Choosing the perfect watch can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a number of options. Watches are an adaptable accessory and with the incredible amount of choice currently available, it is easier than ever to select a watch with the perfect materials for the wearer. The crystal of a watch is the clear piece that protects the dial and so it is integral to both a watches appearance and functionality. Different types of crystal are suitable for different purposes but if you’re looking for a high quality and long-lasting timepiece, sapphire crystal is an excellent choice. Sapphire glass tends to use synthetically made sapphire to ensure the purest, clearest crystal for watches. It is the material used by most high-end brands to give their customers the luxury look and feel that they desire.
How is sapphire crystal manufactured?
In the late 1800s, a French chemist named Auguste Verneuil discovered the process of creating synthetic gemstones. His process is still used today to make the synthetic sapphire found in luxury watches. The process begins with aluminium oxide powder that is then super-heated and placed under incredible amounts of pressure. The product is then heat treated to remove any internal stresses. This stage is vital and ensures there are no weaknesses in the finished sapphire glass. Once the sapphire is manufactured, it is processed into sheets ready to be placed into an exquisite timepiece. Due to its complex production process, sapphire crystal tends to come at a higher cost and so is typically only used by high-end brands.
The process of creating sapphire crystal ensures no flaws or weaknesses in the final product and it will, therefore, last for generations. A timepiece that uses sapphire crystal is likely to be of excellent quality and its longevity will mean it can be passed down for generations and become a family heirloom. It is very unlikely that sapphire glass will deteriorate in any way, so the watch will retain its brand-new look for years to come. However, because the material is so clear, it often needs to be treated with a non-reflective coating to ensure good readability in even the brightest light. Little knocks and bumps are no match for synthetic sapphire as the only material it can be scratched with is a diamond. The only downside to sapphire crystal is that it is not shatterproof. As sapphire is normally only used in luxury models, it is unlikely that it would be worn in a situation where this would be a problem.
Sapphire crystal is by far the strongest option for a watch glass due to its scratch resistance and complex production process. If you are in the market for a long-lasting, high quality timepiece, here are some recommendations on the top 5 sapphire crystal watches 2021.
Hamilton Intra-Matic Mesh Auto Chrono American Classic
As is expected from a watch of this quality, this watch features a sapphire crystal to ensure strength and scratch resistance. The stainless-steel case and bracelet give the accessory a clean and simple look and the shine is certainly eye-catching. A folding clasp will give the wearer peace of mind that their watch is secure on their wrist. The contrast between the white dial and black chronographs is striking and increases the readability of the dial.
The watch is powered by an automatic chronograph movement, giving the piece a 60-hour power reserve so the wearer never has to worry about replacing a battery. The dial also features a date aperture at the six o’clock point and the piece is water resistant to 10bar, making this the perfect piece for all occasions.
Longines Spirit Automatic Blue Dial Stainless Steel 40mm
This watch will certainly stand out with its blue dial but is still easy to style thanks to its classic stainless-steel bracelet. The sapphire crystal has been treated with an anti-reflective treatment, making it easy to read in all lights. This readability is aided by the luminescent hands and indices. The most impressive features of this watch are the ones found behind the dial. It is a COSC certified chronometer, so the quality and craftsmanship behind the watch are certainly of a very high standard.
The movement makes use of a monocrystalline silicon balance spring, so the workings of the watch cannot be compromised by magnetic fields. This model will always work flawlessly due to the automatic movement with a 64-hour power reserve. The design is a nod to the early days of aviation, making it an excellent choice for aviation and watch enthusiasts alike.
Alsta Nautoscaph Superautomatic 50th Anniversary “Gilt” Limited Edition 100 pcs
Alsta has launched only 100 pieces of this design as a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the brand, making it an extra special collector’s piece. It celebrates the brand’s history of creating diver’s watches in the most decadent way possible. Every effort has been made to make this watch attention grabbing.
The patterned bracelet, black dial with sapphire crystal, gilt hands and gold detailing on the bezel all work in harmony to build a luxury appearance. However, this watch is not all style and no substance. The movement is also of very high quality. With an automatic movement of the calibre Sellita SW200, it is precise and trustworthy. This watch will last for decades with its timeless, limited edition design.
RADO Men’s Ceramic True Plasma Grey Quartz
The simplicity of this watch is what makes it attractive. The simple, clean face makes the watch easy to read and the gold indices complement the white dial. The pale dial is framed by the high-tech ceramic case and bracelet that RADO is famous for. The deep shade of grey provides a pleasant juxtaposition to the pale dial, giving the piece a classic look. This sapphire crystal model is more budget friendly than some as it is Quartz powered.
This is a more affordable and easily replaceable way of powering the movement. A small date aperture at the three o’clock point adds extra detail to the dial without interrupting the clean appearance. The sapphire crystal, clasp fastening, and 50-meter water resistance mean that this watch can be worn without worry of scratches, loss or water damage in day-to-day life.
Seiko Prospex PADI Special Edition “Sumo” Chronograph
Seiko is the only global watch brand to design a watch with the bright, official colours of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. The red and blue bezel of this timepiece is eye-catching and make it a great model for collectors of watches or diving paraphernalia. This watch is designed for diving and other water activities with its 20-bar water resistance and screw case back and crown.
Perfect for an active lifestyle, the watch uses a solar powered quartz movement. Every detail of this accessory has been precisely curated for diving. Lumibrite indices make the dial readable underwater and a clasp with a secure lock ensure that the watch will not come unfastened mid-dive. The chronographs give the watch further utility with a stopwatch, a 24-hour hand and solar power level gauge. The care that has gone into the design of this watch, alongside the sapphire crystal, makes it a long lasting, sturdy and collectable piece.
What are your thoughts on our top 5 sapphire crystal watches of 2021? Let us know in the comments below!
