How to clean your luxury watches
Exquisite timepieces are an investment, a mark of sophistication, and often, a treasured heirloom. To keep your luxury watch in pristine condition, regular cleaning is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you maintain the brilliance of your cherished timepieces.
1. GATHER YOUR CLEANING SUPPLIES
Before diving into the cleaning process, ensure you have the right tools. Rapport's cleaning kit removes the hassle of collecting these tools individually, combining quality with practicality. Take a look here.
The Rapport cleaning kit includes:
- A watch cleaning spray
- A watch polishing cloth
- A metal polishing cloth
- A cleaning brush
The specialised set of cleaning materials ensures the meticulous maintenance and care of your luxury timepieces. Effortlessly remove dirt and grime that builds up over wear. It is ideal for gold, platinum, silver and stainless steel watches.
2. PREPARE YOUR WATCH
Remove the Strap: If your watch has a detachable strap, remove it. This is especially important for leather straps, which should not be soaked in water.
Check the Water Resistance: Ensure your watch is water-resistant before using any liquid. If unsure, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or take it to a professional.
3. CLEANING THE WATCH CASE
For Metal Cases:
- Initial Wipe: Use our dry metal polishing microfiber cloth to wipe away any surface dust or dirt.
- Watch Spray: Use our Rapport spray. Dip the soft-bristled toothbrush provided in the Rapport cleaning kit into the solution and gently scrub the watch case, focusing on the crevices and the back of the case.
- Rinse and Dry: Lightly dampen the microfiber cloth and wipe off any spray residue. Dry the watch case thoroughly with a lint-free towel.
For Gold or Platinum Cases:
- Soft Touch: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of our Rapport spray.
- Rinse and Dry: Carefully wipe away any spray with a damp cloth and dry with a soft, lint-free towel.
4. CLEANING THE WATCH BRACELET
For Metal Bracelets:
- Scrub: Spritz lightly with our Rapport watch spray. Use the soft-bristled toothbrush provided in our kit to clean between the links.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse and dry with our watch polishing microfiber cloth.
For Leather Straps:
- Wipe Down: Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe the strap. Avoid soaking.
- Condition: Apply a small amount of leather conditioner with a soft cloth to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.
For Rubber or Fabric Straps:
- Scrub: Use our Rapport spray and a toothbrush to gently scrub the strap.
- Dry: Pat dry with a towel.
5. CLEANING THE WATCH DIAL AND CRYSTAL
Avoid Direct Water Contact: Never immerse the dial in water. Instead:
- Dust Removal: Use a dry, soft-bristled brush to remove any dust. Rapport's cleaning brush works perfectly.
- Crystal Cleaning: Dampen our microfiber cloth with a small amount of our specialised watch cleaning spray. Wipe the crystal gently to remove smudges and fingerprints.
6. FINAL TOUCHES
Polish: For metal watches, you can use our Rapport watch cloth to add extra shine. Be careful not to polish too vigorously as it might wear down the metal over time.
Reassemble: Once everything is clean and dry, reattach the strap to the watch case.
7. PROFESSIONAL MAINTENANCE
While regular cleaning is essential, luxury watches also require professional servicing. It’s recommended to take your watch to an authorised service centre every 3-5 years for a thorough inspection and maintenance.
8. STORAGE TIPS WITH RAPPORT
Proper storage is just as crucial as cleaning. At Rapport, we offer premium watch boxes and watch winders designed to protect and preserve your luxury timepieces.
Rapport Watch Boxes:
- Secure Storage: Our watch boxes provide a safe, cushioned environment to prevent scratches and damage.
- Elegant Design: Crafted with the finest materials, our watch boxes are as stylish as the watches they protect.
Take a look at our best selling watch boxes here
Rapport Watch Winders:
- Automatic Movement: Keep your automatic watches running smoothly, even when not in use.
- Precision Engineering: Our watch winders are designed to replicate natural wrist movement, ensuring your watch remains accurate and in top condition.
Take a look at our best selling watch winders here
Proper Storage: Store your watch in a dry, cool place, preferably in a Rapport watch box or winder to prevent scratches and damage.
Avoid Magnets: Keep your watch away from magnetic sources, as they can affect its accuracy.
Regular Wear: Wearing your watch regularly helps keep the movement lubricated and prevents the oils from drying out.
Cleaning and properly storing your luxury watch is a delicate but rewarding process. With the right tools and a gentle touch, you can keep your timepiece looking as stunning as the day you bought it. At Rapport, we're here to help you preserve the beauty and functionality of your luxury watches with our premium watch boxes and winders. Explore our collection today and give your treasured timepieces the care they deserve. Happy cleaning!