The watch’s exterior components are highly susceptible to all kinds of damage due to interaction with diverse surfaces and objects. Among all of them, the face is probably the most affected. By saying “face” I refer particularly to the transparent glass that covers the dial providing protection against outside negative factors,
With genuine luxury watches, everything is simple: brands use the best materials for the glass and such watches have an incredibly resistant sapphire crystal. On the other hand, the replica manufacturers don’t always use high-quality materials, replacing the sapphire version with more low-budget materials in order to reduce costs. Given the fact that all of us want a high-quality replica watch, it’s critical to look closer at the watch type of crystal.
Depending on the material, it’s possible to predict how long the replica watch will resist different exterior factors and how great it will keep its clear and transparent look. Therefore, it is not enough to consider the shapes and sizes. Would be great to look deeper.
Perhaps, you will not be surprised knowing that high-quality glasses are more expensive than regular ones. Considering that a sapphire crystal is not easy to obtain and produce, it naturally shifts the overall price of the replica timepiece. This is why replica watches might have dramatic divergencies in price, even though they seem to have the same features and technical constructions.
So, how to choose the right type of crystal for your replica watch? Which is the difference between different types of crystal? And are there any risks when opting for cheaper versions? Scroll down to discover the details of all these confusions.
Sapphire Crystal Option
Generally speaking, replica watches featuring a such type of crystal are the most expensive. Actually, all remarkable watch brands use it to provide spectacular resistance and a great look. Extracting and manufacturing it is a complex process and requires professional aptitudes and special skills. As a matter of fact, the sapphire crystal is not actually a pure glass or pure crystal. It is a kind of material obtained following the crystallization process of aluminum oxide submitted to extremely high temperatures. As a consequence of such a process, the material gets transparent and extremely hard. Further on, experts submit the material to the Mohs scale test to check its hardness. As a general rule, the sapphire crystal rates at 9 out of 10 points, which means that the hardness is comparable to natural sapphire.
The Specific Process of Sapphire Crystal Manufacturing
You already know the general concept: aluminum oxide is exposed to extremely high temperatures. This leads to the gradual crystallization of the material, forming dense masses. The masters then cut them with diamond-coated saws into small disks. Further on, they process the disks by grounding and polishing them, turning them into the transparent crystals we find on the replica watches.
What’s so Expensive About Saphyre Crystals?
The manufacturing process is pretty exigent and laborious. Not only does it imply professional skills and knowledge, but also special technical equipment that is hardly available and pricey. In addition, a huge effort is invested in obtaining shatter and scratch sapphire resistance, which makes the manufacturing process even longer and strenuous. Just imagine, a high-quality sapphire crystal is almost as hard and resistant as a natural diamond. So, to artificially obtain such a material involves a pretty arduous effort.
What About Their Reflection?
Naturally, the sapphire crystal is extremely reflective. If the watch manufacturer doesn’t process it accordingly, it will severely impact the watch’s legibility. To balance the reflective property of the sapphire crystal, watch manufacturers use a special anti-reflective coating, usually known as “AR” in watches’ descriptions.
Some replica dealers might be disrespectful and sell watches without this special coating. You should be prudent every time you intend to buy a replica timepiece and check this particular detail by accurately inspecting the legibility of the watch.
In addition, the following aspect is also important: the place where manufacturers apply the AR coating. To make things right, the AR coating should be applied UNDER the watch sapphire crystal. Simply because the crystal is much more resistant to scratches. In case the coating is applied under it, the face of the watch will become susceptible to scratches since the coating is not as resistant against them. Luxury watch brands follow this rule with no exceptions. As for the replica watches, would be great to have a small chat with the seller regarding this aspect. Always opt for the under-AR coating.
Mineral Glass Option
The quality of the mineral glass is relative, depending on which material you compare it with. If comparing it with sapphire crystal, it is less qualitative. In contrast, it is significantly more appreciated than the acrylic option. So, mineral glass is kind of medium-level option and is much more affordable than sapphire crystal, respectively.
In general terms, this material is acceptable for medium-range replica watches and is pretty-cost effective, especially for customers looking for moderate-priced timepieces. In terms of quality, the sapphire crystal takes the lead, without any doubt. Speaking in numbers, the mineral glass ranks at 5 to 7 points out of 10 on the Mohs scale.
As for the scratch resistance property, it all depends on the quality standards of the manufacturer. Responsible manufacturers will heat the mineral to the highest temperature possible to increase its scratch resistance. In contrast, manufacturers that are not deeply “engaged” in quality, will opt for the easier way and will heat the material at acceptable temperatures. As a result, the mineral crystal will be less resistant to scratches. This explains the difference in the price of replica timepieces featuring a mineral crystal. Their scratch resistance appoints on how well the mineral processing was performed.
Is There Any Chance to Spot the Difference Between the Two types?
Yes, there is. In such a context, it’s mandatory to apply the following techniques when buying a replica watch, instead of only reading why is written in the website watch description. One of the methods is to touch the crystal, literally. The method requires high sensitivity but it works in most cases. So, what’s the point?
The point is that you have to feel how “cool” is the material. Even though the two of them are close enough in their “coolness”, the sapphire crystal will always be some degrees cooler.
In case you have somewhere in your house a forgotten plexiglass watch, it’s time to find it. Place it next to the two watches you are comparing and try to observe the clarity between the three of them. Undoubtedly, the sapphire crystal will provide noticeable clarity in comparison to the rest ones.
In addition, you can use your fingernail to slightly scratch the sapphire. Of course, the dealer will not allow you to perform such a test but you have to check the noise the interaction produces. The mineral version will generate a high-pitched sound.
