Owning a Rolex is a significant investment, and it deserves to be treated like the treasure it is. To keep your timepiece functional, beautiful, and well-maintained for years to come, it's essential to know how to clean it properly. Regular cleaning is one of the best ways to preserve both its appearance and value.
Over time, grime, dirt, and tiny particles can accumulate on your watch, making it look aged and unappealing. Additionally, these particles can interfere with the watch's mechanics if they penetrate its inner workings. To maintain your Rolex in pristine condition, follow this straightforward guide on how to clean it.
Cleaning Your Rolex
While periodic maintenance should be entrusted to professionals at a reputable jewelry store or Rolex repair service—ideally every 10 years—owners can handle external cleaning on their own.
Here are the steps for cleaning your Rolex:
You Will Need:
- Bowl of warm water
- Soft-bristled brush
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- Mild soap
Steps:
- Check the Crown: Ensure the crown is securely screwed down. If it’s not, press it gently and turn it clockwise until tight. This step is crucial for maintaining the watch's waterproofing. Any looseness can allow water, dirt, and moisture to enter and damage the mechanism.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Materials: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a drop of mild soap to your soft-bristled brush. Wet one end of the Rolex bracelet with warm water and use the soapy brush to lather it up. If you don’t have a bowl, you can hold one side of the bracelet under running warm water from the faucet.
- Scrub the Rolex: Gently scrub the surfaces, paying special attention to the small gaps between the lugs and bracelet links. Repeat the process on the other side.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the watch under warm running water to remove any loose particles and soap residue. Make sure no soap remains, as it can tarnish the steel and dull its shine. If your watch features a rotating bezel, like the Submariner or GMT-Master, rotate the bezel several times while rinsing to ensure no soap gets trapped underneath.
- Dry the Watch: Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the watch. A microfiber cloth is ideal as it won’t scratch the surface or disturb the natural finish.
Special Care for the Cellini Collection and Vintage Models
The cleaning steps above are not suitable for all Rolex watches. For instance, watches from the Cellini Collection do not have the Oyster cases that provide waterproof capabilities. Similarly, vintage models may require specific care to maintain their waterproof integrity.
For vintage Rolexes or those from the Cellini Collection, avoid using soapy water entirely. Instead, use a dry, soft cloth to wipe away loose dirt. If dirt is stubborn, you can slightly dampen the cloth for careful cleaning, but never submerge these watches in water.
Conclusion
Knowing how to clean your Rolex is an essential skill for every owner. Additionally, learning to polish your watch can further ensure that it retains its luster and value over time. By following these guidelines, you can keep your Rolex looking its best for years to come.
