water: Use distilled water instead of tap water to prevent mineral deposits or spotting, especially if your watch is water-resistant.
- Wooden or plastic toothpick: Useful for gently prying dirt and debris from tight spaces such as the bezel or between bracelet links.
- Soft towels or cushioning: Place your watch on a soft, padded surface to protect it during cleaning, especially if you're handling a delicate luxury piece.
- Compressed air can: To remove dust and debris from intricate, delicate, or hard-to reach areas, a short burst of compressed air can be helpful.
- Leather cleaner and conditioner: If your watch has a leather strap, use a specialized leather cleaner and conditioner to clean and preserve the material.
- Small bowl and Q-tips: For soaking removable parts like metal bracelets and for spot-cleaning tight areas, Q-tips are perfect for precision.
- Watchmaker's tools: For deeper cleaning, you may need tools like a spring bar remover to detach the strap or bracelet. Only use these if you're confident in your skills.
How To Clean a Luxury Watch: Regular Routine
Keeping your luxury watch clean is quite a simple process. A regular cleaning routine ensures that your watch's beauty and functionality are maintained for a long time. Follow these steps for safe and effective routine cleaning:
1. Inspect the watch: Examine the watch for dirt, smudges, or any loose parts. If the watch isn’t water-resistant or waterproof, avoid using liquids near the case and focus on dry cleaning methods.
2. Remove the strap: If possible, detach the strap or bracelet from the watch case. This makes cleaning each part easier and prevents water from entering non-water-resistant areas.
3. Clean the case:
- Water-resistant watches: Dampen the microfiber cloth with soapy water and gently wipe the case, paying attention to crevices. Use the soft-bristled brush for harder-to-reach areas like around the bezel and lugs.
- Non-water-resistant watches: Use a dry or lightly damp microfiber cloth to clean the case. Avoid liquid contact with the crown or case back.
4. Clean the strap.
- Metal bracelets: Soak in soapy water for a few minutes then use the soft-bristled brush to clean between links. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a towel.
- Leather straps: Use a leather cleaner to gently clean the strap. Avoid soaking the leather, as this can cause damage.
- Fabric/nylon straps: Wash gently with soap and water, then let air dry completely.
5. Dry thoroughly: Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove moisture from the case and strap. Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling or wearing the watch.
6. Buff for shine: Finish by buffing the watch case and crystal with a clean microfiber cloth to restore its luster. You may also use a polishing compound that is compatible with your watch.
7. Perform a quick inspection: Once cleaned, check that all parts are secure, and make sure there’s no moisture trapped in the watch or strap.
Perform this cleaning routine once every 1 to 2 weeks. If you're wearing your watch while doing physical activities (e.g., engaging in sports, outdoor activities, exercising in the gym, etc.), you may need to clean your watch daily. Regular cleaning prevents grime buildup and keeps your luxury timepiece looking its best.
How to Clean the Watch Case and Crystal
Keep your watch case and crystal spotless, brilliant, and scratch-free! Follow these steps for safe and effective cleaning:
1. Clean the watch case.
- Water-resistant case
- Mix a drop of mild soap in lukewarm water.
- Dip the soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the case, focusing on areas such as the bezel, lugs, and crown.
- Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the soap residue.
- Rinse the case under light running water if permitted by its water-resistance rating. Make sure that no soap remains.
- Non-water-resistant case
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with soapy water and wring it out thoroughly.
- Wipe the case gently, avoiding the crown, case back, and other vulnerable areas.
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove moisture immediately.
2. Clean the crystal.
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with distilled water or a gentle cleaning solution.
- Wipe the crystal in circular motions to remove smudges, fingerprints, and dirt.
- For stubborn grime, use the corner of the cloth or a Q-tip dampened with soapy water to target specific areas.
- Buff the crystal with a dry microfiber cloth to achieve a streak-free shine.
3. Remove stubborn dirt: For tight crevices, use a toothpick or a soft-bristled brush. Work gently to avoid scratching the surface.
4. Dry thoroughly: Ensure the case and crystal are completely dry using a microfiber cloth. Pay extra attention to the crown area to prevent water from seeping in.
Tips for Care
- Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the finish or crystal.
- If your crystal is sapphire or has an anti-reflective coating, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners that can damage the surface.
How To Deep Clean Your Watch
For a very dirty watch with crusted dirt, yellowed crystals, and stubborn gunk, you'll need a more intensive approach.
1. Gather advanced cleaning supplies: For this level of cleaning, you'll need:
- A soft-bristled brush (baby toothbrush or jewelry cleaning brush)
- A magnifying glass or loupe for inspecting tough spots
- Mild soap or watch-specific cleaning solution
- A wooden toothpick or interdental brush for hard-to-reach areas
- Isopropyl alcohol (90%) for disinfecting (only for metal parts)
- Cotton swabs and microfiber cloths
- Distilled water for rinsing
- A polishing cloth or cream (for metal and crystal restoration)
- Ultrasonic cleaner (for metal bracelets only, not the watch case)
2. Disassemble where possible.
- Remove the strap or bracelet: Detach it from the case for separate cleaning.
