Simple Steps to Polish a Gold-Plated Watch at Home

Gold-plated watch exude elegance and sophistication, making them highly attractive to watch enthusiasts. However, with time, these watches can become tarnished, scratched, or lose their luster. Polishing a gold-plated watch is essential to maintain its original beauty. Let’s explore the easy steps to polish a gold-plated watch at home with DWatch.

Why Do Gold-Plated Watch Tarnish?

Gold-plated watches often tarnish due to sweat, which contains salts that can cause the watch to corrode if worn for an extended period. Additionally, scratches over time can make the watch more prone to tarnishing. Rose gold-plated watches, a newer plating technology, can develop pinkish stains over time. This issue is still common and not completely preventable.

Tips for Using Gold-Plated Watches

1. Avoid Water Exposure: While some gold-plated watches are water-resistant, the gold plating can still be damaged by frequent water exposure. Avoid wearing the watch while bathing, swimming, or performing water-related tasks.
2. Avoid Contact with Cosmetics: Chemicals in perfumes, cleansers, and lotions can dull or damage the gold plating. Wear the watch after applying these products and wait 10 to 15 minutes to minimize contact.
3. Apply a Protective Coating: Have a jeweler apply a clear liquid coating over the watch’s surface to protect it from moisture and sweat. This thin coating acts like nail polish and helps preserve the gold plating.
4. Use a Damp Cotton Cloth: Regularly clean the watch with a damp cotton cloth to maintain its shine. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive brushes to prevent damaging the gold plating.

Cleaning Gold-Plated Watch at Home

1. Toothpaste: Clean light stains with a small amount of toothpaste. Apply the toothpaste to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth until clean, then rinse off the toothpaste.
2. Cotton Swabs: Use damp cotton swabs to clean hard-to-reach areas and small stains on the watch’s surface. Dip the swab in warm water, wring out excess water, and gently clean the watch’s crevices and edges.
3. Jewelry Cleaning Solution: Soak the watch in a jewelry cleaning solution for about 30 seconds, then use a soft brush to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
4. Ammonia Solution: Dilute ammonia with water in a 1:6 ratio and soak the stained area for 60 seconds. Clean with water and dry. Use this method only for stubborn stains and ensure the watch strap can withstand ammonia.
5. Drying and Sunlight: Use a jewelry cleaning cloth to remove dirt, then dry the watch with a hairdryer on a moderate heat setting or under sunlight. This will enhance the watch’s shine.

Polishing a Gold-Plated Watch

The cleaning methods above also serve as polishing techniques for gold-plated watches at home. However, for a professional finish and to avoid unnecessary scratches, it is advisable to take the watch to a service center. Professional jewelers use specialized machines to polish the watch, removing scratches and restoring its original shine.

Regularly clean your watch to prevent severe tarnishing and maintain its appearance. If your watch is too old or you cannot polish it yourself, take it to a professional for maintenance and restoration.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your gold-plated watch looking new, bright, and clean. Regular care will ensure your timepiece remains a beautiful accessory for years to come.