Cleaning g/p finishes.

[holly35]

What do members recommend for general cleaning of gold plated (or similar) finishes? I dont want to remove crystals etc,only to remove light dirt etc . However some cases are rather complex and difficuIt to clean, also dont want to damage or change the finish on the watch.I presume a sonic cleaner for the bracelet?

[Led-Time]

An ultrasonic cleaner will work great on all the metal watch parts they are quite inexpensive too, about four minutes in warm water with a little detergent and the difference is stunning.

[holly35]

Hi Klippie
Just purchased the ultra sonic cleaner.Do use the cleaner that comes with the unit or water with what type of detergent?.

[Led-Time]

Mine didn't have anything with it so I just use a dash of washing up liquid in some warm water it seems to work fine...

[holly35]

hi klippie
The cleaner is fine for bracelets but i need to clean the watch case,i dont want to remove the module etc . The case is a hamilton qtc which has polished sides and a brushed top.
any suggestions?

[Led-Time]

Any reason for not wanting to remove the module...?, doing so would allow the deep cleaning of the buttons etc leaving a sparkling clean case.

Alternatively try using a jewellers polishing cloth these work quite well too.

[holly35]

I am reluctant to remove the module because if anything is going to go wrong, it will go wrong with me! the watch is currently winging its way to Hanno at strikes and spares.I will list some pics and details when it returns.
I purchased the sonic cleaner and will give it a try on the bracelet .
(see my thread "hamilton qtc")
Thanks for the info!

[clockace]

i would not recommend immersing the watch with the module in it. if it leaks {and it probably will} you have just ruined your watch. before immersing any watch,especially, one that is only rated water resistant, you should have it pressure tested for leaks. older watches WILL leak at the crystal, buttons, case back, and crown if one is present. the gaskets for the most part have lost their resilience and are hard and brittle. just my 2cents. you will be sorry. . peter

[holly35]

I would only use the sonic cleaner on the bracelet and perhaps just a jewellery cleaning cloth on the g/p finish.I would never consider immersing a watch under a cleaning solution regardless of water resistance or age! ( the watch is currently with Hanno at strikes and spares in Germany,i have requested he cleans the case while the module is out of the watch)In all honesty the case and case back are in excellent condition only the polished parts have some slight tarnished areas.I will list some pics as soon as i can.Worth noting the qtc is very imposing and an ideal choice for Theo Kojak.!

[Led-Time]

This is good - http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/HAGERTY-SILVER-POLISHING-CLOTH-/150508855552?pt=UK_Jewellery_Watches_JewelleryBoxes_Supplies_CA&hash=item230b06e100#ht_500wt_1156 - it works on gold and silver finishes and removes tarnish without scratching.