Does anyone know what the self-life is for unopened L&R Watch Cleaning and Rinse solution in their original containers.

I spoke with a representative from L&R and emailed the chemist about shelf life for two of their products. Here is the letter sent and the response from them. I will more than likely use the product I have on hand this time around but will obviously try to stay within their recommended 18 months in the future.

Hi John,
I spoke with one of your co-workers. She told me to send you the 4 digit number on the yellow sticker and which type of product it is and you could tell me what the date of manufacture is by the batch number.

#111 Ultrasonic Watch Cleaning Solution Ammoniated yellow sticker # 2895
#3 Watch Rinse Solution yellow sticker #1201

Both 1 gallon bottles are factory sealed with the foil completely intact in their original L&R factory containers and the product was stored at room temperature in my office at my house, between 60 and 70 degrees. She mentioned that the self life is 18 months from the date of manufacture. What is the date of manufacture for these two items and how do you tell what the DOM is so I know when purchasing new product off the self. Also, I realize that L&R must air on the side of caution, hence the 18 month time limit to be safe. That being said, this is for my own personal use on my own watches at a hobbyist level but obviously prioritize not damaging any of my watches over saving money. Can products be safely used beyond the 18 months. I will not hold you or L&R responsible for any damage caused to my watches by using products beyond 18 months. Just looking for your opinion.

Best
Rick Johnson


and here is the response...



Hi Rick,

Thank you very much for this detailed information.

The batch numbers associated with those sticker numbers indicate the following Dates of Manufacture (DOM):

2895 - DOM was 11/16/2018.

1201 - DOM was 09/14/2018.

Regarding using the product past 18 months, since it's for personal hobby use and was stored correctly, it is likely still okay, but yes, L&R does recommend staying within that timeframe.

Thank you very much again.

Kind regards,

John Donaleski