I just did this to my hulk submariner. I am so impressed how fast and easy this is. The finish is the same. I've been into watches a long time. From now on. Watches only go in for movement service. There is no need to have them take off the amount of metal and chew up the lugs shape with professional polishing. This is the way! Thank you!!!
Just did this to my Sub on the clasp with the Scotch cloth. There were so many scuffs on the clasp that were bothering and it took them all out! Literally worked like magic!
Thanks so much for making this video! I was about to send my Submariner off to get scratches buffed out from the previous owner. It's been bugging me so much. Before I sent it off, I decided to do some research and immediately found this video. This was so easy and worked like a charm. Took a little bit of time, but my bracelet looks almost brand new. Thanks again for sharing this! You've saved me a lot of money now and in the future. I won't be so afraid of scuffing up my bracelet now knowing that I can fix it myself.
Don't listen to anyone crying "don't do that!" My AD told me to only move my arm "forward and backwards whilst wearing a rolex, as side-to-side can damage the movement." I shit you not, he even said "whilst" for just that little extra sprinkle of pretentiousness. It's a workhorse tool watch, it's meant to be put through its paces. It's like buying a Ferrari just have it be a garage queen; might as well just visit the dealer/dealership every day if you want to see it pristine and perfect. Glad to see a fellow Sub owner wearing their watch like it's meant to be worn. Cheers from the UK.
Awesome video! Thanks for doing this! I send my rolexes to get fine lines and scratches removed every so often and I’m always charged an arm and a leg. This video saved me a lot of money.
I have found that the nail polishing sponges women use work really well, the ones with four different colour sides blue yellow pink and purple, they are also good for polishing out scratches from plexiglass watch crystals on vintage watches.
What a refreshing change! A guy who treats his Rolex with respect but isn’t precious about it. I’ll not forget the TV auction programme when a guy was told that his rather beat up old Rolex was worth about four times what it would have been worth if he’d had Rolex service it and renew the worn cosmetic parts - bezel, glass etc!
Wonder why all the hate!??! Loved the video and technique; and as you say; it's your watch! Your choice! I'd do the same. Heck, we appreciate good things and we should look after our pride and joy ! I tried using metal polish , followed by a auto detailing polish to finish off with ( using microfibre and polishing cloths) Made the watches look like new!!
Glad to see someone wearing their Rolex and actually enjoying it! I've done a few VERY light polishes in my day, but man you have some guts! Definitely painful to watch, but your watch so I need to mind my own business lol! Enjoy that beautiful ND Sub!
+mark mikhail thanks for checking out out! I wear I every day and honestly I've beat it up pretty well. But hey, you don't buy a corvette to keep it in the garage or buy a boat to keep it docked.
Great video and content. I use to pay $60 for a jeweler to touch up my 2 tone blue sub and it looks brand new when done. Ive been collecting for 15 plus years now, ifrom 2000 on, ive made avg 70% in gains. My 2 tone blue sub was bought preowned in 2000 for $4,300...i sold it for $8,200 in 2008...then bought a Daytona for $7,400...now its worth $14,500 all day...Ive made 100,000 since 2000 on Rolex's ... thats profit...in 2 years i bought a Pepsi in ss, a Hulk, Batman in SS, a 40 DD 18kt yello black face diam markers...a 40 white gold silver face...Yachtmaster 2 blue face 18kt...blue sea dweller and a ss sky ith grey face...8 bad ass rollies for under 100k and they were all paid for by buying smart over 15 years plus...im not a dealer...its not a job...I never need another w atch but ill keep this hobbie going till it dont work.
I do the stainless and the 2tone at home. I use similar technique except on the 2tone i section off the bracelet with desk tape. Instead of the scotch brite pad i was using 1500 wet sand paper lightly. I’m sure all the Rolex nuts would have a heart attack but it’s done me good.😂
Nice job man. Anyone who thinks they need to be brave to do this to their Rolex may have bought a watch that was a bit too expensive for them. I know the debate rages on and on in the forums, but it's just a watch and was meant to be worn...and polished as you've shown. Thanks for the video.
I think this looks fine. You're wise to stay away from the lugs and the crisp edges, that's what really is an eyesore when polished. I ordered a couple of end links for my old Datejust at an AD while on vacation, and they offered to put them on. I said fine, seeing as how I didn't have my spring bar tool with me. When I got the watch back, they had "cleaned it up" meaning they polished it on a wheel. I was livid, because the lugs now have the tell tale "cushion" look of an overpolished watch, the case no longer has crisp edges. Most folks don't care they just want the scratches gone, but as a collector I was beside myself. I'm over it now, but it was quite the learning experience.
Yep. I took my wife's DJ in the other day to our AD to send to Rolex for service. Turns out my AD has a certified tech on hand and they said they could do it there. I said, how heavy does he normally polish? She said, what do you mean. I explained, she chuckled and said she had never heard anyone be worried about the polish. I grabbed the watch back and left. Not only won't I let them service our watches, but I won't buy them there anymore either. I prefer my AD's to at least be understanding of what collectors want and need. Ridiculous that she thought it was ridiculous.
I do the same as you to my watches. Believe it or not I finish with a q tip dipped in a high quality car wax and gently apply then polish with a clean microfiber. Leaves the case protected with a light wax protection that prevents oxidization. Makes the case look and feel like new.
Just turned my 5 year old Omega Aqua Terra back to near minty condition, very happy . The green scotch pad cut into a very small piece worked its magic very quickly on the brushed steel, just have to be careful not to rub the polish bits of the watch👍🏻
Wow looks a ton better! Also that second hand movement is a work of art. I've seen a ton of Rolex images and even a few videos but never really focused on just how smooth that movement is. Beautiful watch!
