How To Clean A Ceramic Watch Without Looking Like an Amateur

Ceramic watches are the secret weapon of the modern collector. 

Sleek, scratch-resistant, and usually found on the wrist of someone who understands quiet confidence. But even the toughest materials need a bit of attention.

A full-ceramic chronograph might resist scratches better than steel, but it still collects oil, sunscreen and fingerprints.

These surfaces may be hard to mark, but they are just as easy to smudge. Polished ceramic can start to look murky, while matte finishes can trap dust and grime in ways that dull the entire case.

Ceramic Is Not Just Fancy Plastic

Watch-grade ceramic is engineered zirconium oxide or silicon nitride, fused with minerals and sintered at high temperatures. The result is a lightweight, hypoallergenic and corrosion-resistant material that outlasts stainless steel when it comes to surface wear.

Every serious brand is using ceramic for different purposes. Omega leads with its Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon range, where the entire case, pushers and bezel are made from black ceramic. Zenith adds some coastal energy with its DEFY Skyline White Surfer, which uses white ceramic and a skeletonised dial. IWC prefers a more muted tone in its Top Gun Mojave Desert models, while Hublot continues pushing bold colours across its Big Bang lineup.

Ceramic doesn’t scratch, doesn’t tarnish, and retains colour better than any coated metal. But like anything worn daily, it still needs to be cleaned properly.

Stop Using Your Shirt

A ceramic case might resist scratches, but your shirt sleeve is still a terrible cleaning tool. It likely carries deodorant, food oil, or other fabric contaminants.

Wiping with cotton can push oil deeper into the finish, not remove it.

Get the Right Gear

The correct cleaning process starts with the right equipment:

• A soft-bristle brush
• A clean microfibre cloth
• A ceramic-safe watch cleaner like Heist Watch & Jewellery Cleaner

The Heist solution is all-natural and pH neutral, which means it’s safe for matte, polished, white or coloured ceramic cases. Avoid household cleaners, vinegar or dish soap.

Step-By-Step Process

1. Wipe it down
Use a slightly damp microfibre cloth to remove surface grime. This removes loose particles before brushing and reduces the risk of micro-abrasion.

2. Brush with care
Spray the brush with the cleaning solution and gently scrub around the crown, lugs, caseback, pushers and links. Use short, controlled strokes and let the solution do the work. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or digging into edges.

3. Rinse, don’t soak
Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover product. Avoid running water or submerging the watch, even if it’s rated for water resistance.

4. Dry properly
Pat the case and bracelet dry with a fresh microfibre cloth. Let the watch air dry completely before wearing or storing it.

Models That Deserve the Effort

Watches like the Tudor Black Bay Ceramic, the Richard Mille RM 055 Bubba Watson and the Chanel J12 Phantom are all constructed from high-performance ceramic and designed for longevity.

But matte finishes can show oil smears, and white ceramic can discolour with neglect. Regular cleaning helps preserve that fresh-from-the-boutique look.

Hublot’s white Big Bang and IWC’s desert-toned Top Gun both use matte ceramic finishes that look incredible when clean but quickly lose their edge under daily wear.

Avoid These Mistakes

Do not polish ceramic. Most ceramic watches are finished at the factory, and there is no way to refinish a chipped or dulled surface without replacing the case or links.

Do not use ultrasonic cleaners. While safe for some metals, the vibration can stress or crack ceramic under the wrong conditions.

Do not use abrasive products like toothpaste, baking soda or rough cloths. These will not improve the finish and may damage other components like rubber seals or coated dials.

Final Thoughts

Ceramic watches offer a near-indestructible surface with a premium feel and modern appeal.

They are for collectors who value longevity and refinement without the need for daily polishing. With the right cleaner and a few minutes each month, these watches can look immaculate for years.

Cleaning a ceramic watch isn’t about restoring damage. It’s about preserving the crisp lines, the sharp edges, and the deep colours that made you choose it in the first place.

Take care of it properly and it will continue to do what it does best: look clean, stay sharp, and never try too hard.