Yesterday I posted before and after pictures of my “old” Tag Heuer Link watch. I’ve had it about six years. Up until yesterday, it was looking pretty tired. After its makeover, it looks like new. Check out the before and after pictures – click the image and zoom in to get a better view of the transformation.
So the question is – how did I do it?
I’m about to tell you. Like a good movie, there will be moments of shock…disbelief…trepidation…excitement…and gratification.
First – a couple of warnings and disclaimers. The process that I’m about to describe is for a brushed stainless steel watch. The process for a polished stainless steel watch is different. Second – I DO suggest that you try this at home, but we can’t take responsibility for any mishaps. Perhaps it’s best to test out the process on an inexpensive watch before you work on the Rolex, Cartier, Tag, Breitling, or Panerai.
Let’s start with the before picture. Six years of hard wear had this watch looking scuffed and scratched.
Step 1: Take a nail “buffing block” to your watch. What? Really? Yes. Really. This buffing block is small, flexible, and easy to maneuver. I started out with “Side 1.” Brush/buff the watch lengthwise. Buff in straight lines – no circles, no random patterns – just straight, buckle towards case. Long or short strokes are fine. Start with light pressure and gradually increase it as you develop the feel. This process will get you 90% of the way there. (This is all it takes – note: don’t try the emery boards – not sure what that would do!)
As I said, that gets you 90% of there way there. Check out the results. Not bad for $3.99 and 5 minutes of work! (Again, click on the picture and zoom in to see the results).
For most people, that’ll do. But we wanted to test out a couple of other techniques to see if we could do better.
Step 2: Scotch Brite Pads. These are coarse pads that you can find at the grocery or hardware store. Our 3-pack cost us $4.79, but I bet you could find them cheaper. Use the same technique with these as you did with the buffing block. Straight, lengthwise strokes on the band. Adjust your pressure as necessary.
After about 5 minutes with the Scotch-Brite pads there was additional improvement. Check out the results.
Not too shabby! Still not satisfied? Fine. Onto the most nerve-wracking part (don’t worry – you and your watch will be fine)!
Step 3: Sanding Sponge with 150 grit. Yep. You’re going to sand your watch. I hate to sound like a broken record, but you’re going to use straight, lengthwise strokes on the band. Adjust pressure as you get comfortable.
Another $6 and 5 minutes later, these are the results:
Wow! Looks just about new! Don’t forget to give it a good cleaning when you’re done. There will be plenty of built up dust and dirt. To clean it, I recommend three things. First, an old tooth brush with soap and water. Second, Cape Cod metal polishing cloths. Third, a dry microfiber jewelry polishing cloth.
After a total of about 20 minutes your watch will look brand new. In all honesty, you could probably start with the sanding sponge and get the job done in less than 10 minutes!!
This will not replace a great, professional cleaning – watchmakers will take the watch apart and do an amazing job. However, this WILL tide you over in between polishings.
I would love to see your before and after pics. Did you get the results that you wanted? Share your tips and tricks.