Multimedia Delivery Absolutely! There will always be those people that almost faint seeing someone almost "sand" a $3-5k watch but it looks worlds better. And heck, if it went to the Rolex plant they would just end up doing something extremely similar just inside a machine. Looks awesome :), and thanks for posting it!
+Oozywolf I agree! It's no where near as agressive as sanding! Rolex's steel is tough stuff. A simple Scotch Brite every few months isn't going to damage anything much! Besides, I think it looks better too!
Multimedia Delivery Yeah absolutely. You don't pay that much and have a brand that has such a great reputation to get a watch that can't deal with some light buffing with a Scotch pad lol. Rolex watches are extremely solid. You can see that just from how the band moves in the video lol
it looks like you used some kind of compound or cleaner along with your cape cod polishing cloth. I say that because you wear a glove. Does the cloth already have some cleaner or polishing compound ?
I don't know anything about jewelry but was a machinist and did a LOT of polishing in 40 years. Green seems a bit aggressive to me, but might be necessary for deep scratches. Have you tried the grey SotchBrite?
OK, great video. I couldn't believe they said they had to send it out (Akron, Ohio area) don't know where and it could be $150? I understand those watches are very pricey and wouldn't want to screw one up, but polishing is not that big of a deal, just don't use a file!
On my beater stainless steal 200m diver, I use toothpaste and a very soft old toothbrush. Then rinse very well under running water while still going over with the toothbrush, to remove all toothpaste residue. Doesn't do anything for scratches, but cleans up beautifully.
I use a Dremel tool with wool pads and a polishing paste for the shiny parts. 1000+ sandpaper and wet polishing for the brushed parts. It good for the bigger scuffs. Obviously you have to be careful when you work with machines on small parts.
Great job! I just ordered a Cape Cod cloth but I usually just do a quick rinse with Dawn and a toothbrush on my 09 Sub and it looks awesome for another month 🤙🏽
Thank you for the pragmatic approach and nice explanation. On the bracelet links do I move scotch brite on a longitudinal (as on the clasp) direction or 90 degress direction, horizontal one ? Thank you once again.
Love the video... Just took our Rolex's in for service and minor repairs. The man we took them to is based out of St Pete FL. He is an expert watch repair business and writes books and lectures on Rolex (and other brands). I was surprised when we picked up our watches that he did not polish them. He told us that the only thing he recommended was using good old fashioned tooth paste and a soft cloth. With that said, I did give it a try but it doesn't do much for the scratches on my outer clasp. Both our bands are two tone oyster bands. I'm going to give your method a try just on the stainless (not the gold) areas and on the outer clasp and see how it comes out. Thanks
Well, he may not polish them, but do you know who does at every single service? Rolex. I think I'll go ahead and go with Rolex versus the guy who claims he is trained by ROLEX. It is true that it's possible to over polish a watch and ruin the crisp edges, but that isn't what was done here in this video.
Debbie Shull i live in st.pete and i take mine to Arnold's in largo . If he didnt polish the watch then i wouldnt consider that being fully serviced . Aside from replacing the gaskets, main spring , cleaning and lubing everthing as its put back together he should have fully buffed the watch out front and back . The point is to keep the watch in as close to perfect condition as possible and ive never heard of a service that didnt include buffing , but thats just me . You may want to check them out next time its due . They're super friendly , get the watch back to you when they say they will and only charge 350 as opposed to 375- 400 like most places here in pinellas county . My datejust looks like new thanks to them ! Just my 2 cents.. sorry you didnt get what you expected , i would be dissapointed as well .
I'm going to have a go at this tonight with my 2008 explorer II. I already bought the cape cod system you recommended for the sides and it worked brilliantly, now I need to do the bracelet next using sand paper. What grade is best to use? I have a 130 very fine grade, was going to give that a try. With thanks from London!
+Tom Ross worked beautifully. Cape cod for the lugs, shiny sides of the bracelet and the shiny circular rim on the underside of the watch. Just took my time and pretty much eliminated all the scratches in about 15 minutes. Then I used a green scouring pad (you do the dishes with) to remove the scratches from the top of the bracelet. Again, this worked brilliantly as its equivalent to a fine grade sand paper, perhaps even softer. Sold the watch to first buyer, he couldn't believe how good the condition was, couldn't get past it almost for an 8 year old watch haha! Definitely will using this again on my next Rolex.
I bought my Submariner back around 1976. It took a quite a beating as I never babied it. Never failed me over the years and at the beginning I had to take in the watch for service every five years. The Rolex service really did make it look brand new. I don't remember when they told me to just send it in when the time starts to be off from what I'm use to seeing. Over the years it average about +2 to 3 seconds a day. Your watch looks good after your cleaning and polishing. The only thing I did was to use toothpaste to buff out the acrylic crystal.
I have been wearing mine since 1962 but only allow Rolex to clean the insides. The outside-with exception of acrylic crystal-in original. I bought it new in Mexico City for $176 from Rolex directly and it is now valued at $12,000.
My advice is dont do it . I have a vintage ghost bezel in the collection and it's never been cleaned up . As for my ceramic version...well lets say I use to do the same in this video, but after doing all things i do in life I gave up .
Cheap and cheerful toothbrush won’t damage it. The idiots who claim water/soap / brush damages inert steel (its an alloy 904) need to get a grip. Steels, natural rubbers, synthetic polymer seals are all robust. One are to check at the clean is that the bracelet screws are still tight.
Would this work on a Cartier watch, stupid question but would love response. I ask also because the face of watch is not green and not sure if should use the second step.
I have two deeper gauges on my Rolex Datejust which I purchased pre-owned (2017 model) they really aren't noticeable unless you really inspect it under direct light. But will they come out if I send it to Rolex? or a certified Rolex watchmaker? Thanks
It can handle 1000ft and even some more without problems. Saturation divers used the 660ft version back in the day. When other companies say 50m (Royal Oak 15400st) or 100m like AP or Patek they're really only good for swimming. Even Blancpain's Fifty Fathoms. When Rolex says 300m it really is 300m. There is no open case back, everything is closed and it even has a trip lock crown.
I have the stainless sub as well go to a paint store even ace hardware and get u a (light grey) ultra fine scotch bright sanding pad......it will be in sanding isle by paint.......ace carries the polish cloths as well......that exact tin of capeccod clotchs.......just be gentle and stay in one direction UNIFORM AS STRAIGHT AS POSSIBLE when sanding and use gloves with the cloths they are toxic!!!this guy is awesome but an wild man not to use gloves!
There is hand polishing and heavy duty machine polishing and refinishing. You can hand polish it all you want but if you use big buffing machines to remove ALL the big scratches then you are removing a lot of material and changing the shape of the case. Polishing is fine. Refinishing is bad.
That was extremely helpful. Something that anyone can do at, at least a base level for self maintenance. I'm definitely going to try the tips I learned here for my own watches!
i have been cleaning my time pieces with dawn for years like over 20 years and not one of over 50 of my watches have ever had leaks, omegas,rolex,jl,b&r, even the old bumper wind pieces. dawn is fine
Nicely done. I am with you. I'd rather buff out/brush out the scratches and scuffs than to leave the wear and tear in place. Though there are those that consider it a sin. I do think that it can be a shame to have a watch polished poorly - but doing what you are doing by hand, isn't going to hurt anything (in my opinion). Which you obviously feel the same way. I personally only polish by hand. I think it's relatively easy to avoid over-polishing when you do everything by hand.
Haha, why am I watching this? I don't own a Rolex Submariner and probably won't ever be able to afford one. But I do have an old Victorinox Swiss Army infantry with a mirror finish, would I be able to knock out the scratches I've accumulated over the years with these sweet Cape Cod wipes?
I used to think the same way. A months ago I bought a brand new 2 tone Sub ($17,000) also have a Navitimer and a Tag Caliber 16, planning to buy a Yatch Master II this summer too. So never say never !
Looks good and a great job. The most important part is cleaning the bracelet regularly as shown to remove foreign debris and gunk that will accelerate wear and cause bracelet stretch over time. As for the abrasive work and polishing cloths - I’d imagine any dealer getting their hands on a used piece gives the watch a brush up to make it look new and shiny. The super anal will complain about removing metal and they may have a point if you repeat this process weekly and sell on after ten years worth. But it’s your watch and you can do as you please. The results look good to me. Mine will just get the makeover when it goes back for a service.
Very useful video, thumb up. Do you recommed any polishing paste for mineral or Hardlex crystal? I guess no one will be effective with sapphire crystal which, by the way, I haven't had scratched up to this moment not even during a fall on motorcycle but if that happens I guess is almost impossible to fix homemade, only replace the crystal.
can someone tell me if there's anything I can do to restore the paint on the rotating dial ? Some of the paint has chipped off 😞 I know you can take it to the service centre but how much would it cost just to restore the paint along the rotating dial
+Multimedia Delivery yeah that's the word i was looking for. Mine has actually chipped and i thought the paint came off at first 😞 is this considered normal since I'm using it everyday ?
Just as a warning to folks this method can make the brushed finish super uneven and not straight lines lines. My advice is use the edge of a book to use as a guide to keep it straight. Also tape off the polished areas. If ya end up jacking up your finish just bring it to a authorised dealer and most have a actual wheel polisher and can fix it for ya
Nice!! I built up the balls to home polish my Breitling Superocean 2 (I can afford to send it in I just don't wanna wait cause it's my daily) I put a mean scratch in the case side when locking my door (damn house stucco) it came out looking literally brand new...I was surprised how easy it came out...only 3-4 medium swipes on the polisher and it was perfect :) idk if I'd be willing to do a brushed finish though!
+Multimedia Delivery just an FYI from a fellow watch lover, it's very easy to brush finish Rolex links since they're rectangular and not angled like Breitling links. You polish your center links and then tape them off to protect the polished surface. Then you cut a piece of high grit sand paper (between 800-1200 grit depending on your finish) into a sliver a little thinner (barely) than the link, and kinda weave it under the previous link and that method keeps the paper in a perfect direction and takes all scuffs and nicks out and leaves me you that gorgeous platinum looking brushed look...it only takes a few swipes and only blackens the paper, it doesn't remove material like a bench brush does... Up to you but I love Polishing my links with rouge then doing that method... I bought an Invicta Pro Diver sub homage, fucked it up for a few days, then practiced till I was comfortable to try it on the sub
Put a tiny bit of toothpaste on a wet towel and use to polish scratched surface on the glass.. repeat if necessary until scratch no longer visible ..worked perfectly on my Sub
Great video! I Love to see someone who is not afraid to use and baby their watch! Submariner is expensive, but it is a tool watch, and is meant to be worn and used. dont listen to the hate here, and the people that say it looks fake,. Im very impressed with how the watch turned out when you were done. nice job! It's a 116610 sub C right? what year?
+PowerChucker thanks for watching! I love my Rolex. You got it... It's a 116610 ceramic bezel. I love this watch bezel. I bought it in 2014 from John Bull. Haven't had any issues with it at all!
I only have a few cheap Seiko and Invicta automatics. I do change the crystals to sapphires and enjoy regulating them by myself. I just want to second the Scotchbrite method here. I think it is very effective and does bring the brushed area to very close to original surface. You do want to make sure it is done in straight strokes, otherwise it will show! I felt this is like "deburring" instead of actual "sharpening". The amount of stainless steel it removes from the should be really very small. I'll be totally comfortable doing this to stainless bracelets if i do acquire more luxury watches.
