Polishing

Polishing is the refinishing of a watch's case and bracelet to remove scratches and wear, usually done during a service or before resale.

It makes a watch look fresher, but it removes metal. Done heavily or repeatedly, it softens the sharp edges and flat surfaces the maker designed, which collectors call the case lines, and that can reduce the value of a collectible piece.

Whether to polish depends on the watch and the buyer. Many dealers leave collectible pieces unpolished and disclose any polishing on the pieces they do refinish.