Scratches in steel and titanium

Hello everyone,

I saw some discussions about scratches on ceramic watches, however my search was not successful regarding scratches on steel and titanium. See below photos - both my Laureus Chrono (Steel) as well as my Aquatimer 2000 (Titanium) have sustained several "bad" scratches. I really don't know how this always happens to me, but somehow seem to be specialised in scratching watches. Having shown them to the guys at the IWC boutique, I was advised that the watches would need to be sent to Schaffhausen - apparently the local representation here in UAE is not able to help. Are there any other suggestions that you have on solving those scratches yourself? I just can't live without my watches for such a long trip to Schaffhausen and back:-)

Thank you for your comments.

Hi OB,

Well, those scratches look pretty big! That must give you a lot of pain. I think there is a difference in both materials. For instance the steel one is polished or satin polished. The titanium has a different texture, like my titanium Ingenieur. I am sure in Schaffhausen they will know what to do. I have seen scratch pens, available on the internet, apparently you can remove scratches with them. Never used it myself though. If it was my own watch, I would never try and fix it myself. An IWC dealer can polish your watch, I am sure, but with different types of polish methods on one watch I think it would be a bit difficult.

OB,

When you send it in for serving they will make it look almost brand new, until you get a new scratch on it. If you wear your watch it's going to happen.

Kevin

True fact. If you would have it fixed and then get scratches again, what would be the point. Every scratch also tells a story. For me, I am always aware when I wear my IWC, and can honestly say I never scratched it once. For instance when I pick something up, always do it with my other hand.... A bit compulsive behaviour maybe, but it's better than being sick for a week when I would make a big scratch..... Here's an idea: try not to make new scratches for a few months, when you succeed, than it would be worth it to have your watch fixed. Good luck!

Melchior

Thanks guys. I for sure try to pay better attention, but then accidents do happen. The only thing I am a bit frustrated about is the fact that IWC is unable to do the polishing at the boutique / AD. I guess I will have to wait until I send my watches in for service.

Oliver

Specialist apparatus and well trained personnel are required for polishing. Perhaps one day you will have a tour of the IWC Schaffhausen HQ and you will understand why such tasks are not possible in a boutique/AD - which has a completely different purpose.

How about sending one in and paying the price and the length of time without and then you have an idea of the cost for the second one. It isn't a cheap business by all accounts. I think, rather than know, your AT will be more expensive to deal with.

You're probably right, I WILL have to send them in. Strange thing: today I visited the Dubai AD at Dubai Mall and was told the removal of scratches could be done in Dubai. The Abu Dhabi boutique told me that it is NOT possible here in the UAE and that the watches must be sent to Schaffhausen. Does anyone know the true answer?