Just wondering what types of brushes/wheels are typically used to
restore the satin finish on the links of a Rolex President?
Restoring the high mirror polish to the middle link is a fairly easy
task. But does anyone know what the Authorized Rolex Repair centers
use to restore the satin finish and is it a fine finish or extra fine
finish? I know there have been articles and comments on this in the
past, but I would like to specifically address the method of applying
the satin finish to the bracelet using a Foredom Flex Shaft. Thanks.
Glenn
Just wondering what types of brushes/wheels are typically used to
restore the satin finish on the links of a Rolex President?
Hi Glenn;
I don’t know what the “official” product to use is, but I’ve
restored many of these and my favorite for putting back the brushed
finish is what’s known as a “cartridge roll” also called, by old
bench rats, a “tootsie roll”. It’s a roll of sandpaper, glued into a
quite solid cylinder, about half inch in diameter and three-quarters
inch in length. Goes on a mandrel in a flex shaft. Use a new one,
as the edges get ragged after a while. A new one with a crisp edge
will allow you to make that little turn around the watch bezel on the
lugs without scratching where you don’t want it scratched. The
“fine” grit seems to match the original finish best. But you should
experiment (on a piece of brass or something). I’m a creature of
habit, you might find a better product. Keep us posted.
David L. Huffman
Glenn, I don’t know what the “Authorized Rolex Repair” centers use
but I have found that using the 3M Radial Bristle Discs work well for
satin finishes.
Joel Schwalb
@Joel_Schwalb
www.schwalbstudio.com
Hi Joel,
Thanks for you comments and thoughts on the Rolex President.
Interestingly enough, I just bought a brand new set of the 3M radial
disks and have not even used them yet. I bought the small radial
disks to be able to get into tight spots. I saw them demonstrated
at the MSJA Trade show at the Jacob Javits Center in NYC. My
question is which color have you worked with to accomplish the best
satin finish? Thanks.
Glenn
which color have you worked with to accomplish the best satin
finish? Thanks. Glenn
Hi glen. I discovered the radial sanding discs a few months ago and
they suit me so well. I used to use a brass brush, donning protective
gear and still ended up picking bits of brass out of my hair and
clothing for days after. My hands are a bit arthritic and I like
anything which takes off the pressure a bit. I find the pink (fine)
disc produces a nice soft brushed finish but I tend to use the red
(medium) disc more for sanding small pieces. I like the coarser
finish, But that’s my preference. You need to experiment with them.
There is a super fine which I have not yet tried. I get mine from
Cooksons in the UK where thy cost under =A33 each. cheers, Ruth.