Maintaining proper care of your Rolex is essential to preserving its value and performance. As a prized possession, regular care ensures your watch stays in top condition, reflecting the craftsmanship that defines the Rolex brand.
However, the question of whether to polish your Rolex sparks debate among enthusiasts and Rolex owners. Some believe polishing enhances its appearance, and offers high value, while others argue it can diminish its value, especially for vintage watches.
In this guide, we explore the impact of polishing a Rolex watch during daily wear, weighing the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision about your watch’s care.
The Pros and Cons of Polishing a Rolex
Polishing a Rolex has its pros and cons, and it’s something every owner should think about.
On the plus side, polishing can bring back that fresh, shiny look to your Rolex, making it feel almost brand new again. It’s great for getting rid of those small scratch and scuffs that happen over time. Tynan et al did a study showing that keeping luxury items looking and feeling good is key to maintaining their value and brand image. But here’s where things get tricky. Polishing your timepiece can actually hurt the value of your Rolex, especially if it’s a vintage model. Collectors really love the original finish—the scratches, the patina, all those little marks that show a watch’s history. Kochkina and Kharchenko did some digging into the vintage market, and they found that untouched, original pieces usually sell for more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your Rolex
When it comes to owning a Rolex, there are definitely a few things you should avoid doing to keep it in top shape.
Avoid Over-Polishing
Polishing your Rolex too often might seem like a good idea, but it can actually do more harm than good. Every time you polish, a little bit of the metal gets worn away. If you’re polishing your Rolex Submariner every three years, you’re gradually thinning out the case or bracelet.
So, here’s the deal: while an occasional polish can keep your Rolex looking sharp, doing it too often isn’t worth the risk. It’s better to save polishing for when it’s really needed. That way, your Rolex keeps its original shape and can stay in great condition for years to come.
Avoid DIY Polishing
Trying to remove scratches from your Rolex at home might seem easy, but it’s risky. Using the wrong tools or techniques can easily mess up your watch. Rolex experts spend years mastering polishing. Just a few seconds too long on a polishing wheel can change the shape of your watch. Too little pressure, and you might end up with more scratches.
If you’re thinking about touching up your Rolex Submariner or Daytona, it’s best to let the pros handle it. A DIY attempt could end up costing you more if something goes wrong.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Using abrasive cleaning agents on your Rolex can seriously damage its finish. These harsh chemicals can:
- Strip away the protective layers, leaving the metal exposed and vulnerable to scratches.
- Over time, this can dull the shine and reduce the overall appeal of your watch.
For instance, if you use a strong cleaner on a Rolex Datejust, the once-bright surface could end up looking scratched and worn out.
Restoring Your Rolex’s Shine Safely
If your Rolex’s shine is fading, don’t worry—here’s how to safely restore it without risking damage.
Professional Polishing Services
When your Rolex loses its shine, it’s best to take it to a professional. With years of experience, they can restore its luster without damage. For example, a professional polishing service can revive your Rolex Submariner, priced between S$11,000 and S$174,000, while preserving its value.
Safe Home Cleaning Tips
For day-to-day care, you can keep your Rolex looking sharp without needing a full polish. Simple, gentle cleaning does the trick. Rolex watches are designed to need very little maintenance, so a few basic steps can go a long way.
Rolex recommends alternatives that you can try at home:
- Microfiber cloth: Wipe down your watch every now and then to get rid of fingerprints and smudges.
- Soapy water: Give the case and bracelet a gentle wash with soapy water and a soft brush. Just make sure the crown guards is screwed down tight to keep it waterproof.
Does Polishing a Rolex Void the Warranty?
Official Rolex Policy on Polishing
The simple answer is: Polishing your Rolex doesn’t void the warranty, but it’s not included in the coverage. The five-year warranty covers the following:
- Manufacturing defects
- Water resistance
- Mechanical faults
When you take your watch in for service, Rolex-certified experts will check its condition on several factors and give you an estimate.
For example, if your Rolex Datejust needs a service, the technicians will check if polishing is needed. If you go for it, polishing will be an additional charge. While it’s not covered by the warranty, keeping up with authorized servicing, including polishing, can help maintain your watch’s life value and longevity.
