Remove scratches from brushed and polished steel

[Jong]

I accidentally scratched my AP RO 15400. It has some big and small scratches on and around the bezel and a bit on the bracelet. I've been searching for ways to remove scratches but most posts are about polished steel and it's hard to find threads with the search function... (I keep getting sale posts)

It is hard to picture the scratches but here is a picture:

It's mostly around the 7 and 8 markers. Also other spots but it's the most visible here.

I usually don't mind small scratches but there is a very ugly line across the bottom side of the bezel which I can't get on camera. Really hoping to be able to get some of these out.

 

[pete195]

zocker has a post on this

 

[SSTEEL]

Is your watch a high end rep, or a cheaper model of the more expensive ones of the same model? Reason I ask is that the bezel on the high end rep is screws onto the mid-case, whereas the lower end reps, its glued onto the mid-case. You would need to remove the bezel/crystal, and re-brush the bezel following the helpful guide within these very forums.

 

[nofitstate]

It's pretty easy to do if you have the know how. I've done an AP diver bezel and a couple BR02 bezels, though they take a very different approach.

You need to remove the bezel and press out the crystal. Then in a controlled one direction only movement to follow the existing finish, re-grain the bezel face on a sheet of wet and dry paper. You'll need to experiment with which grit size produces the best match finish. It will be somewhere around 180 grit going from my experience. Then using a Dremel type tool and firm felt polishing head and some finishing polish you can go round the polished edges if needed. Though as it would be your first time I'd mask up the re-grained bezel face first in case you slip.

 

[bc1221]

Different grades of sandpaper and a scotchbrite pad could fix this.

I'd remove the bezel if possible though. If you can't, tape up the crystal and all the screws

 

[Jong]

Oh wow, I didn't know it was such a hard task. I thought there would be some simple products to remove some small scratches. Again, I don't mind the bumps but small lines across the whole bezel makes me sad.

This is the best version Miyota. So a high end one. I think I'll just use some cape cod for the polished parts. Is there something similar for the brushes parts? How well does it work with scotchbrite or low grade sandpaper?

 

[nofitstate]

Oh wow, I didn't know it was such a hard task. I thought there would be some simple products to remove some small scratches. Again, I don't mind the bumps but small lines across the whole bezel makes me sad.

This is the best version Miyota. So a high end one. I think I'll just use some cape cod for the polished parts. Is there something similar for the brushes parts? How well does it work with scotchbrite or low grade sandpaper?

Do not even attempt to refinish the brushed bezel face without the crystal removed! Any attempt to do it without removing it will look much worse then it is now and you run the risk of scratching the crystal too!!

If you really want it looking it's best, then I suggest you send it to some one who knows what thy are doing.

 

[fortis Persicum]

I have a DIY for this. Search my posts and you will see how to fix it

 

[adamweby]

I would send it out.

 

[bc1221]

Brushed steel isn't that hard to get scratches out of if it's not too deep.
The problem with yours is gonna be the screws.

Youll either her have to take them all out (basically dismantling the watch) or slap some tape over them.
Same with the crystal.

If the scratches arnt deep, I'd say just sand the area going with the grain with high grit sandpaper and then finish it off with steel wool.

If you've never done this kinds work though, I'd leave it to someone who has.

Ive be done wet sanding and polishing on cars and the first time I did that, I was terrified. :lol:

since youre in you're EU, send it to Kenny or ssteel. I think they can do that

 

[fortis Persicum]

Just look for my post. If done properly, no need to take off anything. Its an easy fix. Just need lots of tape, steady hand and vola

 

[Jong]

Will follow fortis' thread. Btw finally found the right angle and light to show the long scratch on the bottom of the bezel;

Heartbreaking ;(