epiphanist1248 Report post Posted February 28, 2018 I'm repairing/replacing a watch band for a family friend. I want to use the original hardware, but it's not in great shape. It's cheap brass-plated and it has some kind of ... gunk? ... on it from the old strap. I've tried a few home remedies for cleaning brass with only limited success. Should I try taking a wire brush to it? I don't want to wreck it, otherwise I'll have to buy a new buckle set, which means extra cost for the customer (and me). Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Webicons Report post Posted February 28, 2018 (edited) If it’s brass plated I wouldn’t do it. The gunk may be actually below the plating and abrasives may exacerbate an existing crack. If it won’t come off with a toothbrush, soap and hot water then let it go. TheBuckleGuy.com has quite a selection of watch buckles for a few bucks. If you’re going through the trouble of making a new strap then definitely worth the investment. If nothing else, warn the customer of what might happen in writing. Edited February 28, 2018 by Webicons Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Nuttish Report post Posted June 9, 2018 This is what ultrasonic cleaners are for. Degreaser or mineral spirits should help a lot. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