![Super Scratched Rolex Yacht-Master 40 116622 | Polish Refinish Restoration [ASMR] | Watchtrader & Co](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/AqqdR63Utxo/mqdefault.jpg)
![Super Scratched Rolex Yacht-Master 40 116622 | Polish Refinish Restoration [ASMR] | Watchtrader & Co](/img/tr.png)
“It’s my watch, I can do whatever I please with it”. 💪
It’s true lol
I just did this to my hulk submariner. I am so impressed how fast and easy this is. The finish is the same. I've been into watches a long time. From now on. Watches only go in for movement service. There is no need to have them take off the amount of metal and chew up the lugs shape with professional polishing. This is the way! Thank you!!!
+John L glad it worked for you. Easy Rolex polish.
Just did this to my Sub on the clasp with the Scotch cloth. There were so many scuffs on the clasp that were bothering and it took them all out! Literally worked like magic!
It’s super effective! Glad it worked on ur submariner.
Thanks so much for making this video! I was about to send my Submariner off to get scratches buffed out from the previous owner. It's been bugging me so much. Before I sent it off, I decided to do some research and immediately found this video.
This was so easy and worked like a charm. Took a little bit of time, but my bracelet looks almost brand new.
Thanks again for sharing this! You've saved me a lot of money now and in the future. I won't be so afraid of scuffing up my bracelet now knowing that I can fix it myself.
Awesome! Glad it worked for you! You don’t need to baby your Rolex!
Don't listen to anyone crying "don't do that!" My AD told me to only move my arm "forward and backwards whilst wearing a rolex, as side-to-side can damage the movement." I shit you not, he even said "whilst" for just that little extra sprinkle of pretentiousness. It's a workhorse tool watch, it's meant to be put through its paces. It's like buying a Ferrari just have it be a garage queen; might as well just visit the dealer/dealership every day if you want to see it pristine and perfect. Glad to see a fellow Sub owner wearing their watch like it's meant to be worn. Cheers from the UK.
They took you for a right dipstick fella lol
Pl
100% agree
Submariner is the workhorse of Rolex.
They are built for utility...
I think I'll do this to mine...
Excellent video
Thanks - love the submariner.
Awesome video! Thanks for doing this! I send my rolexes to get fine lines and scratches removed every so often and I’m always charged an arm and a leg. This video saved me a lot of money.
Awesome and glad it worked for your Rolex.
I have found that the nail polishing sponges women use work really well, the ones with four different colour sides blue yellow pink and purple, they are also good for polishing out scratches from plexiglass watch crystals on vintage watches.
What a refreshing change! A guy who treats his Rolex with respect but isn’t precious about it. I’ll not forget the TV auction programme when a guy was told that his rather beat up old Rolex was worth about four times what it would have been worth if he’d had Rolex service it and renew the worn cosmetic parts - bezel, glass etc!
Thanks! Not planning on selling it any time soon!
Wonder why all the hate!??! Loved the video and technique; and as you say; it's your watch! Your choice! I'd do the same. Heck, we appreciate good things and we should look after our pride and joy !
I tried using metal polish , followed by a auto detailing polish to finish off with ( using microfibre and polishing cloths) Made the watches look like new!!
+Akshay Shah thanks a lot! i couldn't agree with you more. i love the freshly polished look.
+Multimedia Delivery Too bad it's hard to get Cape Cod stuff this part of the world :P
+Multimedia Delivery BTW, do you do watch reviews as well? Am contemplating whether a Sub is better, or a Seamaster PO?
+Akshay Shah Sub is better, its a cut above.
:) Any idea if the choice is between a Speedy Moonwatch, Seamaster 300 or Planet Ocean?
Glad to see someone wearing their Rolex and actually enjoying it! I've done a few VERY light polishes in my day, but man you have some guts! Definitely painful to watch, but your watch so I need to mind my own business lol! Enjoy that beautiful ND Sub!
+mark mikhail thanks for checking out out! I wear I every day and honestly I've beat it up pretty well. But hey, you don't buy a corvette to keep it in the garage or buy a boat to keep it docked.
Great video and content. I use to pay $60 for a jeweler to touch up my 2 tone blue sub and it looks brand new when done. Ive been collecting for 15 plus years now, ifrom 2000 on, ive made avg 70% in gains. My 2 tone blue sub was bought preowned in 2000 for $4,300...i sold it for $8,200 in 2008...then bought a Daytona for $7,400...now its worth $14,500 all day...Ive made 100,000 since 2000 on Rolex's ... thats profit...in 2 years i bought a Pepsi in ss, a Hulk, Batman in SS, a 40 DD 18kt yello black face diam markers...a 40 white gold silver face...Yachtmaster 2 blue face 18kt...blue sea dweller and a ss sky ith grey face...8 bad ass rollies for under 100k and they were all paid for by buying smart over 15 years plus...im not a dealer...its not a job...I never need another w
atch but ill keep this hobbie going till it dont work.
ok
all i have to do is buy now , and wait 15 years then ?
You would have done much better if you bought into Bitcoin.
Happy I found this video. I replicated your process and my Submariner looks nearly brand new. Thank you!
Glad it worked for u! :)
my favorite submariner. love this simple look and is versatile with every outfit compared to the green one or gold/blue
agreed. the ceramic bezel really makes the submariner pop.
Ditto! I like the blue dial two-tone as well. Selling my diamond datejust to get one. I'd have both honestly.
Thank you sir! I learned alot! Never thought a scotch brite can do wonders on the bracelet! Thank you!
Thanks!
