Your watch goes through a lot — dust, sweat, moisture, accidental knocks. Keeping it clean doesn't just make it look good. It extends the life of the movement, prevents strap degradation and keeps the case looking new for years.
Here's how to do it properly at home, no special tools needed.
What You Need
- Soft toothbrush (unused)
- Microfiber cloth
- Mild soap (dish soap works)
- Lukewarm water
- Cotton buds
Cleaning a Stainless Steel Bracelet
Stainless steel collects sweat and grime in the links over time. Whether you wear an all-steel Naviforce watch or a Mini Focus sport chronograph, dip the toothbrush in soapy water and gently scrub between the links. Rinse with clean water, then dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth. Never leave it wet — moisture in the links causes rust over time.
Cleaning a Silicon Strap
Silicon is the easiest to clean. Popular across active styles like Mini Focus silicone straps, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, rinse and dry. Avoid harsh chemicals — they dry out silicon and cause it to crack at the buckle holes.
Cleaning a Leather Strap
Leather and water don't mix well. Classic executive watches like Reward timepieces and leather-strap Naviforce editions need gentle care. Use a barely damp cloth to wipe the surface gently. Never submerge it. Once a month, apply a tiny amount of leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
Cleaning the Watch Case and Crystal
Use a slightly damp cotton bud to clean around the crown and pushers where dirt accumulates. Wipe the crystal (glass) with a dry microfiber cloth in gentle circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard on the crystal.
Storage Tips
When not wearing your watch, store it in its box or a watch pouch. Keep it away from direct sunlight and magnets (speakers, laptop sides). If you have multiple watches, keep them separated so they don't scratch each other.
When to Service
Quartz watches are low maintenance. Change the battery every 1–2 years. If the watch stops keeping accurate time or the crown becomes stiff, it's time for a service. Most watchmakers in India charge ₹300–₹800 for a basic quartz service.
A watch you care for will serve you for a decade. A watch you neglect will look tired in a year.