Here’s my dad’s daily wearer, an automatic Juvenia. And when I say daily, it’s hardly been off his wrist, except at night and when away for occasional servicing, in nearly 60 years. A spring bar broke so he gave it to me to sort out. I’ve replaced both but I’d like to clean it up before handing it back to him. It’s thick with 50% my dna between the lugs. What would you say is the best way to give the case a clean? It’s gold. Also, while I’m here, it has an Accurist movement. Why might that be? thank you. Obligatory picture:
Yes, I understand, and in fact I think it desperately needs a service, but he doesn't care enough about it. When it stops he'll get it done.
Place a small amount of toothpaste onto a cotton ball, a cleaning cloth, or even a Q tip and then carefully rub the toothpaste over the spots cleaning them gently yet firmly. Start by cleaning the inside of the wristband and move to the outside of the band and finally and carefully the main watch itself. When finished take a light damp cloth and dry the watch,
To remove grunge I just use some alcohol to wipe the watch as it evaporates fast. I get an old toothbrush damp with alcohol for the crevices and between the lugs. After I use a jewelry polishing cloth to kind of brighten things up. For acrylic crystals I use car buffing compound on a rag. No need for fancy stuff.
A service would be a good idea, but removing the movement and cleaning the case is not as complicated as a service.