I have been doing this to my two liner Sub 5 times a year for the past 10 years and its fine no issues.
i love the way you treat your Rolex .i learned from your video .Thanks.
+PR patel thanks for checking it out. Love my Rolex
I do the stainless and the 2tone at home. I use similar technique except on the 2tone i section off the bracelet with desk tape. Instead of the scotch brite pad i was using 1500 wet sand paper lightly. I’m sure all the Rolex nuts would have a heart attack but it’s done me good.😂
Nice job man. Anyone who thinks they need to be brave to do this to their Rolex may have bought a watch that was a bit too expensive for them. I know the debate rages on and on in the forums, but it's just a watch and was meant to be worn...and polished as you've shown. Thanks for the video.
Exactly. The Rolex Sub, and watches like it, are called "tool watches" for a reason - they are designed to be used.
I think this looks fine. You're wise to stay away from the lugs and the crisp edges, that's what really is an eyesore when polished. I ordered a couple of end links for my old Datejust at an AD while on vacation, and they offered to put them on. I said fine, seeing as how I didn't have my spring bar tool with me. When I got the watch back, they had "cleaned it up" meaning they polished it on a wheel. I was livid, because the lugs now have the tell tale "cushion" look of an overpolished watch, the case no longer has crisp edges. Most folks don't care they just want the scratches gone, but as a collector I was beside myself. I'm over it now, but it was quite the learning experience.
Yep. I took my wife's DJ in the other day to our AD to send to Rolex for service. Turns out my AD has a certified tech on hand and they said they could do it there. I said, how heavy does he normally polish? She said, what do you mean. I explained, she chuckled and said she had never heard anyone be worried about the polish. I grabbed the watch back and left. Not only won't I let them service our watches, but I won't buy them there anymore either. I prefer my AD's to at least be understanding of what collectors want and need. Ridiculous that she thought it was ridiculous.
I do the same as you to my watches. Believe it or not I finish with a q tip dipped in a high quality car wax and gently apply then polish with a clean microfiber. Leaves the case protected with a light wax protection that prevents oxidization. Makes the case look and feel like new.
That’s a great suggestion. I’ll try it on the submariner next time. I’m due for another Polish.
Just turned my 5 year old Omega Aqua Terra back to near minty condition, very happy . The green scotch pad cut into a very small piece worked its magic very quickly on the brushed steel, just have to be careful not to rub the polish bits of the watch👍🏻
Nice. Works for more than just Rolex.
Wow looks a ton better! Also that second hand movement is a work of art. I've seen a ton of Rolex images and even a few videos but never really focused on just how smooth that movement is. Beautiful watch!
+Oozywolf I think it comes out pretty good with a minimal amount of cost or effort! Thanks for checking it out!
Multimedia Delivery Absolutely! There will always be those people that almost faint seeing someone almost "sand" a $3-5k watch but it looks worlds better. And heck, if it went to the Rolex plant they would just end up doing something extremely similar just inside a machine. Looks awesome :), and thanks for posting it!
+Oozywolf I agree! It's no where near as agressive as sanding! Rolex's steel is tough stuff. A simple Scotch Brite every few months isn't going to damage anything much! Besides, I think it looks better too!
Multimedia Delivery Yeah absolutely. You don't pay that much and have a brand that has such a great reputation to get a watch that can't deal with some light buffing with a Scotch pad lol. Rolex watches are extremely solid. You can see that just from how the band moves in the video lol
it looks like you used some kind of compound or cleaner along with your cape cod polishing cloth. I say that because you wear a glove. Does the cloth already have some cleaner or polishing compound ?
The cloth needs to be moist. They suggest using mineral spirits to dampen it if it dries out. Gloves keep the the spirit from messing up ur hands.
I don't know anything about jewelry but was a machinist and did a LOT of polishing in 40 years. Green seems a bit aggressive to me, but might be necessary for deep scratches. Have you tried the grey SotchBrite?
+wolfgang schmittenhammer I haven't tried the grey. I've been told that the green is a close match to rolex polishing grit for their stainless.
OK, great video. I couldn't believe they said they had to send it out (Akron, Ohio area) don't know where and it could be $150? I understand those watches are very pricey and wouldn't want to screw one up, but polishing is not that big of a deal, just don't use a file!
Yepssss .... been doin that with all my rolexes since 1970’s ..... try using also fine wood ash
I’ll give that a shot!
Superb video. Mine’s looking sweet after just 7 months of ownership, but when it gets scuffed up, I’ll revisit this fascinating vid for tips.
It really works great on the steel.
Hello! Should I wet the scotch brite first or it's okay to use it dry?
On my beater stainless steal 200m diver, I use toothpaste and a very soft old toothbrush. Then rinse very well under running water while still going over with the toothbrush, to remove all toothpaste residue. Doesn't do anything for scratches, but cleans up beautifully.
Hi, it’s possible you make de same polish for the audemars piguet, GMT 2 or not ? Because there are different polish. Thank you
What would you advise for white gold ( rolex white gold ) can i do it in the same way?
I use a Dremel tool with wool pads and a polishing paste for the shiny parts. 1000+ sandpaper and wet polishing for the brushed parts. It good for the bigger scuffs. Obviously you have to be careful when you work with machines on small parts.
Thank you very much. I did the same on my rolex and now it looks new again.
Thanks
Nice! Happy it worked for you. Works great on brushes Rolexes
You did a great job, like the down to Earth approach. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks!
Great job! I just ordered a Cape Cod cloth but I usually just do a quick rinse with Dawn and a toothbrush on my 09 Sub and it looks awesome for another month 🤙🏽
Instead of pouring Dawn onto the watch, I simply put Dawn on the toothbrush like I would toothpaste.
