In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to care for your Rolex watch properly. From cleaning to maintenance, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your Rolex looking and functioning at its best.
**Cleaning Your Rolex:**
Over time, your Rolex watch may accumulate dirt and grime, which can dull its natural shine and affect its functionality. Regular cleaning, when done correctly and with care, can help your Rolex look new for years without the need for professional servicing.
**Special Note for Divers and Sea Enthusiasts:** If you are a diver or enjoy activities in saltwater environments, it’s crucial to remove any salt, sand, or small particles that can accumulate on your watch. These can be abrasive and harm your watch’s components and surface finish.
To make the cleaning process easier, we recommend using our Pride & Pinion Watch Essentials Care Kit, developed in collaboration with Connoisseurs, the World Leaders in Watch & Jewelry Care. This kit includes a Watch Cleaner with a soft bristle brush and a Watch Polishing Cloth.
**The Oyster Case:**
Many Rolex watches feature water-resistant Oyster cases, a hallmark of Rolex’s innovation since 1926. The Oyster case is hermetically sealed, offering optimal protection for the movement and allowing wearers to swim and shower while wearing the watch. Cleaning the Oyster case is relatively straightforward, as it can be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned with soap and water. However, it’s essential to ensure that the crown is tightly screwed down, and the seals are working correctly to prevent water or moisture from entering the case and damaging the movement.
**Important Note:** While the following cleaning instructions are suitable for most Rolex models, vintage and Cellini collections may require different treatment. Cellini watches do not feature Oyster cases, and older vintage models may need a reseal and pressure test to ensure waterproof integrity. Vintage models might even require specific parts replacement or servicing for a fully functioning pressure seal.
**Bracelet Removal:**
Depending on the level of dirt and grime buildup, it might be advisable to remove the bracelet from your Rolex to access hard-to-reach areas, such as between the lugs on the case and the inner surface of the bracelet end links. Even with the bracelet removed, certain areas, like underneath the bezel, may still be inaccessible, but these areas will typically be addressed during a professional mechanical service.
**5 Easy Steps for Cleaning Your Rolex Watch:**
This cleaning process is suitable for any water-resistant stainless steel watch.
**Step 1: Secure the Crown**
Ensure that the crown is fully closed and screwed down tightly. This is vital to maintain the water resistance of your Rolex. If you have any doubts about the seal on the Oyster case, avoid exposing it to water and simply wipe it with a dry cloth.
**Step 2: Prepare a Bowl of Clean, Warm Water**
Fill a bowl with clean, warm water. Submerge your watch and bracelet into the bowl or rinse it under a low-pressure tap or faucet. Dip a soft bristle brush into warm water, apply a small amount of cleanser (about the size of a pea), and use the brush to create a lather on the watch’s surface.
**Step 3: Scrub with a Soft Bristle Brush**
Use an extra-soft toothbrush or the brush provided in our Pride & Pinion Watch Essentials Care Kit to gently scrub the watch’s surface. Focus on removing dirt and grime from the small gaps between the bracelet links, bezel, and lugs.
**Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly**
After scrubbing, rinse the watch thoroughly with fresh, clean water. It’s essential to ensure that there is no soap residue or dirt particles left behind. For watches with rotating bezels (such as Rolex Submariner, GMT Master, Sky-Dweller, or Sea-Dweller), rotate the bezel while rinsing to ensure complete removal of soap residue underneath it.
**Step 5: Dry with a Microfiber Cloth**
Once cleaned, use a microfiber cloth to dry your watch thoroughly. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry to avoid disrupting the natural finish of the metal. You can also wipe down your watch daily with a soft cloth to maintain its shine and remove surface grime.
**Additional Care Tips:**
– If you wear your Rolex daily, consider giving it a deep clean at least once a month. Daily wiping to remove moisture, such as sweat, lotion, or aftershave, is also advisable.
– For deeper marks or scratches, consider refinishing your Rolex. Our trusted Rolex refinishing specialist can help restore your watch’s appearance.
In conclusion, caring for your Rolex watch is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular cleaning, proper maintenance, and periodic servicing will keep your Rolex looking and functioning like the masterpiece it is.