- Do not open the case: Leave the cleaning of internal components to a professional.
3. Pre-soak the watch bracelet: for metal bracelets, soak them in warm, soapy water for 15 to 30 minutes to loosen the grime. Do not soak the watch case unless it is water-resistant and rated for immersion.
4. Address the watch case.
- Use a dry toothbrush or interdental brush to dislodge loose dirt from the bezel, lugs, and crown area.
- Wipe the watch with a cloth dipped in soapy water. Take care to prevent water from ingressing into non-water-resistant areas.
- Gently scrape off stubborn buildup using a toothpick or interdental brush. Use a gentle pressure to avoid scratching the surface.
- Lightly dab isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab and clean the exterior, ensuring no liquid seeps into the case.
5. Clean the crystal.
- For yellowed or cloudy crystals, use a small amount of a non-abrasive polishing compound like Polywatch or a jewelry polishing cream.
- Gunk in edges: Use a wooden toothpick or soft brush to clear debris around the edges of the crystal and bezel.
6. Deep clean the bracelet or strap
- Metal Bracelets
- After soaking, scrub each link with a toothbrush and rinse with distilled water.
- Use an ultrasonic cleaner for heavily soiled metal bracelets (not recommended for the watch case).
- Leather Straps
- Gently wipe with a cloth dampened with saddle soap or a leather cleaner.
- Avoid soaking the strap, as water can warp the leather.
- Fabric or Rubber Straps:
- Hand wash in soapy water and scrub with a soft brush.
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
7. Polish and restore the shine.
- Use a polishing cloth or metal polish (make sure this is safe for your watch material) to restore the shine of the case and bracelet.
- Buff the crystal with a microfiber cloth after applying polishing compound.
8. Final steps
- Inspect the watch with a magnifying glass to ensure all dirt and gunk have been removed.
- Dry thoroughly, especially around the crown, bezel, and lugs.
- Reassemble the strap or bracelet securely.
Professional Watch Cleaning: When Should You Seek Professional Help?
While many cleaning tasks can be done at home, certain situations require the expertise of a professional watchmaker or jeweler. Attempting to handle these issues yourself could lead to irreversible damage. Here's when it's time to leave the job to the pros:
1. Water or moisture damage: If you notice condensation inside the crystal or suspect water has entered the watch case, seek immediate professional help. Moisture can damage internal components like the movement, gears, and lubrication. Prompt attention can prevent corrosion and expensive repairs.
2. Dirt in the movement: If dirt, dust, or debris has made its way into the watch movement (indicated by erratic timekeeping or stopping altogether), professional watch cleaning and disassembly are necessary. DIY attempts can compromise and damage the delicate components.
3. Scratched or cracked crystal: While minor scratches on the crystal can often be buffed out at home, deep scratches or cracks need replacement by a professional to ensure a proper seal and maintain water resistance.
4. Damaged case or strap:
- Metal cases: Visible dents or significant scratches may require professional refinishing or polishing.
- Leather straps: Excessively worn or cracked leather should be replaced by a jeweler to ensure a secure fit.
5. Compromised water resistance: If your watch has lost its water resistance due to a loose crown, damaged seals, or case cracks, a professional should reseal and pressure-test the watch to restore its protective capabilities.
6. Heavily tarnished or stuck parts: If parts such as the crown, bezel, or pushers are stuck due to grime or oxidation, forcing them can lead to damage. Professionals can clean and lubricate these components safely.
7. Regular servicing for mechanical watches: Luxury mechanical watches should be professionally serviced every 3 to 5 years. This involves cleaning the movement, replacing worn parts, and ensuring the watch performs at optimal precision.
8. Vintage or heirloom watches: Older or collectible watches require specialized care to preserve their value. A professional will use proper techniques to clean, restore, or repair them without compromising originality.
9. Yellowed or cloudy crystal
If polishing doesn’t restore clarity, a professional watch cleaning may be required to replace the crystal or address underlying issues like UV damage or internal moisture.
Why Professional Watch Cleaning Is Worth It
Professional watchmakers have the tools, knowledge, and experience to safely clean, repair, and restore your timepiece. Entrusting your watch to an expert ensures longevity and preserves its value.
Conclusion
This simple yet comprehensive guide on how to clean a luxury watch will keep your timepiece ticking and beautiful. From routine maintenance to deep cleaning for those stubborn, crusty spots, a little effort goes a long way in ensuring your watch stays reliable, functional, and ready to turn heads.
Regular cleaning a luxury watch is not intimidating. Just remember to avoid shortcuts like harsh chemicals or excessive water exposure. Don’t hesitate to call in the pros when it’s needed.
