Watch Crystals and Pocket Watch Glass: A Complete Guide to Types, Sizes, and Replacement

When it comes to watch and pocket watch maintenance, one of the most crucial and often overlooked elements is the watch crystal or glass. The crystal not only protects the delicate inner workings of the timepiece but also plays a significant role in its overall aesthetic. Whether you're restoring a vintage pocket watch or upgrading a modern wristwatch, understanding the different types of watch crystals, their costs, and how to source the correct glass is essential.

At Sangamon Watches Repair Center in Springfield Illinois, we specialize in sourcing and installing the perfect watch crystals for all types of timepieces. With our nationwide mail-in service, we make it convenient for you to receive professional crystal replacement and repair, no matter where you're located.

Types of Watch Crystals

There are several types of watch crystals available, each with its unique characteristics and benefits:

Acrylic (Plastic) Crystals: Often used in vintage and budget watches, acrylic is highly durable and inexpensive. While it scratches easily, these scratches can typically be buffed out, making it a long-lasting option. Acrylic is lightweight and offers great clarity.
Mineral Glass Crystals: A step up from acrylic, mineral glass is commonly found in mid-range watches. It is more scratch-resistant than acrylic but can be prone to shattering under significant impact. It offers decent durability at a reasonable price.
Sapphire Crystals: The highest quality material used for modern watch crystals, sapphire is incredibly scratch-resistant and highly durable. It is often found in luxury watches due to its premium quality, although it is also the most expensive option. Sapphire crystals are ideal for those seeking long-term protection and clarity.

Pocket Watch Glass

When it comes to pocket watches, the glass plays a significant role in preserving the intricate details of the dial. Many antique pocket watches use acrylic or mineral glass due to their ease of replacement and cost-effectiveness. Some high-end or rare models, however, may require sapphire glass for restoration to maintain their value.

Sizes and Thickness

Watch crystals come in various sizes and thicknesses to suit different models and styles:

Sizes: The diameter of watch crystals typically ranges from 20mm to over 50mm, depending on whether it's for a wristwatch or a pocket watch. It's important to measure your timepiece accurately to find the correct size.
Thickness: The thickness of a watch crystal varies depending on the type and purpose. For example, sapphire crystals are often thicker (1.0mm - 2.5mm) to offer better protection, while acrylic crystals can be thinner yet still durable.

At Sangamon Watches Repair Center, we have the expertise to source crystals of various sizes and thicknesses, ensuring a perfect fit for your watch, regardless of its make or model.

Cost of Replacement and Services

The cost of replacing a watch crystal largely depends on the type of glass and the complexity of the installation:

Acrylic Crystals: Starting from $30 to $50, these are the most affordable options, especially for pocket watches and vintage pieces.
Mineral Glass Crystals: Typically priced between $50 and $100, mineral glass is a great mid-range option for everyday watches.
Sapphire Crystals: Sapphire replacement can range from $150 to $300 or more, depending on the brand and model of the watch. Due to the delicate process of fitting sapphire crystals, installation costs may also be higher.

At Sangamon Watches, our experienced team will provide a free estimate after assessing the specific needs of your timepiece, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

Nationwide Mail-In Service

Whether you're located in Springfield or across the country, Sangamon Watches offers a convenient nationwide mail-in repair service. Simply contact us for an intake form, send in your watch securely, and our experts will handle the rest. Once the crystal replacement or repair is complete, we’ll ship your watch back safely, fully insured.

Why Choose Sangamon Watches Repair Center?

Expertise in sourcing and installing various types of crystals, including acrylic, mineral, and sapphire.
Nationwide mail-in service for convenient repairs.
Free estimates and competitive pricing for all watch crystal replacement services.
Professional craftsmanship backed by years of experience.

Let Sangamon Watches Repair Center restore your watch or pocket watch to its best condition with the perfect crystal. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate!