Cleaning Rolex. Is this normal?

[sphereman]

Hello.

I have an urging question.
I just bought a used SD. I used the Rolex cleaning cloth to clean the watch and the cloth got lots of black dirts or gooks off the watch. Is this normal for a used Rolex?

[Topic]

My watch is 3-4 months old and it never stained my cloth, if this is your first time cleaning it then the previous owner might not have kept it clean which is not a big deal. It shouldn't happen next time you clean it. I clean mine once per week with warm water and soap.

[buz-lh]

I think your watch just needs a good bath.

[colemanitis]

I agree with the others. There's nothing wrong with your watch, other than it's just dirty. Clean it using a soft toothbrush, mild soap, and warm water. I clean mine once every week theis way whether it needs it or not.

[sphereman]

thanks, guys..
i will clean with some warm water as suggested!

[East Bay Rider]

What kind of soap do you use? I've used both dish-washing soap and liquid hand soap. Is one better than the other?

[BuffaloRolex]

Originally Posted by East Bay Rider

What kind of soap do you use? I've used both dish-washing soap and liquid hand soap. Is one better than the other?

x2. I always hear, "use a mild soap." What exactly is a mild soap? One without any citrus/acidic content? Any recommended type?

[buz-lh]

I've seen where many have advised against using dishwashing soap as there are elements in it that can do damage. I use plain hand soap with no additives and a very soft toothbrush.

[vh_bu98]

My new Rolexes leave black spots on the cloth so there's nothing to worry about. It's just oil from your skin and dirt throughout the day.

[Topic]

i use Dove brand soap, after hearing all these crazy Rolex surviving stories i really doubt the other soaps will ruin your watch.

[robbyrolex]

Baby soap works good

[abigsecret]

Originally Posted by BuffaloRolex

x2. I always hear, "use a mild soap." What exactly is a mild soap? One without any citrus/acidic content? Any recommended type?

For the people in the US... use "simple green" (available everywhere)

[CPCC]

Its normal, just tells you a little about the hygeine of the previous owner

[sheldonsmith]

Baby shampoo, or toothpaste, and a Googalie cloth to wipe clean works well....

-Sheldon

[abigsecret]

Originally Posted by sheldonsmith

Baby shampoo, or toothpaste, and a Googalie cloth to wipe clean works well....

-Sheldon

NEVER use toothpaste! Appears to give a beautiful shine, but is too abrasive, and will leave a residue that will cause your bracelet to wear faster!

[Solo118]

I just use the soap in the shower, I try not to get shampoo on it though

[jasonbellevue]

I always use my 5 yr. old's liquid baby soap. You know what they say, if it's gentle enough for baby's skin it's gentle enough for your Rolex.

And I agree with Mireyna, never use toothpaste.

[Incurable]

Liquid dishwashing soap should be fine... Just make sure we're talking HAND dishwashing soap, not automatic like Electrosol or others. Those are a whole other animal, pretty caustic. For those using shampoo in the shower, do you cream rinse? Does your bracelet come out tangle free, full of luster, body and free of split-ends? For those who use toothbrushes, believe it or not, even they will scratch polished surfaces like the case sides. Best to stick to your fingers or a soft cotton rag (like those sold for car finishing).

[Andad]

Originally Posted by sheldonsmith

Baby shampoo, or toothpaste, and a Googalie cloth to wipe clean works well....

-Sheldon

Ha Ha Sheldon - good one.
I hesitated on the link cos I thought it was a joke.

Now I know what a Googalie cloth is.

[entropydave]

...don't put it in your dishwasher I think these fellows are saying...

[sevykor]

Try a hand soap like dial etc. Most have a light lotion/moisturizer that will keep the bracelet a bit lubed and quiet too. Dish soaps strip grease and some think may also dry out gaskets.

[fear]

I've used Oxyclean on my everyday watches.

[walds11]

It's normal. Give her a bath once in a while.

[Art 1]

Normal, infact that's not too bad. Seen way worse.

[StanGMT]

I've always just used whatever soap's handy on my SS GMT - or dishwashing detergent (called washing-up liquid in the UK) or even hair shampoo! The important thing is that you give it a good rinse afterwards using warm running water to remove all traces of soap/detergent, before gently drying and polishing it with a soft cloth.

Stan.

[ROLEX MAN]

Just go swimming with it!

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Even NEW Rolex watches can leave dark marks on your wrist. It comes from the oiled links of the bracelet. After a couple of washings, it goes away.

I use a mild, liquid, non-perfumed, non-allergenic handwashing soap called "Sanex". Water should be lukewarm. Afterwards just dry the watch in a soft cotton cloth.

[marshallr47]

I use regular hand soap. Once a week I use a soft toothbrush with regular hand soap. It works just fine for me.

[fwellers]

dish soap and soft toothbrush here. I just keep the soap away from the crown. I'm mainly just washing the bracelet anyway. not the watch head.

[Trainer]

Ivory hand soap (it's 99 & 99/100's % Pure so they say). I work up a lather and gently wash the band and watch then rinse in luke-warm water.
Wash appx. once per month, unless worn in salt water or hot tub and then I give her a bath shortly after the acqua experience.

Dry with a soft cloth and put her down for a little nap.

Tempus Fugit,

Trainer