There are 3 common matrials of watch case: Titanium, Stainless steel and Alloy. And stainless steel watch is the most popular, but will a stainless steel rust? If so how to remove it?
Why Stainless Steel Watch Rust
A stainless steel watch can actually rust. Stainless steel is stainless because it has a layer of oxide covering it. This layer can rust if there’s a lack of oxygen, so make sure your watch is exposed to the air when you’re not wearing it. Salt and perspiration can also make your watches rust.
Over time, the polished look of a stainless-steel watch can begin to dull. The slight openings between the links of metal bracelets are also privy to settling dust and dirt, which can lead to wear or even corrosion. Even with water-resistant designs, stainless steel watches can be vulnerable to rust due to frequent swimming, saltwater exposure or even just frequent sweating.
How to Remove the Rust on Watches
Therefore you need to maintain your watches even it is stainless steel.
- Start by wiping down the watch with a soft cloth to remove initial layers of dirt, dust or grime. You can use paper towel for this, but a microfiber or chamois cloth is recommended. In a pinch, a clean dish towel or t-shirt hem will work just fine, but likely won’t remove as much grime as a finer, softer cloth.
- Use a damp, clean toothbrush to get into the corners of the stainless-steel watch case or bracelet. Be mindful of how much pressure you apply, as a heavy hand can cause unwanted scratches.
- Use a hair dryer on a low-heat setting to quickly dry the watch case. Spray glass cleaner on a soft cloth, and wipe down the watch face, case and bracelet to refresh the shine.
The cleaning won’t make a difference of your wrist watch if you don’t store them properly. Many watches have been destroyed by mold, mildew, and corrosion because they were tucked away in a damp, dark box or storage cabinet for years before their value was realized.
Use a watch box for long-term storage, and avoid high temperature heat, cold, and humidity, as they will corrode your watch or break it. Take good care of your watch now, and it will be a treasure forever.