Watch Crystal Types Compared

Crystal material choices have gotten complicated with all the options flying around. Here’s what each type offers for protection and appearance.

Mineral Crystal

Affordable and adequate for daily use. Scratches more easily than sapphire. Replacement cost stays reasonable. Found on entry-level watches.

Sapphire Crystal

That’s what makes sapphire endearing to us collectors—second hardest material after diamond. Resists scratches excellently. Shatters rather than scratches under extreme impact. Premium watches feature sapphire.

Acrylic Crystal

Vintage watches often use acrylic. Scratches buff out easily. Warm appearance suits classic aesthetics. Impact resistant but scratch prone.

Coatings and Treatments

AR coating reduces reflections. Hardening treatments improve mineral durability. Double-sided coating works best.