When it comes to watch glass types, choosing the right one can make a big difference in durability, clarity, and cost. At Watch Repair Piccadilly, we’re experts in identifying and replacing all common watch glass types and today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know before you choose.
Understanding Watch Glass Types, Mineral, Sapphire, Acrylic.
Mineral Watch Glass
- Durability: Stronger than acrylic but less scratch-resistant than sapphire.
- Cost: Affordable and commonly used in mid-range watches.
- Ideal for: Daily wear with occasional bumps.
- Maintenance: Minor scratches may be buffed; serious chips require replacement.
Sapphire Watch Glass
- Durability: Extremely scratch-resistant and crystal clear.
- Cost: More expensive due to hardness and manufacturing.
- Ideal for: Luxury timepieces and frequent outdoor use.
- Maintenance: Low-maintenance; replacement only for cracks or chips.
Acrylic Watch Glass
- Durability: Most shatter-resistant but scratches easily.
- Cost: Inexpensive and easy to polish.
- Ideal for: Vintage watches or budget-friendly models.
- Maintenance: Simple buffing can remove most scratches.
Which Watch Glass Type Is Right for You?
- For toughness & clarity → sapphire
- For budget & resilience → acrylic
- For reliable mid-level performance → mineral
Whether you invest in a high-end watch or cherish a vintage collectible, understanding watch glass types will help you maintain clarity and longevity.
FAQs About Watch Glass Types
- What is the most scratch-resistant watch glass type?
Sapphire is the hardest and most scratch-resistant of all glass options. - Can mineral glass be polished to remove scratches?
Minor mineral scratches can sometimes be polished out, but deep scratches usually need glass replacement. - Why is acrylic still used if it scratches easily?
Acrylic is lightweight, shatter-resistant, and cost-effective ideal for vintage designs or sports use. - How do I know if my watch has sapphire, mineral, or acrylic glass?
Look up specifications, visit a professional like Watch Repair Piccadilly or use a water-drop test for scratch resistance. - Which glass type is best for an everyday watch?
Mineral strikes a great balance of cost, durability, and scratch resistance for daily wear.
About Me:
My name is Joel Britos and I am a highly respected watch servicing expert with over 25 years of hands-on experience in the fine art of horology. As the lead technician at Watch Repair Piccadilly, I have built a reputation for precision, integrity, and heritage craftsmanship.
Having serviced thousands of timepieces from Rolex and Omega to Cartier and Breitling.I bring an unmatched level of expertise to vintage restorations, movement overhauls, ultrasonic cleaning, and luxury watch diagnostics.
A trusted figure in London’s Piccadilly watch repair community, I am passionate about helping collectors and everyday watch enthusiasts keep their timepieces in peak condition.
📍 Location:
Watch Repair Piccadilly
Inside Piccadilly Circus Underground Station
London W1J 9HP, United Kingdom
📧 Email: info@watchrepairpiccadilly.co.uk
📞 Phone: +44 20 3006 2072
