IronX or Trix does make the claying process easier and faster since it get rid of most of the above surface contaminants.
As you probably know by now.... i like trying out new products. It drives the wife crazy.
I tried Eagle One many years ago. I honestly don't remember much from it. I think it was middle of the road since it didn't leave any lasting memory.
Here is the consolidated version of all the conversations we had so far.
Get some good quality brushes.
Clean your wheels with the aid of a safe cleaner (CG Diablo, Eagle one, Etc).
Use a stronger chemical if necessary (IronX, Trix, Sonax).
Clay if possible.
Once the wheels are clean, protect them with a coating (Opti-coat, Cquartz. etc) or with a high temp tolerant sealant (Permanon, CG wheel Wax, Collinite).
When the above steps are done then all you do going forward is maintenance washes with brushes, car soap ,and water. You would reapply the sealant several times over the course of the year or when you feel necessary. A Coating will last for years in the right condition.
I hope this helps. If you are in Nor Cal, I would say come over and I will show you but good Luck anyways.