Understanding Mineral Glass vs. Sapphire Glass: What's the Difference?

Understanding Mineral Glass vs. Sapphire Glass: What's the Difference?

When choosing a watch, one important consideration is the type of glass used in the watch face. At Hartley, we prioritize quality and durability, which is why all our watches, including our entry-level quartz models, feature sapphire glass. But what exactly is the difference between mineral glass and sapphire glass?

Mineral Glass:

Mineral glass is a common material used in watchmaking. It is made from a mixture of elements that include silica, soda, and sometimes other minerals. The glass is hardened through a tempering process to increase its scratch resistance. While mineral glass is fairly resilient and offers good scratch resistance, it is not as hard as sapphire glass.

Sapphire Glass:

Sapphire glass is made from crystallized aluminum oxide at very high temperatures. It is transparent and extremely scratch-resistant, ranking just below diamond on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes sapphire glass highly durable and less prone to scratching, even when subjected to everyday wear and tear.

Why Choose Sapphire Glass?

  • Scratch Resistance: Sapphire glass is much harder and more scratch-resistant than mineral glass, ensuring your watch remains pristine over time.

  • Clarity: Sapphire glass is also more optically clear than mineral glass, providing better visibility and a more premium look.

  • Longevity: Due to its hardness, sapphire glass is less likely to scratch, making it an ideal choice for watches that are meant to last.

A special mention: Acryclic Glass

Acrylic, or plastic, watch faces are lightweight and less expensive to produce compared to mineral and sapphire glass. However, they are prone to scratching and can easily become dull over time. Acrylic is not as scratch-resistant as mineral or sapphire glass and requires more frequent polishing to maintain its clarity.

Hartley's Commitment to Quality:

At Hartley, we are committed to using only the best materials in our watches. That's why all our timepieces, from our entry-level quartz watches to our luxury automatics, feature sapphire glass. We believe in offering our customers superior quality and durability, ensuring that your Hartley watch remains a cherished accessory for years to come.

Explore our collection today and experience the difference that sapphire glass makes in watch durability and clarity.