Rolex Watch Polishing

Rolex Watch Polishing

 
 

What is the difference between good watch polishing vs bad watch polishing?

Preservation of Original Shape and Detail:

  1. Good Polishing:

    • Preservation of Contours: Skilled watchmakers understand the importance of preserving the original contours and intricate details of the watch case and bracelet. They meticulously polish the surfaces without altering any features, such as the sharp edges of the lugs or angles on a fluted of bezel.

    • Precision in Material Removal: Good polishing involves precise material removal. Experienced artisans use the right amount of abrasives and polishing compounds to accurately eliminate scratches and imperfections while maintaining the integrity of the watch's surface.

    • Respect for Design Elements: Each watch model has unique design elements that contribute to its aesthetic appeal and functionality. A good polisher pays attention to these details, ensuring that any polishing enhances rather than detracts from the watch's original charm and character.

    2. Bad Polishing:

    • Loss of Definition: In contrast, poor polishing practices can lead to a loss of definition in the watch's features. Over-polishing or aggressive buffing may round off sharp edges or flatten distinctive angles, detracting from the watch's original design - which is what you bought it for.

    • Uneven Surfaces: Careless polishing can result in uneven surfaces across the watch case and bracelet. This can look like visible polishing marks or inconsistencies in the finish, diminishing the overall aesthetic appeal of the timepiece.

    • Alteration of Proportions: Improper techniques may inadvertently alter the proportions of the watch. For example, excessive polishing on one area of the case can create an uneven profile or affect the symmetry of the watch, detracting from its balanced design.

Reasons to Polish your Rolex Watch

  1. Preserve Aesthetic Appeal: Keep the visual appeal of your Rolex looking fresh, maintaining its luxury and timeless elegance.

  2. Enhance Longevity: Polishing removes dirt and grime that can affect the watch's components, contributing to its longevity and reliable performance.

  3. Maintain Resale Value: A well-maintained Rolex with a polished finish typically keeps a higher resale value in the market.

  4. Personal Pride: Enjoy wearing a Rolex that looks as good as the day you first bought it, boosting your confidence and pride in ownership.

  5. Professional Expertise: Trusted watchmakers at OBR Horology have specialised knowledge and tools to ensure meticulous polishing without compromising your watch's integrity.

  6. Customized Care: Each Rolex model requires specific care and attention during polishing, tailored to its material and finish for optimal results.

  7. Restore Original Brilliance: Professional polishing removes scratches, scuffs, and marks, restoring your Rolex to its original pristine condition.

Reasons Why Watch Polishing is Hotly Debated Topic in the Watch Community.

  1. Collectibility and Value:

    • Impact on Collectors: For collectors, the original condition of a watch can significantly affect its value and desirability. Polishing, if not done correctly, can diminish a watch's collectibility by altering its original finish or removing factory-applied details that contribute to its uniqueness. Each individual has different tastes, some prefer the watch in it’s raw worn condition others like it new.

  2. Historical Significance:

    • Preservation of History: Watches often bear marks and imperfections that tell stories of their past. Some argue that these marks should be preserved as part of the watch's historical significance, reflecting its journey and use over time. We often see this when pieces are sentimental and recommend leaving the watch as is.

  3. Technical Considerations:

    • Integrity of Materials: Polishing involves removing a thin layer of material from the watch's surface. Improper polishing techniques or excessive abrasion can compromise the integrity of the case, affecting its durability and potentially its water resistance. This has been a issue for decades but with the introduction of laser welders to add material this issue is doesn’t play as big a factor.

  4. Professional Expertise:

    • Skill and Experience: The outcome of polishing largely depends on the skill and experience of the watchmaker or service provider. Debate arises when there are varying standards of craftsmanship and quality assurance in the industry.

    • Equipment: Cheap inferior equipment will provide a sub par job. All the proper tools and equipment will lead to a better job in the long run.

  5. Aesthetic concerns:

    • Originality vs. Restoration: Some collectors and enthusiasts prioritize maintaining the original finish and patina of a watch, believing that polishing can detract from its historical character and authenticity. On the other hand, others argue that professional polishing restores the watch to its former glory, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

  6. Personal Preference:

    • Individual Tastes: Ultimately, the debate revolves around personal preference. Some owners prefer their watches to look pristine and showroom-ready, while others value the patina and wear marks that come with time and use. You decide.

To Summarise:

Polishing for decades has not received the respect it deserves. This led to watchmakers to provide a quick polishing and refinishing service that did not do the watches they serviced justice. This rightly so led to clients and collectors wanting their precious watches left untouched. With he the uptake of lapping and professional polishing services this sentiment is changing and the results speak for themselves. We always encourage customers to ask questions to get a better idea of what can be achieved.

If you have any questions or would like a quote to get your watch polished. reach out to us via email repairs@obrhorology.com.au or give us a call on 0423451991

For more reading on watch polish CLICK HERE

Oliver Broos Revitt