Everything You Need to Know About Rolex Watch Glass

Rolex watches are known for their exceptional quality and durability. One of the key components that contribute to this reputation is the watch's crystal or glass. Rolex watches use a special type of crystal known as sapphire crystal, which is known for its strength, clarity, and scratch resistance. In this article, we will explore the different types of Rolex watch crystals, how they are made, and how to care for them.

Types of Rolex Watch Crystals

Rolex offers two types of watch crystals for their timepieces: sapphire crystal and acrylic crystal. Sapphire crystal is the more popular option and is used in most modern Rolex watches. This type of crystal is made from synthetic sapphire, which is created by melting aluminum oxide powder at high temperatures and then allowing it to cool and solidify into a crystalline form. The resulting sapphire crystal is incredibly hard and scratch-resistant, making it an ideal choice for luxury watches.

Acrylic crystal, on the other hand, is a type of plastic that is used in some vintage Rolex watches. This type of crystal is less expensive and less scratch-resistant than sapphire crystal, but it does have some advantages. For example, acrylic crystal is shatter-resistant, which means it is less likely to break if it is dropped or struck.

How Rolex Watch Crystals are Made

The process of making a sapphire crystal for a Rolex watch is complex and involves multiple steps. First, the aluminum oxide powder is melted at extremely high temperatures, typically around 2050 degrees Celsius. The molten material is then allowed to cool and solidify into a cylindrical shape, which is then cut into thin slices called boules. The boules are then sliced again into thin wafers, which are then polished and shaped into the final crystal.

Acrylic crystals, on the other hand, are made through a process called injection molding. A liquid plastic material is injected into a mold and then cooled and hardened into the desired shape.

Caring for Your Rolex Watch Crystal

No matter what type of crystal your Rolex watch has, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure it stays looking its best for years to come. Here are some tips for caring for your Rolex watch crystal:

1. Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures, as this can cause the crystal to crack or shatter.

2. Avoid wearing your watch during activities that could scratch the crystal, such as contact sports or DIY projects.

3. Use a soft cloth to clean your watch crystal regularly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can scratch or damage the crystal.

4. If your watch crystal does become scratched, it can be polished by a professional watchmaker to restore its original appearance.

5. If your watch crystal becomes cracked or damaged, it should be replaced by a professional watchmaker to prevent further damage to the watch.

Conclusion

The crystal or glass of a Rolex watch is an essential component that plays a critical role in the watch's performance and durability. Rolex offers two types of crystals for their watches: sapphire crystal and acrylic crystal. Sapphire crystal is the more popular and scratch-resistant option, while acrylic crystal is less expensive and more shatter-resistant. Regardless of the type of crystal your Rolex watch has, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure it stays looking its best for years to come.

Photo credit : https://teddybaldassarre.com/blogs/watches/sapphire-crystal