Name: APOLLO III - Automatic Olive Green Gold w/ Leather Strap
Brand: Argos
SKU: Olive Green Gold w/ Leather Strap
Rating: 4.7 (66 reviews)

Automatic Watches

The Role of Crystal Materials in Watches: Sapphire, Mineral, and Acrylic Compared

By Argos Watches

Well, most of us are concerned with the problems of brand, design, and features. When it all comes down to the function of your watch over time, though, one issue hasn't received quite the attention it deserves, it really plays a rather pivotal role: the crystal. It's the clear plastic that covers your watch dial. Though it may seem like an infinitesimally small part of the whole equation, the material the crystal is made of can make all the difference to durability, aesthetic appeal, and even the cost of your watch.

In this blog, we're going to explore the world of watch crystals and see the differences between the three most common types: sapphire, mineral, and acrylic. By the end of this blog, you will understand how each material can affect your watch-wearing experience and which one is best for your lifestyle.

A Brief History of Watch Crystals: From Practicality to Luxury

Let's step back quickly to see how the evolution of watch crystals began. Even during the early ages of horology, watches had not yet reached the point of protective crystals. No glass, cover, or lid existed over pocket watches in the beginning. Users used them to check the time; otherwise, there was always dirt and dust settling around, threatening potential damage to their delicate interiors.

With the evolution of watchmaking technology, the fragile dials of pocket and wristwatches were protected using crystal materials. The early days were all about glass, but when more durable and scratch-resistant alternatives started gaining demand, acrylic, mineral, and sapphire came into the picture. Now, in this modern era, crystals are no longer just a protective cover—they are part and parcel of the overall design and performance of a watch.

Acrylic Crystals: Old World Charm with Longevity

Acrylic, often known as Hesalite in the watch industry, is the classic material that evokes nostalgia for many watch enthusiasts. If you’ve ever been drawn to the charm of vintage watches, you’ve likely come across acrylic crystals. Although it may seem old-fashioned compared to newer materials, acrylic holds a special place in horology, particularly in watches that carry a sense of history and adventure.

Why Choose Acrylic?

Lightweight and Comfortable: For those who wear watches daily, comfort is a concern. Acrylic is light; it weighs much less than traditional metal.
Impact-Resistant: Acrylic is not scratch-resistant, but it is extremely flexible. It is unlikely to crack or shatter when dropped or subjected to impact. This type of material is used in sports or dive watches.
Easy to Restore: One of the great things about acrylic is that it's polishable. Scratches, which are going to occur with regular wear, can be buffed out with a minimum of fuss. That makes acrylic a sensible choice.

Downsides of Acrylic

Scratch-Prone: Acrylic is more susceptible to scratches compared to materials like sapphire or mineral glass. Regular polishing can help, but the frequent upkeep might not suit everyone.
Less Durable Over Time: Although it resists shattering, acrylic can develop a worn appearance faster due to its softer nature, making it less ideal for long-term durability.
Limited Premium Appeal: Acrylic lacks the high-end look and feel of materials like sapphire, which might make it less appealing for luxury or formal watches.

One of the most famous examples is the Omega Speedmaster, where astronauts wore acrylic crystal watches on the Apollo missions. The harsh conditions of space did not ruin the acrylic crystal, but neither did its non-reflective property make it undesirable for the difficult lighting conditions of a spacewalk. This is only one example in which acrylic holds its own against newer materials in certain use cases.

Who Should Use Acrylic?

Acrylic is perfect for those who enjoy a retro look or who have become attached to this aspect of watch nostalgia. That crystal is happy to be returned to its clarity and lustrous finish again easily. Of course, history-inspired watch enthusiasts or those on a low budget will greatly appreciate the properties of acrylic materials.

Mineral Crystals: The Balanced Choice for Everyday Durability

While acrylic is great for anyone looking for something nostalgic and practical, mineral crystals are in the highest demand by those seeking something that offsets the cost with durability. As tempered silica, they provide tremendous scratch and impact protection. They come up often enough in mid-range priced watches, so they fit well within the affordable range of nearly any watch lover.

Why Mineral?

