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How to clean your watch?
Cleaning your watch regularly is an essential step for to keep a room in perfect condition, Preserve the watch's mechanism and ensure its longevity. Regardless of the watch's value, each use exposes the case and strap to dust, sweat, cosmetic residue, and microparticles that can damage the metal, ceramic, or leather over time. Here is a detailed method for succeed in this interview effectively and safely.
The importance of regular cleaning
Cleaning your watch is... prolong life by preserving the brilliance of its materials, guaranteeing the precision of its mechanism and preventing the appearance of malfunctions or premature signs of wear.
Regular cleaning helps to to maintain its aesthetic beauty and preserve its heritage value of your timepiece. This gesture also limits the risk of bacteria accumulation, particularly around the wrist.
Materials needed to clean your watch
The necessary equipment will vary depending on the type of bracelet and the watch's water resistance level:
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A soft toothbrush or a Special watch brush.
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A lint-free microfiber cloth.
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Warm water.
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Mild (neutral) liquid soap
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Cotton swabs, toothpicks or even a blower for hard-to-reach places.
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Antibacterial wipes for silicone, metal or rubber bracelets.
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For leather bracelets: a specific leather cream or a suitable moisturizing cleansing milk.
Cleaning methods according to the watch's water resistance level
Waterproof watch (water resistant):
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Remove the bracelet if the model allows it, in order to clean the case separately and attach it.
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Before any wet operation, ensure that the crown and pushers are screwed in or closed.
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Dampen the soft brushAdd a little soap and gently rub the case, glass, lugs and strap (metal or rubber).
- Rinse with clean water without applying too much pressure, and dry meticulously with a soft cloth.
- After swimming in the sea or pool, rinse the watch exclusively with fresh water to avoid corrosion and salt deposits.
Classic watch (not waterproof):
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Clean the case and bracelet using a slightly damp microfiber clothNever immerse or rinse directly under water.
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Use cotton swabs for the bracelet's parts, horns, or fasteners.
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If the watch has a leather strap, apply a special leather product, avoiding excessive wetting to prevent weakening the material.
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If there is any doubt about the water resistance (old watch, seals used), only dry or very slightly wet cleaning is recommended.
Common mistakes to avoid when maintaining your watch
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Never use harsh chemicals or solvents, which may scratch the glass or damage the materials and seals.
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Do not open the case yourself: only a professional is authorized to intervene on the internal movement, clean the components or lubricate.
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Avoid direct jets of water and steam, even on a watch advertised as waterproof, in order not to damage the joints or the integrity of the movement.
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Avoid cleaning under large temperature variations, which could weaken the case or bracelet.
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Never clean a leather bracelet with water; use only suitable products and dry it carefully in the open air, away from heat sources.
Have your watch serviced by a professional
A professional cleaning and overhaul are at plan every 3 to 5 years. The watchmaker disassembles the watch, cleans each component, lubricates the gears, and tests the water resistance, thus prolonging the life of the movement and preventing wear invisible to the naked eye. This is an essential step for valuable watches, complicated models, or those worn daily.
Additional tips for preserving your watch
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Always remove the watch before any intense sporting activity, swimming in the sea or in a swimming pool if it is not designed for this type of use.
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Store the watch protected from moisture, heat and temperature variations.
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Regularly check the condition of the seals and the crown with a specialist, especially for waterproof models.
On the same topic, you might also like to read
How to take care of your watch?
COSC, Poiçon de Genève, understanding watch certifications