Authorized Service Centers vs. Independent Polishers
To help you better understand the risks between Authorized Service Centers and Independent Polishers, here’s a table outlining their differences.
|
Aspect |
Authorized Service Centers |
Independent Polishers |
|
Warranty Impact |
Maintains warranty coverage |
May void warranty if non-authorized parts are used |
|
Expertise |
Rolex-certified watchmakers with specialized training |
Varies; expertise can range from skilled to inexperienced |
|
Quality of Service |
Guaranteed use of genuine Rolex parts and correct techniques |
Quality can vary; risk of improper techniques or non-genuine parts |
|
Cost |
Generally higher; includes warranty and service documentation |
Often lower; may save money upfront but risk long-term issues |
|
Record of Service |
Documented in Rolex service history, preserving watch value |
May not be recognized by Rolex, affecting resale value |
|
Risks |
Low risk; work is done to Rolex standards |
Higher risk of damage or improper polishing, which can affect watch integrity |
For the best results and to protect your warranty, stick with an Authorized Service Center. Vast majority of independent polishers may save you money upfront but come with higher risks. Prioritize quality and long-term value for your Rolex.
Can You Polish Out Scratches on a Rolex?
Rolex watches feature brushed and polished surfaces that require different techniques.
Types of Scratches That Can Be Polished
Superficial scratches, including hairline scratches, and scratches on plexiglass crystal, on stainless steel models, like the Rolex Oyster Perpetual or Submariner, can often be polished out by a professional. For example, light surface scratches on the bracelet or case of a Rolex Submariner can usually be removed, restoring its shine.
However, deep scratches, especially on gold models like the Rolex Day-Date, are more challenging:
- Gold watches: Polishing removes a thin layer of metal, so deep scratches might still be visible.
- Frequent polishing: The urge to remove blemishes can thin out the material, especially on softer metals like gold.
- Vintage models: Deep scratches may be better left alone to preserve the original shape and value.
In some cases, it’s wise to avoid polishing deeper scratches, especially on valuable or vintage models.
Risks of Polishing Deeper Scratches
The biggest concern is that too much polishing can change the shape of your Rolex’s case, especially on models with sharp edges and bevels like the Rolex GMT-Master.
Key risks:
- Altering case shape: Excessive polishing can round out sharp edges.
- Material loss: Frequent polishing, especially on gold, can thin the watch.
Because of these other factors and risks, it’s important to carefully consider whether polishing is worth it, especially for valuable or vintage models. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult a Rolex-certified watchmaker.
Alternatives to Polishing
Embracing Patina and Natural Wear
In vintage watch collecting, patina—those scratches, nicks, and fading that come with age—is often seen as adding value and character. Collectors now prefer watches that show their original condition and age, like the Rolex Daytona with a “tropical” dial. Over time, the original black dial of these watches can fade to a rich brown due to exposure to sunlight and humidity, making them more unique and desirable.
A prime example is the Rolex Daytona reference 6241 with a Paul Newman dial, which sold at Christie’s in Dubai on March 22, 2019. It was estimated to sell for between S$263,600 and S$461,300., reflecting the high demand for watches with this kind of natural aging.
This love for patina isn’t just about Rolex. Watches from brands like Omega and Patek Philippe that show signs of natural wear are also highly valued.
Protective Measures
Here’s how to keep your Rolex scratch-free:
- Handle and store carefully: Avoid wearing your watch during heavy lifting, gardening, or other risky activities. Store it in a watch box or pouch when not in use.
- Use a Watch Protection Film: This adds an extra layer of protection, especially if you wear your Rolex often and want to guard against normal wear.
- Clean regularly: Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water to gently clean your watch, then rinse with lukewarm water to prevent scratches.
By following these tips, you can keep your Rolex looking its best for years to come.
Final Word
Deciding whether to polish your Rolex is a matter of balancing appearance and value. While polishing can enhance its shine, it may also diminish the value, especially for vintage Rolex timepieces. Carefully weigh the pros and cons and always opt for professional service when needed.
Key Takeaways
- Polishing a Rolex can enhance its appearance but might reduce its value, particularly for vintage models. However, the decision to polish is ultimately up to personal preference of a Rolex watch owner.
- Well maintained Rolex watches with natural patina, like the Rolex Daytona with a “tropical” dial, can command better price, as shown by its auction sale of up to S$461,300.
- Always seek professional service to ensure your Rolex is handled with the care and expertise it deserves when getting your watch polished.
Looking for a trusted expert? At Watch Exchange, our Swiss-trained watchmakers service over 60 luxury brands, including Richard Mille, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet, with precision and care. Contact us today to ensure your watch gets the expert attention it deserves.