Thank you for the pragmatic approach and nice explanation. On the bracelet links do I move scotch brite on a longitudinal (as on the clasp) direction or 90 degress direction, horizontal one ? Thank you once again.
i'd go longitudinally as on the clasp...thats the the way the original brushing went.
May I suggest you to open the case back and make the inside shiny as well?
+fastcougar3200 nah... Just the bracelet works for me :)
fastcougar3200 não
Works on that crystal too. hehe
I just did this to my watch. The result is beautiful! Thanks for the guidance!
Love the video... Just took our Rolex's in for service and minor repairs. The man we took them to is based out of St Pete FL. He is an expert watch repair business and writes books and lectures on Rolex (and other brands). I was surprised when we picked up our watches that he did not polish them. He told us that the only thing he recommended was using good old fashioned tooth paste and a soft cloth. With that said, I did give it a try but it doesn't do much for the scratches on my outer clasp. Both our bands are two tone oyster bands. I'm going to give your method a try just on the stainless (not the gold) areas and on the outer clasp and see how it comes out. Thanks
Well, he may not polish them, but do you know who does at every single service? Rolex. I think I'll go ahead and go with Rolex versus the guy who claims he is trained by ROLEX. It is true that it's possible to over polish a watch and ruin the crisp edges, but that isn't what was done here in this video.
plain way to clean it
Debbie Shull i live in st.pete and i take mine to Arnold's in largo . If he didnt polish the watch then i wouldnt consider that being fully serviced . Aside from replacing the gaskets, main spring , cleaning and lubing everthing as its put back together he should have fully buffed the watch out front and back . The point is to keep the watch in as close to perfect condition as possible and ive never heard of a service that didnt include buffing , but thats just me . You may want to check them out next time its due . They're super friendly , get the watch back to you when they say they will and only charge 350 as opposed to 375- 400 like most places here in pinellas county . My datejust looks like new thanks to them ! Just my 2 cents.. sorry you didnt get what you expected , i would be dissapointed as well .
Just polished my WCT 1000 . I used dawn , toothbrush, and mothers polish. Looks great.
+Eric Langlois never thought to use mothers polish on a rolex. I'll try next time.
Surprised on how good it came out! thanks for the video!
Thanks for watching! It works perfect on brushed Rolex bands…
I'm going to have a go at this tonight with my 2008 explorer II. I already bought the cape cod system you recommended for the sides and it worked brilliantly, now I need to do the bracelet next using sand paper. What grade is best to use? I have a 130 very fine grade, was going to give that a try. With thanks from London!
how did you get on? I'm considering having a go on my 216570
+Tom Ross worked beautifully. Cape cod for the lugs, shiny sides of the bracelet and the shiny circular rim on the underside of the watch. Just took my time and pretty much eliminated all the scratches in about 15 minutes. Then I used a green scouring pad (you do the dishes with) to remove the scratches from the top of the bracelet. Again, this worked brilliantly as its equivalent to a fine grade sand paper, perhaps even softer. Sold the watch to first buyer, he couldn't believe how good the condition was, couldn't get past it almost for an 8 year old watch haha! Definitely will using this again on my next Rolex.
Do you have any guidance on taking the sharp edges off ? Not concerned about taking value off, but prefer softer edges on case
I’ve never tried that for a Rolex.. let me know if you give it a shot.
I bought my Submariner back around 1976. It took a quite a beating as I never babied it. Never failed me over the years and at the beginning I had to take in the watch for service every five years. The Rolex service really did make it look brand new. I don't remember when they told me to just send it in when the time starts to be off from what I'm use to seeing. Over the years it average about +2 to 3 seconds a day. Your watch looks good after your cleaning and polishing. The only thing I did was to use toothpaste to buff out the acrylic crystal.
i like the toothpaste idea. I have some acrylic safety googles. Do you think the toothpaste might be able to clear up the scratches?
Multimedia Delivery Try polywatch if you want to polish the crystal
I have been wearing mine since 1962 but only allow Rolex to clean the insides. The outside-with exception of acrylic crystal-in original. I bought it new in Mexico City for $176 from Rolex directly and it is now valued at $12,000.
Rolex and Tudor are meant to be worn everyday. I love the scratches on mine :)
i know a luxury web as www.1kmluxuryb.com which has nice watch
Good evening, I’ would like to ask you something, can I use the cape cod on both surfaces? And if I can’t why? Thank you!
Cape cod will only work on shiny surfaces. Scotch will only work on brushed surfaces.
Multimedia Delivery ok, thank you a lot!
Ur welcome!
Any advice on polishing an older Rolex submariner enamel bezel?
My advice is dont do it . I have a vintage ghost bezel in the collection and it's never been cleaned up . As for my ceramic version...well lets say I use to do the same in this video, but after doing all things i do in life I gave up .
Will this work on a vintage datejust? If I just want to rinse a datejust with just water is that harmful? Also doesnt a toothbrush scratch the watch?
Cheap and cheerful toothbrush won’t damage it.
The idiots who claim water/soap / brush damages inert steel (its an alloy 904) need to get a grip.
Steels, natural rubbers, synthetic polymer seals are all robust.
One are to check at the clean is that the bracelet screws are still tight.
Nice video.
How old was your watch when you removed scratches? Thanks.
I’ve done it quite a few times. The watch was purchased in 2013...
Would this work on a Cartier watch, stupid question but would love response. I ask also because the face of watch is not green and not sure if should use the second step.
I suppose it depends on the grain and finish of the piece! Good luck
I have two deeper gauges on my Rolex Datejust which I purchased pre-owned (2017 model) they really aren't noticeable unless you really inspect it under direct light. But will they come out if I send it to Rolex? or a certified Rolex watchmaker? Thanks
You’ll probably bang it up as you wear it. I wouldn’t stress out about it until you wear it a bit and see new scratches appear.
