Mineral glass watch

Think about that for a second. This is regular glass that’s been heat-treated to make it harder. It’s created by heating standard glass and treating it with chemicals to increase its strength and scratch resistance. Sapphire Watch Crystal

• Material: Synthetic sapphire (lab-grown)
• Production Process: Synthetic sapphire is created by melting aluminum oxide at high temperatures (over 2000°C) using the Verneuil process.

  SNK789, for example, is ideal if you’re horologically curious but on a budget. Have you had particularly good or bad experiences with any of them? Learn more about the differences in movements in Mechanical vs. Press gently down on the crystal to secure it into the case. It's more than just a window—it’s your first line of defense against scratches, shattering, and daily wear.

  Different materials offer varying levels of scratch resistance, clarity, weight, and cost.

  On modern pieces, it’s more of a budget-friendly compromise.

  Final Thoughts

  Watch glass may not be the flashiest part of your timepiece, but it plays a key role in its lifespan, appearance, and comfort. The right crystal can make the difference between a watch that stays pristine for years and one that quickly becomes a scratched mess.

  Whether you’re evaluating an existing watch or shopping for a new one, understanding the three main crystal types—sapphire, mineral, and acrylic—will help you make informed decisions about value, durability, and maintenance.

  Whether you're restoring a vintage pocket watch or upgrading a modern wristwatch, understanding the different types of watch crystals, their costs, and how to source the correct glass is essential.

  At Sangamon Watches Repair Center in Springfield Illinois, we specialize in sourcing and installing the perfect watch crystals for all types of timepieces.

  Since they’re the standard glass type, they were prone to shattering and damaging the dial and movement. A mineral-protected mechanical like this will be cheaper than a sapphire-protected one. 

  Watch out for some brands using a sapphire coating on their mineral crystals. Which is best?

  In this article, we’ll examine and compare different watch glass types.

  Due to the delicate process of fitting sapphire crystals, installation costs may also be higher.

At Sangamon Watches, our experienced team will provide a free estimate after assessing the specific needs of your timepiece, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

Nationwide Mail-In Service

Whether you're located in Springfield or across the country, Sangamon Watches offers a convenient nationwide mail-in repair service.

However, a five-minute session with polyWatch would restore it to clarity. In fact, manufacturers can only cut sapphire using diamond-coated saws. For more on watch styles, see The Ultimate Guide to Watch Types: Dress, Sport, Diver, and More.

Additionally, the choice of watch mechanism can influence the glass type, as certain movements may require different design considerations for optimal protection and performance.

Maybe you want to upgrade to sapphire or replace a broken glass. Whether you're buying your first timepiece or adding to a growing collection, understanding the different types of watch glass can help you make a smarter decision.

In this guide, we’ll break down all the common (and a few not-so-common) types of watch glass, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide which one is best for your needs.

What Is Watch Glass (Crystal)?

The term "watch glass" or "crystal" refers to the transparent cover that protects the watch dial and hands.

Many high-end sapphire crystals include anti-reflective coating (AR coating) to reduce glare and enhance readability.

Prestige Factor Sapphire has become synonymous with luxury watches. Watch movement type, style, and budget are all important factors to consider. You’d need something like diamond, tungsten carbide, or certain ceramics to scratch it.

It is more scratch-resistant than acrylic but can be prone to shattering under significant impact.