A gold watch is more than just a clock. It is more of a piece of jewelry. It bears the wearer’s sense of style and nobility. A person with a gold watch around his wrist radiates his passion for possessions and life.
Like every valuable property or asset, gold watches also require maintenance. Without proper care, they lose their beauty and value over time. Regular use exposes your watch to dirt, oil, and sweat. To prevent the consequences, you must clean your watch regularly.
But for maintenance, you must know how to clean gold watches properly. There are well-established methods practiced by professionals for years to clean gold watches. With the proper tools and preparation, you can perform these methods yourself.
Preparing the Workspace and Gathering Supplies
Proper preparation is the key to a successful gold watch cleaning. Begin by selecting a clean, well-lit, and clutter-free work area. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing any small parts or components during the cleaning process.
Next, gather the necessary supplies:
Cleaning Supplies
- Soft, Lint-Free Cloths
- Mild, Non-Abrasive Soap Or Watch Cleaning Solution
- Soft-Bristled Brush
- Lukewarm Water
- Gold Polishing Cloth
Additional Accessories
- Magnifying Glass
- Tweezers
- Padded Surface Or Tray
By having all the required tools and materials on hand, you can ensure a smooth and efficient cleaning process, minimizing the risk of damaging your precious gold watch.
Cleaning the Watch Case and Bracelet
Begin the cleaning process by addressing the exterior of the watch, focusing on the case and bracelet.
Dust Removal
Start by gently wiping the watch case and bracelet with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any surface dust or fingerprints. Be sure to apply light pressure to avoid scratching the gold surface.
Mild Soap and Water Solution
If the watch is particularly dirty or has built-up grime, you can create a mild soap and water solution. Combine a small amount of gentle, non-abrasive soap (such as liquid hand soap or dish soap) with lukewarm water in a clean bowl.
Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush or watch cleaning brush into the solution and gently scrub the case and bracelet, taking care to reach all the nooks and crannies.
Rinsing and Drying
After scrubbing, use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe away any remaining soap residue. Be sure to dry the watch thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth to prevent water spots or damage to the internal mechanisms.
Caution for Water-Resistant Watches
If your gold watch is water-resistant, you can carefully rinse the case and bracelet under lukewarm running water. However, avoid submerging the entire watch, as this could compromise the water-resistance seals and potentially damage the internal components.
Dry the watch thoroughly after rinsing.
Cleaning the Watch Face and Crystal
Premium watches like iced out or bust down gold watches usually come with diamonds or other valuable crystals on their faces. The watch face and crystals require special attention, as these delicate components can be easily damaged if not cleaned properly.
Gentle Wiping
Using a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe the watch face and crystal to remove any smudges, fingerprints, or dust. Apply light pressure and avoid pressing too hard, as this could scratch the surface.
Avoid Liquid Cleaners
It’s crucial to avoid getting any liquid cleaners, water, or moisture on the watch face or inside the case, as this could compromise the internal mechanisms. If your watch is not water-resistant, refrain from using any liquid-based cleaning methods on the face and crystal.
Specialized Glass Cleaner (Optional)
For watches with a sapphire crystal or other specialized glass, you can use a small amount of a gentle, non-abrasive glass cleaner specifically designed for watches.
Apply the cleaner to a soft, lint-free cloth and gently wipe the crystal. Be sure to avoid getting any of the cleaners on the watch case or other components.
Cleaning the Watch Strap or Bracelet
The strap or bracelet of your gold watch can also accumulate dirt, oils, and other residues over time, so it’s important to clean this component as well.
Leather Strap Cleaning
If your watch has a leather strap, use a small amount of a mild, leather-safe cleaner or conditioner. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub the strap, taking care not to oversaturate the leather.
Wipe away any excess with a clean, dry cloth and allow the strap to air dry completely before reattaching it to the watch.
Metal Bracelet Cleaning
For a metal bracelet, use the same mild soap and water solution you used for the watch case. Gently scrub the bracelet with a soft-bristled brush, paying close attention to the spaces between the links.
Rinse the bracelet thoroughly with a damp cloth and dry it completely with a clean, soft towel.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
Regardless of the strap or bracelet material, always steer clear of harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish or cause discoloration.
Polishing the Gold
Once the watch case, face, and strap or bracelet have been thoroughly cleaned, you can move on to polishing the gold to restore its lustrous shine.
Gold Polishing Cloth
Gently rub a gold polishing cloth over the gold surfaces of the watch, using small, circular motions. Apply light pressure and avoid excessive rubbing, as this can wear down the gold over time.
Specialty Gold Cleaning Solutions
For stubborn tarnish or discoloration, you can use a small amount of a specialized gold cleaning solution. Apply the solution to a soft, lint-free cloth and gently dab it onto the affected areas. Rinse the area thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth and dry completely.
Avoid Abrasive Polishes
Steer clear of toothpaste, baking soda, or other abrasive materials, as these can scratch the gold surface and damage the watch’s finish.
Conclusion
Maintaining the beauty and functionality of your gold watch requires balancing regular at-home cleaning and professional servicing. By following these cleaning methods – from gentle dusting to careful polishing – you can preserve your timepiece’s beauty and functionality for years to come.
Remember, a well-cared-for gold watch isn’t just a timekeeping device; it’s a cherished accessory that reflects your style and appreciation for fine craftsmanship. With regular, mindful cleaning, your gold watch will continue to shine as brightly as the day you first wore it, marking not just time, but the moments that matter in your life.