Trusted dealers will always have their own professional techniques to prove to you that the replica watch features an authentic sapphire crystal. So, in many instances, you will not have to perform self-testing.
What About Their Waterproof Properties?
Well, the watch’s waterproofness is not quite provided by its crystal. In fact, a sequence of processes makes a timepiece waterproof. If speaking about their resistance underwater, or better said- underwater pressure, they are pretty resistant due to their innate hardness. However, the watch’s waterproofness is provided by more complex factors.
Manufacturers attach a special gasket to the crystal disk that works as a sealant to resist water. With the help of a special press tool, the manufacturer integrates the crystal into the case. At this point, the gasket squeezes on the gap between the case rim and the crystal, providing reliable waterproof resistance. Of course, the process involves more specific details but on the whole, it looks like that. By the way, customers should know that these gaskets tend to treat over time. And it’s not only happening with replica timepieces, but with authentic ones as well. So, a regular check-up to the repair shop to replace them once in 2 years (approximately) is always welcome.
And Still: Which One to Opt For?
I always look at things through a quality and high-standard prism. In this context, my vote is always for the sapphire crystal version. Even though it is more expensive, I always look at it as a long-term investment. But It would be unfair if I wouldn’t say that the mineral option does a pretty decent job for the cost it has, providing quite reasonable protective properties. So, the major role here plays the financial possibilities.
You already know the differences between them and their chemical properties. If your priority is to have the best replica watch, then save some money to afford a sapphire crystal. After all, you don’t buy a watch every day so you deserve the best version. If, in contrast, your priority is to own an acceptable timepiece, the mineral glass version will decently serve you and meet your demands.
Best Replica Watches with Sapphire Crystal
If you decided to have a replica watch with a sapphire crystal, I can only congratulate you on your choice. You will not regret it and you’ll see how durable and resistant it is. Bellow, I can recommend you a couple of replica pieces featuring great sapphire crystal, as well as high-quality functioning. I also considered the attractive design so that you enjoy a delightful and eye-catching timepiece, regardless of your style preferences.
Seiko Sapphire Titanium Replica Watch
The blossom of the Seiko brand is simply spectacular. Gradually and consistently, the brand has revolutionized its timepieces, making them become highly appreciated by the audience. Seasoned watches collectors consider Seiko timepieces to add to their collections, along with Rolex and Breitling. In most cases, replica manufacturers use mineral glass for Seiko reproduction. But, the titanium version comes in the highest quality materials, including sapphire glass. The 38mm case looks fantastic on any owner loving the mix between classics and contemporary.
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph Replica Watch
This replica timepiece comes at a slightly more expensive price, but it’s totally justified by the value of the Formula 1 collection. The Tag Heuer replica timepiece is a spectacular option for race-passioned addicts due to the strong racing-inspired spirit it conveys. It comes in a monochromatic tone fitting greatly any type of occasion and environment. Customers who share the same passion for racer watches and car races will find this replica watch phenomenal.
Longines Master Collection Chronograph Automatic Replica Watch
This brand takes pride in almost two centuries of existence, in which it has developed great talent in crafting timepieces. To prove that, just take a look at the Master Collection Chronograph Automatic replica timepiece. The first you will notice will be the fabulous design with strong classic accents and delicate vintage accords. On top of it, the dial is a gorgeous composition of complications including a moon phase display, and a day and month counter display. You look at these spectacular subdials through the impeccably transparent and shiny sapphire glass.
Breitling Avenger Blackbird Replica Watch
The brand designed the Avenger Blackbird to pay tribute to its close affiliation with the racing industry. Replica versions are available in two options: 48mm and 44mm titanium cases. As you can intuit, the Avenger replica timepiece encompasses a powerful charisma to accompany you in any sports and adventurous activities. The unidirectional bezel helps the wearer track time during flight or dive periods. As for the overall design, the overall look is slightly reminiscent of military motifs due to the bold case and specific anthracite strap.
Rolex Datejust 41 Replica Watch
In contrast to the Breitling replica watch, the Datejust 41 comes to show the real beauty of an elegant timepiece. This one is a whole sophisticated philosophy encompassed in a divine watch, embodying the essence of gorgeousness and superiority. The most interesting is that all these qualities are conveyed with extreme simplicity and minimalism. Not only the sapphire crystal is great in this replica watch; everything is great in it.
Omega de Ville Hour Vision Replica Watch
A similarly exquisite replica watch is the Omega De Ville Hour Vision. With this timepiece, we see again that simplicity and minimalism are the key factors in creating phenomenal and sophisticated pieces. The replica watches for this line come in a spectacular variety of dials including bronze, opaline-silver, and expressive brown. It’s hard to resist these colors, especially when they look so fabulous through the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. On top of that, you won’t find regular bracelets in these watches. On the contrary, the high-quality straps come in leather, delighting the customers with diverse options. As a result, the audience can contemplate not only the artistic dials but also the unusual straps. Altogether, the Omega de Vile Hour Vision replica timepiece is a treasure right at the wrist.
Bottom Line
Authentic watches with sapphire crystals cost a fortune. I wish we all have the possibility to afford them someday. Meanwhile, the replica versions can solve our impulsive desire in owning a fabulous timepiece, considering that the replica industry can provide pretty qualitative standards.
As for the watch’s crystal, the sapphire version is highly recommended, whenever the price of the watch doesn’t seem a sacrifice for you. If on the other hand, the affordable price IS your main priority, the mineral glass will serve you pretty loyally. One thing more: whenever you look for cost-effective replica watches be prudent regarding their quality grade and opt for the highest possible.