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Posted: 12/14/2005 6:14:12 PM EDT
I have a watch I really like, but it has several fine scratches on the crystal. What is the best way to remove them?
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:14:42 PM EDT
[#1]
Jeweler
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:15:59 PM EDT
[#2]
Is the crystal acrylic, glass, mineral glass, or sapphire?

If it's acrylic, it'll buff out. If it's glass or mineral glass, it'll be harder to do. If it's sapphire, you'll probably have to replace the crystal. In any case, take it to a watch repair specialist if you want it done right.
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:22:42 PM EDT
[#3]

Quoted:
Jeweler



I'll second that, why risk burning on a wheel yourself
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:23:56 PM EDT
[#4]
If it is plastic (acrylic, etc), sand lightly with 800 silicon carbide paper, then 1000, then 1200, then 1500.  If the scratches are deep, start with the 800. If very light scratches, start with 1000.

The 800 will remove the scratches, the 1000, will remove the scratches from the 800, etc.

Finally, with a soft cloth, use some Kit ScratchOut.  This is a very fine plastic polish found in automotive stores.  Comes in a yellow bottle.  Polishing just a few minutes will bring it back up to clear.
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:27:35 PM EDT
[#5]
If it is an acrylic crystal then Polywatch and elbow grease will get rid of scratches.

If it is glass, then the watch is probably not worth restoring.

If it is sapphire (very difficult to scratch) get a pro to take care of it. They will probably end up replacing the crystal.
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:47:20 PM EDT
[#6]
If it is plastic, rub toothpaste on it and rub it off with a tissue. I dunno how it works with other watch faces, i'm pretty sure it works with most types.....

toothpaste is a great mild abrasive for taking scratches out of many things (like cd's)
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:48:54 PM EDT
[#7]

If it is plastic, try Brasso, the metal polish.  I have used it to repair scratches in all kinds of plastic displays.

I have never had it damage what I was working on, but being a chemical compound I'd say be careful and/or test it in an inconspicuous spot.

Jim
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:52:56 PM EDT
[#8]
No, its glass or mineral glass...scratched it climbing over an iron gate...off to the jewlers I guess...
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 6:55:52 PM EDT
[#9]
Try Jeweler's Rouge. It is a very soft rubbing compound.
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 7:03:55 PM EDT
[#10]

Quoted:
Is the crystal acrylic, glass, mineral glass, or sapphire?

If it's acrylic, it'll buff out. If it's glass or mineral glass, it'll be harder to do. If it's sapphire, you'll probably have to replace the crystal. In any case, take it to a watch repair specialist if you want it done right.



+1 straight talk
Link Posted: 12/14/2005 7:11:17 PM EDT
[#11]
Thanks y'all!
Link Posted: 12/15/2005 7:26:10 AM EDT
[#12]

Quoted:
If it is plastic, rub toothpaste on it and rub it off with a tissue. I dunno how it works with other watch faces, i'm pretty sure it works with most types.....

toothpaste is a great mild abrasive for taking scratches out of many things (like cd's)



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