A simple beautiful object for some and an essential accessory for others, the watch today occupies a special place in our daily lives. Whether you wear a modern watch or have found a vintage model at a flea market, it is essential to take care of it.

Wearing a watch is good, but wearing a clean watch is even better! In this article, Swiss Made Watch Magazine explains to you, step by step, how to properly clean your tocante, whether new or old.

The basics of maintaining a watch

It may seem obvious, but regular cleaning is the key to keeping your watch looking its best.

A daily wipe

• Every evening, get into the habit of wiping a soft cloth over your watch. This simple gesture removes fingerprints, dust and small impurities which can dull the shine of the case or bracelet. Besides, don't forget to give the clasp a little tap!
• Microfiber cloths, often used to clean glasses, are ideal here. They do not damage surfaces and are particularly effective.

Maintain the cloth

• It may sound silly, but a clean cloth is as important as the cleaning itself. So remember to wash your cloth by hand from time to time with a mild soap or put it in the washing machine if the model allows it. This will ultimately prevent you from getting dirt on your watch.

A simple but essential gesture to prolong the shine and life of your watch.

Clean your watch more thoroughly

To go further, occasional cleaning of the case and bracelet is recommended. So here’s how to do it…

Use soapy water

• Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap, like the kind you use to wash your hands. Dampen a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush to clean the watch surfaces.
• For metal or rubber straps, you can immerse them directly in water if your watch is waterproof.

Precautions to take

• If your watch is old, not very waterproof, or made of fragile materials (such as leather), avoid contact with water as much as possible. Use a damp cloth or a cotton swab to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• Always wipe the watch with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water marks and residual moisture.

Don't forget the details

• Clean the gaps around the links, housing, and adjustment knobs (without pressing it). A soft toothbrush or cotton swab can help you reach these small areas.

A thorough cleaning carried out once or twice a month is generally enough to keep your watch impeccable!

Cleaning a really, really dirty watch

In some cases, more extensive intervention may be necessary...

If the watch has gotten wet or damp

• If your watch is not waterproof and has been exposed to water, dry it quickly with a soft cloth and place it in a bowl of rice to absorb the moisture (much like you would with a dropped smartphone in the fleet).
• In the event of significant infiltration, immediately consult a watchmaker to avoid any risk of irreversible damage, particularly to the mechanism and dial.

A very dirty or vintage watch

• If you have just purchased an old watch or if your watch seems beyond repair with simple cleaning, consider a complete disassembly.
• A competent watchmaker will be able to disassemble each part, clean them individually and possibly repair any damaged elements.
• For experienced amateurs, it is possible to purchase specific cleaning kits, but this requires experience and specific tools.

Extreme cleaning is (most of the time) not something you should undertake yourself unless you have watchmaking skills.

Ultimately, a watch is a bit like clothing. You wouldn't wear a dirty t-shirt, would you? So why do it differently with your tocante? By adopting these few simple actions and being vigilant, you will be able to enjoy your favorite watch for a long time, while preserving its shine and value.

A simple cleaning was not enough to restore the desired shine to your timepiece? To go further, quickly find out how to remove scratches from your watch!