Affordability: Mineral crystals cost much less than sapphire crystals. Mineral crystal is ideal if you need something a bit rugged yet relatively inexpensive for knocking into things or if the occasional scratch won't send a bill for their repair through the roof.
Scratch Resistance: Mineral crystals are not scratch-resistant like sapphire, but they are stronger than acrylic.
Tough and Durable: Mineral crystals are much less likely to shatter than acrylic but don't have sapphire's toughness. They can withstand at least a bit of wear and tear and are usually coated for added durability.

Downsides of Mineral

Not Fully Scratch-Proof: While tougher than acrylic, mineral crystals can still scratch over time, especially with heavy use. Unlike acrylic, these scratches can't be easily buffed out.
Shatter-Prone: Mineral crystals are more brittle than acrylic, meaning they are more likely to crack or shatter on heavy impact, which may require full replacement.
Limited Longevity: Over time, mineral crystals may lose their clarity or develop small chips, making them less appealing for those seeking a long-term, pristine look.

Who Should Choose Mineral?

Mineral crystals would be the pick for the practical, day-to-day watch wearer who doesn't want a hefty price tag. These are stronger than acrylic, making them ideal for people who only want a reliable, decent, low-priced timepiece that can face the strains of everyday life.

Sapphire Crystals: The Luxury Pick for the Discerning Watch Collector

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Of course, the very best of what watch crystals have to offer are represented in sapphire crystals. These crystals are made of aluminum oxide in its crystallized form, which happens to be the hardest and most scratch-proof material discovered on earth. As it scores a 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire ranks just one point below diamond, which explains why it's so often chosen for luxury watches meant to be used through the centuries.

Why Go for Sapphire?

Durability: None could compare with this crystal if you want something to last long and have no signs of scratches throughout years of usage. The sapphire hardness also makes the material very scratch-resistant, meaning your crystal would stay the same shape it was when you got it years from now.
Clarity and Shine: Sapphire crystals are known for their crystal-clear transparency. They offer superior optical clarity, meaning you’ll get a clean, distortion-free view of your watch’s dial. If you’ve ever owned a luxury watch with a sapphire crystal, you’ve likely noticed how pristine and radiant it looks—this is the magic of sapphire.
Premium Feel: While sapphire crystals do come with a small premium price, that's the bottom line. The quality of the crystal makes it a valuable investment. They are representatives of high-priced watches and luxury. Its prestige is added to any kind of watch.

Downsides of Sapphire

Costly: Sapphire crystals are the most expensive option among watch materials. This can significantly increase the overall price of the watch, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Weight: Sapphire is heavier compared to other crystal types, which might affect the comfort of wearing, especially for those who prefer lightweight watches.

Who Should Choose Sapphire?

Sapphire is ideal for those who are willing to invest in a luxury watch or anyone who prioritizes maximum durability and visual clarity. If you’re someone who wants their timepiece to last for decades with minimal wear and tear, sapphire is the best choice for you. It's also perfect for those who prefer the highest quality craftsmanship in their watches.

Which Crystal Is Right for You?

So, which of the crystal materials should you opt for in your next watch? Here's a simple breakdown to help you decide:

Acrylic: For vintage lovers or anyone who seeks a light, flexible, and inexpensive option that is easily restorable.
Mineral: Perfect for daily wearers looking for something durable, scratch-resistant, and budget-friendly. It gives you a nice balance between strength and cost.
Sapphire: The ultimate choice for those who prioritize long-term durability, scratch resistance, and clarity and are willing to invest in a luxury watch that will stand the test of time.

Conclusion: The Crystal That Defines Your Watch Experience

The crystal on your watch is more than just a cover; it is the distinguishing feature of how you will interact with your timepiece daily. Whether opting for the vintage appearance of acrylic, the affordable durability of mineral, or the premium performance of sapphire, each material provides you with benefits tailored to your lifestyle and preference.

The next time you select a watch, consider how you wear your watch, the kind of activities you will have, and what you are willing to spend in order to maintain the life of your watch. The right crystal makes all the difference because it influences how your watch looks, feels, and ages becoming a beautiful masterpiece.

Experience the perfect balance of formal elegance and everyday utility with Argos Watches. Explore the Apollo 3 collection, designed for any occasion. Visit Argos Watches today to find your ideal timepiece!