How to Clean Your Watch Like a Professional

As someone who has spent over five years researching and developing safe watch care solutions with AIS Collective, I can tell you that cleaning your watch isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving craftsmanship.

When we first started AIS, we were the first company to dedicate R&D to specialized watch cleaning, because we saw a clear gap: collectors and enthusiasts had incredible timepieces but lacked professional-grade, safe cleaning solutions. Today, our products are trusted by some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands and retailers, and I want to share how you can clean your watch safely at home.

Step 1: Understand Your Watch Materials

Every watch is different. Hence knowing the materials and understanding the watches’ properties is key:

Metal cases and bracelets – stainless steel, gold, titanium, tantalum, carbon fibre, composites

Rubber or composite straps – often on modern sports watches

Leather straps – delicate and porous, requiring gentle care and the right moisturisation to extend their lifespan

Water Resistance Rating – can you use water-based cleaning products or will it penetrate the case

Each surface needs the right approach to avoid damage.

 

Step 2: Choose Safe, Proven Cleaning Tools

When we began formulating our products, we wanted to solve a problem we had as a collector: harsh household cleaners and rough cloths can scratch finishes, degrade rubber, or dry out leather. That’s why we created solutions specifically for watch care:

 

For watch cases and metal or rubber bracelets -AIS Collective ChronoPen  

• ▶ Swiss-made, gentle yet effective formula
  
• ▶ Safe on all metals and composite watch materials, as long as the watch is water resistant
  
• ▶ Officially supplied to established Swiss watch brands, and renowned luxury watch retailers including CHRIST Boutiques in Switzerland and Seddiqi & Sons in the UAE
  
  

For leather straps - AIS Collective ChronoLeatherPen 

• ▶ Cleans and conditions leather without exhausting the material
  
• ▶ Maintains flexibility and finish for long-term strap health and regular use can expand the life span of the strap
  
• ▶ Has been dermatologically tested in Switzerland and been approved as safe
  

 

Step 3: Follow a Professional Cleaning Routine

 

Metal & Rubber

1. Use the ChronoPen and gently scrub with the integrated soft brush, follow our instructions and how-to as explained here or on the product’s box.

2. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or cotton towel.

 

Leather Straps

1. Apply the ChronoLeatherPen sparingly, also as explained in more detail here.

2. Wipe gently with a soft cloth which comes with the ChronoLeatherPen.

3. Let the strap air dry naturally, away from heat or sunlight to cure.

Step 4: Maintain Your Watch Like a Collector

I recommend:

1. Quick rinse under water after exposure to sweat, sunscreen, or salt water

2. Quick wipe-downs with a ChronoCloth or other microfibre, in case the watch is not water resistant or you are not sure about it

3. Thorough cleanings every few weeks if worn daily

4. Professional servicing periodically for water resistance and mechanical health

When we started AIS Collective, our mission was simple: give collectors and enthusiasts the right tools to care for their watches, as most manufacturers do not offer the right solutions for home-use. After more than five years of focused R&D, our ChronoPen and ChronoLeatherPen make it possible to maintain your watch safely, at home, with professional-grade results.

Whether you’re caring for a family heirloom or your latest acquisition, the right routine will keep your watch looking and performing at its best for years to come.

Happy cleaning!

Said