Watch Polishing & Case Refurbishment

We never polish a watch with the movement inside. The vibrations and heat can damage the mechanics. We fully strip the watch case and bracelet, removing the movement, crystal, pushers, and gaskets. The metal is then ultrasonically cleaned to remove dirt that could cause deep scratches during polishing.

Traditional polishing removes metal to level out a scratch. If a dent is too deep, polishing it out would deform the case. Instead, we use a micro-laser to melt matching steel (e.g., 904L) or 18k Gold into the dent, filling it up. This allows us to restore the surface without thinning the watch case.

To restore sharp edges (like the bevels on a Rolex Submariner lug), we use a flat lapping machine with diamond paste. This ensures the sides of the case remain perfectly flat and the edges remain razor-sharp, rather than rounded.

Different brands use different grain textures. We use specific abrasive wheels and belts to recreate the fine “hairline” brush of a bracelet or the deep sunburst finish of a bezel. We ensure the grain runs perfectly straight and parallel.

For the high-gloss areas (case sides, centre links), we use a professional variable speed polishing motor with graded mops and compounds. We work through coarse to ultra-fine compounds to achieve an excellent finish. This work is also done on the lapping machine pre final polish for flat sides and edges.

Polishing compounds are greasy and abrasive. Once finished, the case parts undergo a final, intensive ultrasonic cleaning cycle to remove every trace of residue before the watch is reassembled.

If you have a modern watch (Rolex Datejust, TAG Heuer, Breitling), professional polishing restores it to “like new” condition and generally makes it easier to sell. If you have a vintage collectible (e.g., a 1970s Submariner), we advise against polishing. Collectors prefer original scratches (patina) over a restored case. We will always consult you first.

Yes, traditional polishing removes a microscopic layer of metal to level the surface. However, because we use laser welding for deep dents, we remove significantly less metal than other polishers, preserving the lifespan of your case.

Yes. We are experts in refinishing 18k Yellow, Rose, and White Gold. We can also refinish Titanium (often found on Tudor Pelagos or Omega), though this requires specific techniques to prevent the metal from heating up and spotting.

Yes. A full refurbishment includes the watch head, the bezel, the case back, and the full bracelet and clasp. We take care to stiffen the bracelet links if possible, but polishing is primarily cosmetic.

Absolutely. This is our speciality. Many repairers polish the lugs until they are round. We use lapping techniques to re-cut the sharp, diagonal bevel (chamfer) on the edge of the lugs, returning the watch to its original aggressive profile.

Because a tiny amount of metal is removed, we recommend a full polish no more than once every 5 to 7 years (usually alongside a full service). Light polishing with a cloth is fine, but machine polishing should be done sparingly.