At Kettle Club, we’re more than just a luxury watch retailer; we’re a community of watch enthusiasts who take the upkeep of our timepieces very seriously! In this guide, we’ll explore the cleaning and maintenance of our signature Rolex watches, helping you keep yours in top condition.
This isn’t just a regular wristwatch; it’s a Rolex. Crafted with precision and intricately designed using robust, high-quality materials, Rolex watches are shining examples of watchmaking expertise. But how do you keep these luxury timepieces in pristine condition?
- Assemble Your Cleaning Supplies
First of all, you don’t need any specialised equipment to clean your Rolex. In fact, everyday household items can become your cleaning toolkit. Here’s what you’d need: a mild, non-detergent soap, a soft toothbrush (ideally one for children), a soft, microfibre cloth, and a small bowl.
Mild soap is used to ensure that no harsh chemicals that could disrupt the look and integrity of your Rolex get to it. The delicate bristles of the toothbrush work wonders getting into those tricky nooks and crannies. And when it comes to drying, nothing fits the bill better than a microfibre cloth.
- Prepare The Watch
Once you’ve got your cleaning tools lined up, it’s time to prep the watch for the cleaning procedure. Check that the Rolex winding crown and any push-buttons are tightly screwed down, as no water should get into the internal machinery. For Submariner models, this step is doubly important! Check the condition of the case, the glass, and the crown. If any of these components look loose or damaged, it’s probably safer to contact a professional watch cleaner.
- The Cleaning Process
Once your Rolex is prepped, it’s time to clean. Start by dampening your soft toothbrush with lukewarm water. Be wary not to drench your Rolex in water; it’s a dampening, not a soaking! Make a gentle foamy mix in a small bowl using lukewarm water and mild soap. Then, using the toothbrush, apply this lather on your watch. Scrub gently but steadily, paying attention to the places that your eyes might overlook: the lug areas, the case back, the sides of the bracelet, the clasp area, and underneath the bracelet.
- Rinsing and Drying
Once you have finished scrubbing away the dirt, carefully rinse the watch under tepid water to wash off any remnants of soap. Use the microfibre cloth to pat dry your Rolex watch. Air drying is also an option, but make sure it’s in a moisture-free, secure environment.
- Regular Quick Cleans
If you wear your Rolex daily, consider wiping it down with a soft, dry cloth at the end of each day. This helps remove sweat, dust, or smudges and prevents the accumulation of dirt over time.
While this guide offers a safe way to keep your Rolex watch clean, it’s important to stress that these cleaning methods aren’t substitutes for professional servicing, which Rolex recommends every 5 years.
Caring for your Rolex is all part of the journey of owning one of these coveted watches. To find out more about how to look after yours, take a look at our How to Care for your Rolex guide.