The Polishing Process
Watch case and bracelet polished is a skilled process that involves removing scratches and restoring the shine to its metal surfaces, and requires specialised tools, techniques and a keen eye for detail.
Before the polishing begins, a thorough assessment is carried out by one of our in-house watchmakers or watch technicians. This involves examining the type of metal (whether it be stainless steel, gold, platinum, or titanium), and identifying the different finishes throughout. Watches often feature a combination of polish, brushed, and matte finishes, each of which require a different technique.
On completion of the assessment, the watch is disassembled, to separate the case and bracelet from the movement and other components. This step is essential to avoid damage to the internal mechanisms and ensure that only the external surfaces are polished.
The polishing starts with removing scratches and imperfections. For deeper scratches, a more abrasive compound is used initially, followed by finer compounds for lighter scratches, and to achieve a smooth finish. The part of the process requires precision, especially around the watch’s edges and corners, to maintain the integrity of the original design.
Brushed finishes are recreated using a technique called “brushing”, where a tool is used to create fine, parallel lines on the surface. This step is critical for restoring the watch’s factory finish, particularly on luxury timepieces known for their distinctive texture.
After the polishing and brushing processes are complete, the watch is thoroughly cleaned to remove any residue. It is then carefully reassembled, ensuring that all components are properly secured and aligned.
The final step of the polishing process includes a detailed inspection to confirm that the watch is not only aesthetically restored, but also fully functional.
