Understand the different types of watch glasses.

Welcome to the PSB WATCHES blog, your dedicated guide to the captivating and complex world of watches. Our mission is to enlighten you on the subtleties and wonders of watchmaking, an art where every component counts and above all, to help you choose the ideal watch that suits you perfectly.

Today, we turn our attention to an often underestimated but essential aspect: the watch glass. This component, which protects the face of your watch, is much more than a simple shield against external elements; it is one of the components most exposed to everyday shocks and hazards.

In this article, we will look at the different types of glass - from acrylic to the prestigious sapphire glass - and reveal their secrets. Whether you're a watch enthusiast, a discerning collector, or simply looking for your next watch, understanding what's behind the glass of your watch can transform your experience and appreciation of it.

1. Acrylic Glass: Entry Level

Acrylic glass, often used in budget watches , is a type of transparent, lightweight plastic, often known as Plexiglas , Lucite , or Perspex . It is appreciated for its lightness and its resistance to shocks but it is generally the most prone to scratches.

It is particularly appreciated in vintage watches and models focused on value for money but also for its ease of restoration: scratches on acrylic glass can be relatively easily polished and removed. With special polishing products, scratched acrylic glass can often be restored to a new appearance, an option that is not possible with mineral or sapphire lenses.

Brands like Timex often use this type of glass in their classic models, providing an affordable option without compromising functionality.

Example : the Omega Speedmaster Professional watches, used by astronauts during the Apollo missions, were equipped with a Hesalite glass which is an acrylic glass.

2. Mineral Glass: The Compromise

Mineral glass is produced by treating ordinary glass with heat or chemical treatments to improve its strength. This process makes the glass harder and therefore more resistant.

A natural evolution, mineral glass is a step above acrylic. More resistant to scratches while remaining economical, it is a popular choice for mid-range watches. It offers an interesting compromise between durability and cost, positioning itself between acrylic glass and sapphire glass in terms of quality and price.

Example : Many models from the Casio G-Shock , Citizen Eco-Drive or Promaster ranges use mineral lenses.

3. Hardlex: The Seiko Signature

Hardlex glass is a specific creation of the Seiko brand, representing a notable improvement over standard mineral glass. Developed in-house by Seiko, Hardlex stands out for its greater resistance to scratches and impacts. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for watches intended for use in difficult conditions, such as diving watches or sports watches.

Seiko's Hardlex glass represents a successful balance between quality and cost, offering increased strength without the premium price of sapphire, while outperforming standard mineral glass in terms of durability and impact resistance.

Example : Seiko's Hardlex glass is mainly used in their Prospex, Presage, Seiko 5 and Seiko 5 Sports ranges.

4. Sapphire Glass: The Pinnacle of Quality

Sapphire crystal, popular in high-end watches, is famous for its exceptional scratch resistance, almost equivalent to that of diamond, making it virtually immune to everyday scratches. Its remarkable transparency ensures perfect clarity for reading the time, often improved by anti-reflective treatments.

Although it is more expensive to produce, sapphire crystal is a preferred choice for luxury watches, emphasizing a commitment to quality and elegance. Its durability is a major asset, although it is slightly more fragile to violent impacts compared to other types of glass. This combination of clarity, resistance and aesthetics makes it an item of choice for those who prioritize finesse and longevity in their watches.

With certain brands like Seiko , the same series may present models with sapphire crystals and others without, in order to bring a touch of luxury to certain variants. The SRPH49K1 is equipped with it while the SRPH93J1 or SRPH87K1 is equipped with Hardlex glass.

Example : Rolex , Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet , known for their exquisite craftsmanship, choose sapphire crystal for the majority of their watches

Conclusion

In conclusion, the watch glass is an element that deserves our full attention. From affordable yet practical acrylic to durable and luxurious sapphire, each type has its place in the world of watches. At PSB WATCHES, we highlight this diversity and are committed to offering you a range of choices that meets not only your functional needs but also your aesthetic tastes. Whether your next watch is an investment or a favorite, you will undoubtedly find your ideal one on our site.

Casio LTP-V007L-7B1 with mineral glass, which equips the entire LTP-V007 series.