If you’re a watch enthusiast or a jeweler working with delicate timepieces, then you know the importance of keeping watch parts clean. However, traditional cleaning methods can be time-consuming and ineffective. That’s where ultrasonic cleaners come in handy. They use high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt and grime from every nook and cranny of a watch part, making them sparkle like new. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about cleaning watch parts using an ultrasonic cleaner. From the benefits to the process, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!

A Beginner’s Guide to Cleaning Watch Parts using an Ultrasonic Cleaner

Introduction

Cleaning watch parts can be a daunting task, but with the help of ultrasonic cleaners, it can become a breeze. Professional watchmakers use ultrasonic cleaners in their daily routine to ensure that watch parts are properly cleaned and maintained. In this beginner’s guide, we will discuss what ultrasonic cleaners are, how to use them, and some important safety tips to follow.

What are Ultrasonic Cleaners?

Ultrasonic cleaners are cleaning machines that use ultrasonic sound waves to create tiny bubbles that implode onto watch parts, removing dirt and grease. The process is called cavitation, and it is highly effective at cleaning even the tiniest of parts.

Safety Tips

Before using an ultrasonic cleaner, it is important to follow some safety tips to avoid any accidents. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling cleaning solutions.
• Do not touch the cleaning solution with your bare hands.
• Never leave the cleaner unattended while running.
• Use appropriate cleaning solutions for the materials you are cleaning.

How to Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner

Using an ultrasonic cleaner is easy, and with the right techniques, you can achieve excellent results. Here are some steps to follow when using an ultrasonic cleaner:

1. Clean the watch parts with a soft brush to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Fill the ultrasonic cleaner tank with the appropriate cleaning solution, either solvent-based or water-based.
3. Turn the cleaner on and make sure it is running at 40 kilohertz or higher.
4. Place the watch parts into the basket and lower it into the cleaning solution.
5. Run the cleaner for the recommended time, usually 3-5 minutes.
6. After the cleaning cycle is complete, rinse the parts with clean water and dry them with a soft cloth.

Benchtop Ultrasonic Cleaners

Professional ultrasonic cleaners can be expensive, but benchtop cleaners can still be effective for cleaning watch parts. They are smaller and less powerful than professional cleaners, but they can still get the job done.

Dead Spots

Dead spots in ultrasonic cleaners are areas where there is less cleaning taking place. This usually occurs in the lower kilohertz ultrasonic machines. To avoid dead spots, it is recommended to use an ultrasonic cleaner that runs at 40 kilohertz or higher.  

 

 

WATCHMAKING TOOLS SEEN IN THIS VIDEO ARE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON!

vvv Click the product images below vvv

 

Bergeon Screwdriver Set

 

Dumont Tweezer #3

 

Bergeon Springbar Tool

 

Bergeon Case Opening Ball

 

Bergeon Presto Hand Removal Tool

 

Bergeon Movement Holder

 

Horotec Hand Setting Tools

 

Rodico

 

Bergeon Blower

 

Bergeon Case Opening Knife

 

Bergeon Quick Service Kit

 

Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine

 

Amscope Microscope

 

Multifunction Timegrapher

 

Sanding Sticks

 

 

CAMERAS AND AUDIO:

 

Main Camera, Sony A7III

 

Secondary Camera, Sony RX100

 

Tertiary Camera, Sony A6400

 

Main Macro Lens, Sigma 70mm f/2.8

 

Secondary Macro, Laowa 100mm f/2.8

 

Camlink 4k Video Converter

 

Shure MV7 Microphone

 

Audio Recorder, ZOOM H6

 

Small Sirui Tripod

 

Sirui Tripod Head for Overhead Camera

 

COMPUTER STUFF:

 

Apple Macbook Pro

 

Synology NAS

 

Seagate HDDs for NAS

 

Samsung Portable Drive

 

Conclusion

Cleaning watch parts is an essential part of watch maintenance, and ultrasonic cleaners make the process much easier. Follow the safety tips, use appropriate cleaning solutions, and use an ultrasonic cleaner with a frequency of 40 kilohertz or higher for effective cleaning. With practice and patience, cleaning watch parts using an ultrasonic cleaner can become a simple task.

FAQs

1. Can I use any cleaning solution in an ultrasonic cleaner? It is important to use appropriate cleaning solutions for the materials you are cleaning. Solvent-based solutions are recommended for non-porous materials, while water-based solutions are suitable for porous materials.
2. Do I need protective gear when using an ultrasonic cleaner? Yes, it is recommended to wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling cleaning solutions.
3. How long should I run the cleaning cycle for? The recommended time for a cleaning cycle is usually 3-5 minutes.
4. Can I use a benchtop ultrasonic cleaner for professional use? Benchtop ultrasonic cleaners are smaller and less powerful than professional cleaners, but they can still be effective for cleaning watch parts.
5. What frequency should an ultrasonic cleaner run at? To avoid dead spots, it is recommended to use an ultrasonic cleaner that runs at 40 kilohertz or higher.