What to Do After Breaking the Glass on Your Watch?
The glass on a watch not only protects the mechanism but also enhances its elegant appearance. Manufacturers often add an anti-reflective coating to improve clarity. However, regardless of the model – whether it’s a men’s or women’s watch – the glass can be fragile. Even with careful use, accidents can happen. So, what should you do if your watch glass breaks? Will the watch remain functional after repairs?
Types of Watch Glass and Their Durability
There are three main types of watch glass:
- Mineral glass
- Acrylic glass (hesalite)
- Sapphire glass
Each type has varying levels of scratch and impact resistance. Expensive watches often come with higher-quality glass for enhanced durability.
-
Sapphire Glass
Known for its scratch resistance, sapphire glass is considered one of the best options. However, its lack of flexibility makes it prone to shattering upon impact. -
Mineral Glass
A common choice in many watch models, mineral glass is less scratch-resistant but offers better flexibility than sapphire glass, reducing the risk of complete breakage. -
Acrylic Glass (Hesalite)
Made from synthetic materials, acrylic glass is highly flexible and resistant to shattering. However, it is prone to scratches. The advantage? Scratches can be polished out easily.
What to Do When Your Watch Glass Breaks?
If the glass on your watch breaks, follow these steps:
- Remove the watch from your wrist immediately to prevent further damage to the dial, hands, or mechanism.
- Visit an authorized repair service, especially for water-resistant watches, to ensure proper sealing after the glass is replaced.
Depending on the complexity of the watch model, replacing the glass can vary in difficulty. For water-resistant models, it’s essential to replace the seals during the repair to maintain water resistance.
Can You Replace the Glass Yourself?
If your watch glass is broken but there’s no visible damage to the dial or mechanism, you can replace the glass yourself. However, for premium or complex watches, professional repair is highly recommended.
Can You Upgrade the Glass Type?
If you own a watch with less durable glass and wish to upgrade, it is possible to replace it with a stronger option, such as sapphire glass. Keep in mind that not all glass shapes and sizes are interchangeable, especially for uniquely designed models.
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