The Types of Watch Crystals and Their Distinct Features

We all know that watches come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and materials, but what about the watch crystal? What is it, and how do these types affect the overall look and feel of the watch? Watch crystals are made of a variety of materials and come in a range of shapes and sizes. 

In this blog section, we will discuss three types of watch crystals and their distinct features so you can choose easily when you decide to replace watch face glass.

Top 3 Types of Watch Crystals

1. Mineral Crystal

This type of crystal is made of a synthetic material called sapphire. It is scratch-resistant and can last for years without showing any wear. It is also very clear, making it ideal for displaying the time on a watch. Additionally, mineral crystals are inexpensive, making them an excellent option for budget-minded shoppers.

2. Acrylic Crystal

This type of crystal is made of a soft, pliable, shatter-resistant material that is great for everyday wear. It will not scratch or break easily, but it can be easily replaced if it does. Because of its flexibility, it is often used as a protective layer over a mineral crystal, making it an excellent choice for watches that get a lot of wear and tear.

3. Sapphire Crystal

This type of crystal is made of a complex, durable mineral that is scratch-resistant and virtually indestructible. It is the most expensive type of watch crystal, but the added protection it provides makes it well worth the cost. Additionally, sapphire crystals are incredibly clear, making them perfect for displaying the time on a watch.

Each type of watch crystal has distinct features that make it rise from the rest. Mineral crystals are inexpensive and scratch-resistant, acrylic crystals are flexible and shatter-resistant, and sapphire crystals are incredibly durable and precise. 

No matter which type of watch crystal you choose, you can be sure it will provide the necessary protection and style to make your timepiece last for years.

Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Watch Crystals

When choosing the right type of watch crystal, there are several factors to consider. Here we will look at tips for choosing the right watch crystal to replace watch face glass.

1. Hardness

The hardness of the crystal is measured in terms of the Mohs scale of hardness. The higher the figure, the more complex the crystal will be. The most common types of watch crystals are sapphire, mineral and acrylic. Sapphire is the hardest, followed by mineral and acrylic, respectively.

2. Shape

The form of the watch crystal affects both the aesthetics of the watch and its functionality. Round and oval-shaped crystals are the most common. However, there are other shapes like rectangular, square, tonneau and cushion-shaped crystals.

3. Thickness

The crystal’s thickness depends on the watch’s style and intended use. Thinner crystals are usually used for dress watches, while thicker crystals are more suitable for sports watches.

4. Size

The size of the crystal affects the visibility of the watch dial. A larger crystal provides a better view of the dial.

5. Clarity 

The clarity of the crystal affects the readability of the dial. The higher the clarity, the easier it is to read the dial.

Conclusion

Watch crystals are an essential component of any watch as they protect the face of the watch and provide clarity for the user to read the time easily. There are three fundamental types of watch crystals available: mineral crystal, sapphire crystal, and acrylic crystal. Each class has distinct features that set them apart from one another and are better suited for certain types of watches.

SeikoMods specialises in designing and manufacturing Sapphire Crystals and custom parts for Seiko watches. We have a lengthy history of providing top-quality products and are dedicated to providing the best service and customer satisfaction. If you seek a reliable supplier of custom parts for your Seiko watch, SeikoMods is the right company to reach out to. Contact us today and let us help you to replace watch face glass.