Your watch crystal is more than just a cover, it's the window into the soul of your timepiece, framing every movement.
When that window becomes clouded or cracked, it’s time to restore the clarity that keeps your watch ticking beautifully. Whether it's a small scratch or a noticeable crack, a damaged crystal can lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.
Knowing when, why, how and where to replace your watch crystal is key to keeping your watch’s clarity and value.
Let’s look at everything you need to know about watch crystal replacement—what it’s made of, how to spot signs that it’s time for a change, and why it matters to your watch’s longevity.
What is the watch crystal: what material is it made of?
The watch crystal (also known as the watch glass) is the transparent cover that sits over the dial, protecting it from dust, debris, moisture and everyday wear.
The term "crystal," or even “glass” is actually a misnomer; this part of your watch can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own level of durability and scratch resistance.
Let’s quickly look at the possible materials for a watch crystal.
Watch crystal can be made of acrylic (plastic). This is common in vintage or lower-cost watches as acrylic crystals are lightweight and affordable. They're prone to scratches, but they can be polished easily.
Mineral glass is another commonly-found material in watch crystals. Found in many mid-range watches, mineral glass is more scratch-resistant than acrylic, but not as durable as sapphire. It’s an affordable option that offers a good balance between cost and durability.
High-end watch crystals can be made of sapphire crystal. The top-tier material, sapphire crystal is almost completely scratch-resistant and extremely durable. Found in higher-end watches, sapphire crystals can handle daily wear and tear, but may be more prone to shattering upon a strong impact.
Knowing what kind of crystal your watch has can help you understand how to care for it and when it might be time to consider a replacement.
When should you replace your watch glass or watch crystal?
Knowing when to replace your watch crystal can help keep your timepiece in great shape and avoid bigger issues down the line. Here are some signs that might mean it’s time for a crystal replacement—though it’s always a good idea to have a professional check it out to be sure:
1. Deep scratches or cracks on your watch glass. While minor scratches can often be polished out, especially in acrylic and some types of mineral glass, deep scratches or any cracks can compromise the integrity of the crystal. This damage may expose the watch dial and internal components to dust and moisture, which can compromise the watch’s integrity.
2. Fogginess or condensation on your watch crystal. If you notice fogging that doesn’t go away or recurrent condensation under the crystal on cool days, it might be a sign that the water-resistance seal is compromised. Water can enter through various points in the watch, so condensation typically suggests that a full servicing is needed rather than just a crystal replacement.
3. Chipped edges on watch glass. Especially in cases with a bezel-less design where the crystal extends to the edge of the watch, chipping can occur with hard impact. Chips not only detract from the watch's appearance and feel, but can also lead to bigger cracks forming over time.
4. Difficulty reading the dial. If the clarity of the crystal has diminished to the point where reading the time becomes a strain; perhaps due to numerous light scratches or a cloudy appearance, it is an indication that replacing the crystal could enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your watch.
When examining these signs, use a magnifying glass or loupe for a closer inspection, as some forms of damage may not be visible to the naked eye. Routine maintenance and checks will help ensure that your watch remains both functional and beautiful, protecting your investment in the long run.
For the best results, we advise replacing the crystal only after a professional diagnosis and as part of a comprehensive service. If impact damage has cracked the crystal, it’s likely that the watch’s internal parts have been affected as well, and an overhaul is necessary to ensure any potential glass shards are removed and the movement remains unaffected.
Why It’s Worth Trusting Reputable Experts for Watch Crystal Replacement
Replacing a watch crystal isn’t just about restoring its look—it’s also about preventing potential damage to the watch’s inner workings. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive issues, like moisture seeping in and causing rust or other problems with the internal mechanisms. That’s why it’s so important to have this fix handled by skilled professionals. Here’s why choosing a reputable watchmaker, like us at The Watch Specialist’s Clinic, makes all the difference.
1. Expect precision and expertise. Watch crystal replacement requires a high degree of precision. A reputable specialist has experienced technicians who can handle the delicate process of removing the damaged crystal without harming the dial, hands, or other components. They also ensure the replacement glass fits perfectly, maintaining the watch’s original design and function.
2. Proper seals and water resistance. Ensuring the seal is airtight to preserve the watch’s water resistance is critical. An unskilled technician may not be able to reseal the watch correctly, leaving it vulnerable to moisture damage, which can lead to rusting, corrosion, or damage to internal components.
3. Maintaining authenticity and value.Reputable professionals use high-quality, compatible materials that match the original piece, preserving the authenticity of your timepiece. An unskilled replacement might use substandard or incorrect parts, potentially lowering the watch’s value and lifespan.
4. Potential for further damage. In inexperienced hands, crystal replacement can lead to accidental damage to the watch's dial, hands, or movement. A small slip during removal or improper fitting of the new crystal can cause scratches, misalignment, or even worse, mechanical damage that could cost much more to fix.
Never leave such a crucial repair to chance. Trust experts (like us!) for peace of mind.
The process behind replacing damaged watch glass or watch crystal.
Here’s what to expect when you bring your watch to a professional for watch glass replacement.
Inspection and diagnosis: the watch specialist will first inspect your timepiece to determine the extent of the damage to the crystal and whether it has affected the watch's internal components.
Careful removal of the old crystal or glass: the damaged crystal is carefully removed, ensuring that the hands, dial, and movement of the watch are not harmed in the process.
Fitting the new crystal: The replacement crystal is selected based on your watch model and fitted securely into place. A proper fit is crucial to maintaining the watch’s design and performance.
Water resistance testing: once the new crystal is in place, the watch is resealed to ensure it retains its water resistance, keeping dust and moisture out.
Keep your watch in top condition—have your crystal checked by professionals!
Stop by for a free diagnosis and check-up! Our Swiss-trained experts will inspect your watch and offer professional advice, ensuring that you make the best decision to protect your timepiece for years to come. Drop us a line below to make an appointment!
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