Cleaning Your Rolex

We here at Swiss Wrist recommend having a professional clean your watch. Our Cleaning and Servicing package is $350 and will have your watch looking like new, but if you are going to venture into the cleaning supply closet yourself, here are some tips on how to do the job right!

If you own a Rolex, you take care of your Rolex. Whether it is a family heirloom, your first, or your latest conquest. Your Rolex commands attention when worn. Keeping it well-maintained will ensure it is functional and beautiful for generations.

Like any well-worn piece of expertly crafted functional fashion, it will build-up dirt, grime, and microscopic particles. Not only will the gunk and junk cause it to lose its luster, but it will also cause serious mechanical failures. To ensure your Rolex never looks older than you did at 22, follow these steps.

How to Clean a Rolex (Waterproof)

Again, you should have a professional check it every 8-10 years or so. (Contact Swiss Wrist)

Here are the things you need and steps to take to clean your Rolex:

  • Microfiber cleaning cloth
  • Bowl of warm water
  • Mild soap
  • Soft-bristled brush

Steps:

These steps are for waterproof Rolex watches equipped with Oyster cases.  Do not follow these steps if your watch is not waterproof! It will not end well…

Make sure the crown is properly screwed down. If not, apply light pressure and screw it clockwise until it is tight. Otherwise you will be inviting moisture and dirt to the inner workings of your Rolex and will need to seek that professional sooner than later with your newly damaged the timepiece.

Once you are ready, get your bowl of warm water, put a small drop of mild soap on your brush, and begin to gently scrub all surfaces, bit by bit.  Take your time and make sure you get in between your links. Small links can be trickier, so play some good tunes to enjoy the process.  Reapply soap as needed.

We recommend going over each surface 2-3 times.  But if you are not mud wrestling 1-2 will do.

Once you finish this, go ahead and rinse the watch under the faucet with warm running water to get all of the soap and newly loosened grime off.  Make sure it is all off as the soap can tarnish the steel if left behind.

Take a little extra time if your watch has a rotating bezel. Rotate the bezel while the watch is under running water to help knock things loose in the tight space under the bezel assembly.

Lastly, break out your clean cloth to dry thoroughly, but gently to preserve the natural surface.

The best way to clean a non waterproof Rolex is to simply use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away dirt and light grim.  You can dab the cloth in water to clean the band more thoroughly but never submerge the watch in water.

If you follow these simple guidelines your watch will remain the envy of those you meet. Just remember to see a professional for some deep cleaning every 8-10 years. So, congrats on your purchase and enjoy looking sharp wherever you go!


Contact Us below if you have any questions or would like to book a servicing with us!