How to Fix Scratches on a Watch
Even the most careful watch owners may find scratches appearing on their beloved timepieces over time. These marks are normal, but they can diminish the appearance of your luxury watch, whether you wear it as a daily accessory or the watch is part of a carefully curated collection.
While some scratches add character, many can be minimised or removed to restore your watch’s original look. In this guide, we’ll explore how to fix scratches on a watch and what methods work best for different materials.
Understand the Type of Scratch
Before trying to repair any scratches, it’s important to assess the type of scratch on your watch. Fine, surface-level scratches can often be polished away, while deeper ones may require professional attention. The material of your watch—whether it’s stainless steel, gold, or sapphire crystal—will also affect the method of repair.
How to Remove Scratches from a Watch Case and Bracelet
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials used in luxury watches, but it’s still prone to scratches. Here’s how to handle light surface marks. Note that for gouges and deeper scratches, you will need to professional servicing.
- Gather Your Tools: For light scratches, you’ll need a high-quality polishing cloth designed for metal, or a polishing kit specifically made for stainless steel watches. Be sure the cloth is non-abrasive to avoid further damage.
- Clean the Watch: Before you begin, clean the case and bracelet with a microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or oils. This ensures that the polishing process is smooth and free from debris that could cause more scratches.
- Polish in a Circular Motion: Using the polishing cloth, gently rub the scratched areas in small, circular motions. Apply light pressure and avoid over-polishing, as this can alter the original finish of your watch.
- Buff with a Clean Cloth: Once the scratches have faded, buff the area with a clean microfiber cloth to restore the shine.
Note: Be careful not to over-polish the case or bracelet, as it can remove too much material and affect the original finish.
Gold
Gold, whether yellow, white, or rose, is a softer metal and requires a more delicate touch.
- Use a Jeweller’s Cloth: Opt for a jeweller’s polishing cloth that is safe for gold. These cloths are treated with a mild abrasive that is gentle on the surface.
- Avoid Over-Polishing: Gold is easily worn down, so it’s important to polish sparingly. For deeper scratches, it’s often best to take your watch to a professional, as gold can lose its shape or become thinner with too much polishing.
How to Fix Scratches on the Watch Crystal
Acrylic Crystal
Acrylic crystals are often found on vintage watches, and while they’re prone to scratching, they’re relatively easy to fix.
- Use PolyWatch or Toothpaste: For acrylic crystals, products like PolyWatch are designed specifically to buff out scratches. If you don’t have access to PolyWatch, non-abrasive toothpaste can also be used.
- Apply a Small Amount: Put a small dab of PolyWatch or toothpaste onto the scratch and use a soft cloth to buff in circular motions. This process can take several minutes, but with patience, the scratch will become less noticeable or disappear entirely.
Tips for Preventing Scratches in the Future
While scratches are inevitable with regular use, there are steps you can take to minimize their occurrence:
- Store Your Watch Carefully: When not wearing your watch, store it in a protective case or on a soft surface to prevent accidental scratches.
- Avoid Contact with Hard Surfaces: Be mindful of where you rest your wrist, as metal surfaces or rough materials can easily leave marks on your watch.
- Use a Watch Guard: For extra protection, especially when travelling, you can apply a thin, transparent film or watch guard to the case and crystal to shield it from scratches.
When to Seek Professional Help
For deep scratches or damage to high-end materials, it’s always recommended to seek the help of a professional watch repair service. A skilled technician can restore the finish without compromising the integrity of your timepiece. In some cases, the watch may require refinishing, a delicate process that should only be done by experts to maintain the value and appearance of your luxury watch.