A "cape cod cloth" is a cloth impregnated with metal polish. If you have any metal polish just put some on a rag and you can do the same thing.
Just did it, looks gorgeous
Glad it worked out! Works great on brushed steel rolex models.
this thing is made to go 1000ft down the ocean!!! you can use anything to wash it!!!
+Leandro Limeres agreed!
Leandro Limeres but it isn’t...
Nope not at all.
It can handle 1000ft and even some more without problems. Saturation divers used the 660ft version back in the day. When other companies say 50m (Royal Oak 15400st) or 100m like AP or Patek they're really only good for swimming. Even Blancpain's Fifty Fathoms. When Rolex says 300m it really is 300m. There is no open case back, everything is closed and it even has a trip lock crown.
What kind of cloth was that you used to clean the watch
This was a cape cod cloth - worked well for the polished parts of the submariner.
Thanks bro for the information about on how to clean up your Rolex watch
Welcome!
If you did this once a week would it take the metal off the watch as much as a high polish from the Rolex service center?
Good question - I can’t imagine that it’s much.
Can I do that on titanium bracelts?
Are you using the Heavy duty Scotch Brite? after using a Cape cod polishing cloth. Do you use any polish? Thanks
+Young Doan scotch brite green worked for me. The different colors are different grits
I have the stainless sub as well go to a paint store even ace hardware and get u a (light grey) ultra fine scotch bright sanding pad......it will be in sanding isle by paint.......ace carries the polish cloths as well......that exact tin of capeccod clotchs.......just be gentle and stay in one direction UNIFORM AS STRAIGHT AS POSSIBLE when sanding and use gloves with the cloths they are toxic!!!this guy is awesome but an wild man not to use gloves!
Polish is on the cloth in the tin comes like that ready to go
Ace hardwares carry the cap cod cloths
Excellent video glad to see your watch has character! Awesome!! It’s really great to see that you don’t baby your diver and actually use it.
cape cod cloth is the same as green scotch pad?
Nope cape cod is for mirrored surfaces.
Cape cloth if for shinny finishes only?
That’s right - not for brushed surfaces.
@Multimedia Delivery - doesn't polishing depreciate the value? Or is that if you polish the case sides
Probably does diminish collector value. That said, I wear my watch for me, not a future collector.
There is hand polishing and heavy duty machine polishing and refinishing. You can hand polish it all you want but if you use big buffing machines to remove ALL the big scratches then you are removing a lot of material and changing the shape of the case. Polishing is fine. Refinishing is bad.
Can you do this method with the stainless steel and gold submariner ?
the gold is mirror finish and quite a bit softer.
im thinking of buying a used watch with minimal marking on strap you have just made up my mind thank you good vid
Ur welcome!
Worked great on my Explorer. Thanks.
Awesome! It’s a great way to breathe life into a brushed rolex.
Nice work and great, informational video!
Much appreciated! I'm probably going to send it in for service soon, so it'll get a pro rolex polish soon.
Do you know How to remove scratches on fluted bezel on datejust?
Seems more challenging because of the flutes. Let me know if you find out.
That was extremely helpful. Something that anyone can do at, at least a base level for self maintenance. I'm definitely going to try the tips I learned here for my own watches!
Glad you liked it! Rolexes are tough to mess up!
i have been cleaning my time pieces with dawn for years like over 20 years and not one of over 50 of my watches have ever had leaks, omegas,rolex,jl,b&r, even the old bumper wind pieces.
dawn is fine
Scotch Brite - who woulda thought this would work so well. Great Job!
I think it does a good enough job. I wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t try it.
Well done. Far superior job to the hacks who just go at it with power tools.
Nicely done. I am with you. I'd rather buff out/brush out the scratches and scuffs than to leave the wear and tear in place. Though there are those that consider it a sin. I do think that it can be a shame to have a watch polished poorly - but doing what you are doing by hand, isn't going to hurt anything (in my opinion). Which you obviously feel the same way. I personally only polish by hand. I think it's relatively easy to avoid over-polishing when you do everything by hand.
I can’t imagine the pressure by hand would remove much metal on the rolex. Cheers!
Where did you get the cape cod stuff?
I got it online.
Haha, why am I watching this? I don't own a Rolex Submariner and probably won't ever be able to afford one.
But I do have an old Victorinox Swiss Army infantry with a mirror finish, would I be able to knock out the scratches I've accumulated over the years with these sweet Cape Cod wipes?
another option is Brasso wadding metal polish, i heard that works better
watch out with the brasso its very strong.
TheCaptain008 that Victorinox is a cool watch. I like the textile braided band that they offer. 👍🏾
I used to think the same way. A months ago I bought a brand new 2 tone Sub ($17,000) also have a Navitimer and a Tag Caliber 16, planning to buy a Yatch Master II this summer too. So never say never !
TheCaptain008 no, they only work on a Rolex
Enjoyed the video thanks, And by doing it "by hand" I think you got good results without risking ruining the watch
thanks for watching. its an easy fix for brushed steel rolex submariners.
Great video, I do the same but use fine 320 finishing sandpaper on my tag.
Good stuff!
Looks good and a great job. The most important part is cleaning the bracelet regularly as shown to remove foreign debris and gunk that will accelerate wear and cause bracelet stretch over time. As for the abrasive work and polishing cloths - I’d imagine any dealer getting their hands on a used piece gives the watch a brush up to make it look new and shiny. The super anal will complain about removing metal and they may have a point if you repeat this process weekly and sell on after ten years worth. But it’s your watch and you can do as you please. The results look good to me. Mine will just get the makeover when it goes back for a service.
