For really oily stuff I use lighter fuel before using Priory Polish cleaner. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CLOCK-CLEANING-CONCENTRATE-NO-1-250MLS-/250475705782?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3a5183f5b6 I started using this stuff a few months ago and the results are excellent. Brass and plated movements come up like new. I rinse with hot water, then blow off the excess before dropping them in isopropyl alcohol for the final rinse to make sure all the water is gone. I then dry off th alcohol with a blower.Have a look at the pictures in this thread, as this is how this one was cleaned.
http://www.watchrepairtalk.com/topic/1538-1913-silver-trench-watch/?hl=%2B1913+%2Btrench+%2Bwatch