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Old 5 November 2011, 08:51 AM   #18
jmacjeweler
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: McMinnville, OR
Posts: 1
Hi all,

As a jeweler, I can tell you that, in theory, very little should be able to scratch a true sapphire crystal. What's more is that sapphire is possessed of a certain toughness with which even diamond cannot compare. I imagine that's why corundum (sapphire) is used for watch crystals in the first place.

There are variables to consider in everyday life, of course. If you strike a sapphire with a hammer, given sufficient force, it will crack or shatter. The iron in the hammer is no where near as hard as corundum, but every natural material obviously has exploitable limits, otherwise we wouldn't even be able to utilize sapphire, tungsten, diamond, or ceramic for the things we do. Nothing is indestructible. What you're buying in a sapphire crystal is a greater degree of crack/shatter/scratch resistance to which other watch crystal materials cannot compare.

In reality, there are FEW things that CANNOT damage your sapphire crystal given the correct circumstances. But if it were so easy that everyone could do it, the price upgrade for a sapphire crystal would be futile. Sapphire crystals offer a much greater resistance to everyday wear and tear. They are not impervious and shouldn't be thought to be so; it's not fair, since nothing meets that criterion. But don't be afraid that the world around you is out to get your watch. Sapphire is a resilient, durable, robust material, and you were wise to go that route. But like any fine jewelry, there are just certain steps to be taken in caring for a Rolex. That's not to say anyone's incompetent; stuff happens.

Hope that helps. -J
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