The crystal is the transparent covering over the dial of the watch. These days it is most often glass but could also be either plastic, or synthetic sapphire. In vintage watches the crystal is usually plastic.
The majority of watches we see have round flat glass crystals, which are either pressed into a plastic sealing ring, or are attached directly to the metal of the case with epoxy cement. Many manufacturers refer to the glass as "Mineral Glass". While this sounds exotic, it's still glass. It will break and/or scratch if mistreated.
Round glass crystals, while they are most often flat, may also be domed. Both flat and domed crystals are available in different thicknesses. The most common ones are 1 mm thick, but diver's watch crystals are usually 1.5 mm to 2 mm thick and in rare instances as thick as 3 mm.
Synthetic sapphire crystals are often fitted to expensive watches. Sapphire is much more resistant to breaking and most especially resistant to scratching. Round sapphire crystals are available in most of the same sizes as glass crystals and can be fitted as aftermarket upgrades.
Round flat glass crystals, 1 mm thick, can be fitted for $45.00. Thicker crystals and domed crystals are a few dollars higher. Round sapphire crystals vary in price depending on size and thickness. The cost of fitting a round sapphire crystal to most men's watches would be $65.00.
Plastic crystals are mostly found on vintage watches and cost a bit more than modern flat glass. The average plastic crystal would be $55.00.
New crystals can be fitted to almost any watch. However some of the fancy shapes (any thing other than round is considered "fancy") may have to be custom cut. The cost for this is $60.00 and up.
Replacing a crystal is considered a partial repair. The warranty on any partial repair extends only to the parts which have been replaced.
Quoted prices do not include return delivery Click here for shipping information.