Guide to Watch Crystals
Introduction to Watch Crystals
A watch crystal is the transparent cover of a watch, protecting its dial and hands. At once rugged enough to withstand everyday wear and elegant enough to display the masterful craftsmanship beneath, a watch crystal can be made from a wide range of materials, each with different levels of strength. Sapphire crystals offer the most scratch resistance and durability, but plastic and glass are also hard-wearing. Our team at Northeastern Fine Jewelry has put together a guide to understanding the difference between watch crystal materials that can help you find the right one for your watches.
Sapphire Crystal
Sapphire is the second-hardest material in the world, after the diamond, made by crystallizing pure aluminum oxide. This material is extremely durable and scratch resistant, ideal for the most longevity. The hardness of sapphire is 9 on the Mohs scale, which means that it requires a diamond to scratch it. Sapphire is also very heat resistant. Sapphire crystal emits a radiant shine and is the most reflective of the watch crystals. Although it requires the most investment, it’s worth the price.
Mineral Crystal
Mineral watch crystals, also known as “Hardlex,” are made from the same material as glass, but the manufacturing process is different. The process of making mineral crystals requires high temperatures and pressure to produce a strong crystal that can resist scratches and impacts. This is why mineral crystals are often used for luxury watch faces. Mineral crystal glass is sometimes coated in anti-reflective coating for clearer watch face visibility.
Acrylic Crystal
Acrylic watch crystals are an affordable way to dress up an otherwise simple watch. They come in many different shapes and sizes and can be used in both men's and women's watches. Acrylic watch crystals are made from a type of plastic that is designed to look like glass but is much lighter weight and more flexible. This makes the crystal easier to wear than glass, because it doesn't add as much weight to your wrist.
Explore Watches at Northeastern Fine Jewelry
Northeastern Fine Jewelry is the Greater Capital area’s preeminent luxury jeweler and timepiece provider. Shop luxury watches at our Albany, Glen Falls, and Schenectady, New York showrooms. Since 1980, we’ve been on a mission to provide our customers with an unmatched selection of luxury timepieces from the most innovative designers, including Breitling, Tissot, Omega, IWC, Cartier, Longines, and Seiko Luxe. Check out our contact page to talk to one of our friendly staff members by calling any one of our New York jewelry stores or sending us an email.
