There are several materials a watch’s crystal can come in. One of, if not, the most popular is sapphire. Sapphire crystal watches are known for their durability and scratch-resistant properties. This crystal is extremely common to see on watches from more luxury and high-end brands.
Throughout this guide, we aim to provide you with information that will help you decide whether you want to choose a sapphire crystal for your watch. We will also recommend some of our current favourite models made with this crystal.
Firstly, what is sapphire glass?
Made from synthetic sapphire, this glass is highly scratch-resistant. Unlike the blue gemstone, commonly used in jewellery, this crystal is transparent. It is also extremely durable, having a rating of 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale (which measures a mineral’s resistance to scratching).
With sapphire glass being so hard it is perfect to use in sports watches. It’s nearly impossible to damage watches made with this crystal. They can only be damaged if something harder than sapphire comes in contact with it. If the crystal does become scratched it cannot be restored. Instead, it must be replaced.
How is it manufactured and does it impact the cost of watches?
Sapphire crystals are made by melting pure aluminium oxide at extremely high temperatures done in a furnace – between 2000℃ and 2200℃. Once the material is heated, cooled and crystallised it is cut into small pieces. A diamond-coated saw typically performs this process. The final result is tiny disks, that once polished and ground, turn into the crystals that are used for watches. Covering the sapphire glass in an anti-reflective coating is essential. This helps to reduce the glare that is originally on the glass.
The manufacturing process of sapphire glass requires large amounts of both money and time. With sapphire being such an expensive glass, the process of making it is expensive too. The cost of sapphire glass depends on the quality of the crystal. Low-quality sapphire is typically cheaper but it won’t adopt the same traits as sapphire with higher quality.
With the cost of the glass itself being so high, sapphire watches are some of the more luxurious watches on the market. This is because it’s one of the hardest materials to work with. The tools required to cut and polish this material are also very costly. These factors certainly impact the price of the watches but the quality of them matches the expensive price tag.
What are the pros and cons of choosing a sapphire crystal watch?
Sapphire crystal is the most scratch-resistant watch glass. This type of glass will bring clarity to the dials. Meaning visibility on a sapphire crystal watch is excellent! They also tend to be longer lasting than watches made of acrylic or mineral glass. Sapphire glass watches are the perfect choice for people who lead an active lifestyle. This is because they are unlikely to experience any damage.
However, some factors of sapphire crystal watches can turn potential buyers away. Being a more expensive watch is the primary reason. But, a further reason is that when exposed to extreme temperatures the glass can become brittle. This makes it susceptible to cracking. They can also be quite heavy on the wrist due to their durability.
So why choose a Sapphire Crystal Watch?
If you are looking to purchase a sleek and sophisticated timepiece then a sapphire crystal watch is the option for you.
This watch glass is not the cheapest option, but it guarantees reliability as well as protection. The strength, durability and scratch resistance of this crystal are unmatched.
We have rounded up some of our favourite sapphire crystal watches to help you find the perfect model to add to your collection.
Our Current Favourite Sapphire Crystal Watches:
Herbelin Art Deco Women’s Gold PVD Watch 17478BP22
This gorgeous women’s Herbelin watch comes from a larger collection of vintage-styled watches. The rectangular shape portrays a neat and sophisticated look. This complements the sapphire glass enclosing the petite dial seamlessly. The classic appearance of this model makes it the ideal choice for those seeking luxury accessories. The scratch-resistant nature of sapphire crystals means this watch will be long-lasting. There’s a possibility it could be passed down through generations and become a sentimental timepiece.
Polar Grit X Pro Premium GPS Outdoor Multisport Training Watch Nordic Copper (M-L) 90085775
Due to their scratch-resistant nature, sapphire glass watches are perfect for those with active lifestyles. Military-grade durability Built with military-grade durability, this Grit X Pro is designed for heavy use and extreme conditions. An eye-catching copper stainless steel bezel surrounds the case which holds the sapphire crystal in place. The display of the watch is protected by sapphire glass and anti-fingerprint coating. A brilliant addition which does not take away from the clarity of the crystal. This model costs more due to its luxurious sporting nature.
Tissot Women’s PR 100 Sport Chic Diamond Set Date Display T1019101103600
The T-Classic collection includes some of Tissot’s most reliable and robust watches. This elegant watch is one of those pieces. A domed sapphire crystal protects the dial of the watch. The indices have been replaced by 12 diamonds. This gives the dial a high-class luxurious look. The classic stainless steel case and bracelet are very on-trend. It provides you the opportunity to wear the watch on numerous occasions and have full creativity in how you style it. A battery-powered quartz movement is enclosed within this 36mm case. This type of movement ensures the watch is reliable.
LONGINES Flagship Héritage Men’s Brown Leather Cream Dial L47954782
This simple Swiss-made timepiece is the perfect addition to any watch collection. The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and an anti-reflective coating. The refined light silver dial is accented by contrasting gold-applied indices. The design stays true to the elegance that the original Flagship collection is known for. The dark brown alligator leather strap guarantees comfort on the wrist. It also highlights the luxurious design whilst adding a splash of vintage flair.
Baume & Mercier Women’s Classima Blue Leather Silver Moonphase Dial M0A10329
This watch differentiates itself from our previous recommendations as it centres around a beautiful silver moon phase dial. A mix of diamond indices and Arabic numeral hour markers give the watch a retro-chic tone. These indices continue to add to the elegance and timeless design of this watch. A gorgeous midnight blue leather strap completes the design of this watch. Making it a staple piece for anyone with a love for astrology.
We hope this short guide has provided you with more purchase decisions about sapphire crystal watches. If there are any other questions we haven’t already answered please let us know in the comments and we will be sure to answer them!
