I have an Aqua Terra. Some idiot (me) has polished the brushed side of the case trying to get a scratch out. This has removed the brushed finish and made it a smooth polish on part of the side. Can this be fixed?
It can be re brushed, but leave it to a professional. You don't want to be that kid who cuts their own hair and ends up bald, because they keep making mistakes trying to fix their previous mistake.
I’ve had good success with polishing sand paper. The 30 micron is green in color and recreates the brushed pattern as long as you are really careful to brush only in the direction of the brushed grain...
It can also be done with a moistened Scotchbrite pad. Rub ONLY with the grain. If in doubt, let a professional do it.
The challenge is making the brushing really straight and even, and perfectly matching the rest of the brushing. It can definitely be done, but it depends on how much of a perfectionist you are. There's really no harm in trying it yourself. If you're not happy, you can have it re-done.
Omega service center can probably make it perfect. Bergeon makes satin finish blocks that can probably make it better depending on the size of the area. If it’s the entire side of the watch case, I’d send to Omega... if a minor touch up I might be tempted to try Bergeon block or fiberglass brush first.. The key is you do not want to keep removing metal. I’d probably send it to Omega.
Thanks everyone, that's very reassuring! I am definitely going to let a professional do it this time as I don't trust myself to not make it worse. An expensive lesson but I will never do it again... live and learn!
without photos I will just guess that yes it would be straightforward fix. Case on flat surface with the appropriate grit to create the brush at the correct perpendicular 90 degree or what ever is the appropriate angle and then move the case along the material and you get the brush. or send to watch maker with proper tools and get it done.