Everybody has heard of Rolex watched. Be that because someone got busted after a jewelry store heist in New York, or whether someone managed to win one through a legitimate Facebook or email campaign, it is the watch that everybody secretly dreams of. And those who do own one cherish it! Michael Briese has developed some key pieces of advice for those who are lucky enough to own such a watch.
Michael Briese on Caring for a Rolex
- You must regularly wear your Rolex
Yes, a Rolex is a showcase piece, but you do have to wear it every once in a while. This makes sure that the movements stay properly lubricated, as the lubricant will harden if it’s not used, and this can cause the watch to break. If you can’t wear it regularly, then wind it up at least weekly.
- You must clean it properly
The second key issue is that you clean it properly. This has to be done the right way, however, so that you don’t accidentally damage your watch. Proper cleaning should, if at all possible, be done by a professional. If you must do it yourself:
- Make sure the winding crown is tight on the case before you start.
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Rinse the watch with lukewarm water.
- Have a bowl ready with lukewarm water, adding a mild soap (ammonia-free).
- Apply the soapy water, with your hands, all over the watch.
- Gently scrub the watch using an old toothbrush. Submerge the watch regularly in the soapy water.
- Rinse the watch once clean.
- Use a soft, clean, dry cloth to pat the watch dry.
- Use a hair dryer to gently remove any remaining water between the links.
- Remove any scratches of the bracelet
As much as Rolexes are amazing watches, the bracelet is prone to scratches. This is particularly true with the Oyster. You can avoid this by regularly polishing your bracelet using a special cloth. Do make sure, however, that you only use this cloth as directed.
- Wind your Rolex regularly
All Rolexes, except the Oysterquartz, are self-winding, perpetual watches. The power reserve is around 48 hours, after which it will stop running. However, it is better to wind it regularly instead, so that it doesn’t ever completely stop. Don’t wind it while wearing it, however. You should also never shake the watch, even if it looks dead or if it doesn’t start again after winding it up, it will eventually start again. You cannot overwind your watch, however, so that is one less thing to worry about.
- Waterproof care
A Rolex is generally guaranteed to be waterproof up to 330 feet. This means you can shower and swim with it. You can even go diving with it. However, you need to ask yourself whether you really want to do that. You would be surprised at how many expensive watches and pieces of jewelry have been found on the bottom of the sea…