I bought this to clean watch parts.  The manufacturer recommends water but I use a Zenith biodegradable product (well ventillated) and it does just fine.  I also use it to clean cases.  It works as well as any dipping product.  It also gives you the option to use heat.  A good feature in helping to remove old varnished oil.  I've saved two watches that wouldn't come clean using my old cleaner.  I don't condone using anything but what the manufacturer reccommends.  That's just me.