Great feedback. I totally agree!
The polishing work was helpful and good. I also tried it and it worked right away
Rolex steel is strong. It works well.
Very useful video, thumb up. Do you recommed any polishing paste for mineral or Hardlex crystal? I guess no one will be effective with sapphire crystal which, by the way, I haven't had scratched up to this moment not even during a fall on motorcycle but if that happens I guess is almost impossible to fix homemade, only replace the crystal.
Never had as much as a scratch on the crystal. the things gonna shatter before it scratches.
Polywatch
Love the video and the way you are not a watch snob!
How shall i do when i need make a rough polishing on The case?
Jag har redan löst det själv 😋
Hi. How many times did you already do this to your watch? Greetings deni
I’ve done it quite a few times already. Maybe 5?
can someone tell me if there's anything I can do to restore the paint on the rotating dial ? Some of the paint has chipped off 😞 I know you can take it to the service centre but how much would it cost just to restore the paint along the rotating dial
+Jay Deva my watch has the ceramic bezel rolex submariner. It doesn't really fade but it does run the risk of cracking / chipping.
+Multimedia Delivery yeah that's the word i was looking for. Mine has actually chipped and i thought the paint came off at first 😞 is this considered normal since I'm using it everyday ?
+Jay Deva you can order a new bezel.
Just as a warning to folks this method can make the brushed finish super uneven and not straight lines lines. My advice is use the edge of a book to use as a guide to keep it straight. Also tape off the polished areas. If ya end up jacking up your finish just bring it to a authorised dealer and most have a actual wheel polisher and can fix it for ya
Nice!! I built up the balls to home polish my Breitling Superocean 2 (I can afford to send it in I just don't wanna wait cause it's my daily) I put a mean scratch in the case side when locking my door (damn house stucco) it came out looking literally brand new...I was surprised how easy it came out...only 3-4 medium swipes on the polisher and it was perfect :) idk if I'd be willing to do a brushed finish though!
+Christopher Mendez I think the brushed finish is easier IMHO. Glad ur polish came out great!
+Multimedia Delivery yea, but it's one of those things that's so easy that it's easy to fuck up lol
try it on a beater watch first to build up ur confidence before trying it.
I have an invicta and today I actually slid the watch glass against titanium sizers now I have 2 major scratches and 3 miner scratches in the glass
Thanks for the video. Took away most of the surface scratches on my clasp.
Glad it worked!
How long did you wear the watch before polishing it?
+Torsten Dimpflmeier bout a year until the scratches started to bother me
Did you use the scotch brite on the polished parts of your Rolex too??
No. Cape cod cloth works nicely on the polished Rolex surfaces.
how many times we can do it?every week?every time we see scratch on the bracelete?
Do you not use the Cape Cod on the brushed stainless band?
you dont want to use the cape cod on the bracelet or you will take off the brushed steel appearance.
+Multimedia Delivery just an FYI from a fellow watch lover, it's very easy to brush finish Rolex links since they're rectangular and not angled like Breitling links. You polish your center links and then tape them off to protect the polished surface. Then you cut a piece of high grit sand paper (between 800-1200 grit depending on your finish) into a sliver a little thinner (barely) than the link, and kinda weave it under the previous link and that method keeps the paper in a perfect direction and takes all scuffs and nicks out and leaves me you that gorgeous platinum looking brushed look...it only takes a few swipes and only blackens the paper, it doesn't remove material like a bench brush does... Up to you but I love Polishing my links with rouge then doing that method... I bought an Invicta Pro Diver sub homage, fucked it up for a few days, then practiced till I was comfortable to try it on the sub
The tips were a real help with my Tag Heur Chronograph F1, thanks!
Is it still fine? I have the exact same watch and a few small scratches I’d like to remove
Great video, gave me the courage to do the same. Came out great, thanks.
How do you remove minor scratches off glass? Thanks
Can't help on that one...its sapphire on the submariner so I don't know if there's much you can do.
A sapphire crytal shouldn't mark up. Vintage pieces have acrylic crystals. In which case polywatch is briliant.
Put a tiny bit of toothpaste on a wet towel and use to polish scratched surface on the glass.. repeat if necessary until scratch no longer visible ..worked perfectly on my Sub
@@ArenaOfTheAncients only pure white plain toothpaste....
what if i have a color gold watch? does it take the color away?
Gold is way softer than steel so I’d be careful.
Great video! I Love to see someone who is not afraid to use and baby their watch! Submariner is expensive, but it is a tool watch, and is meant to be worn and used. dont listen to the hate here, and the people that say it looks fake,. Im very impressed with how the watch turned out when you were done. nice job! It's a 116610 sub C right? what year?
+PowerChucker thanks for watching! I love my Rolex. You got it... It's a 116610 ceramic bezel. I love this watch bezel. I bought it in 2014 from John Bull. Haven't had any issues with it at all!
Nicely done. Good advice and anyone can do it. Doesn't have to be a Rolex.
It’s a nice technique.
You did a great job there. Thanks
I only have a few cheap Seiko and Invicta automatics. I do change the crystals to sapphires and enjoy regulating them by myself. I just want to second the Scotchbrite method here. I think it is very effective and does bring the brushed area to very close to original surface. You do want to make sure it is done in straight strokes, otherwise it will show! I felt this is like "deburring" instead of actual "sharpening". The amount of stainless steel it removes from the should be really very small. I'll be totally comfortable doing this to stainless bracelets if i do acquire more luxury watches.
I couldn’t imagine that a scotch brite would work as well as it did.
Ok to do this to one of the new ceramics, but I don't think you should do it to a 5510-5513 vintage Sub.
+Kirby Park West agreed. No way I'd try it on a vintage Rolex.