CRYSTAL CLEAR

In this instalment of our regular buying guide, we explore the considerations for watch crystals, overlooked at times but nevertheless one of the most crucial components of a watch

- ASAPH LOW

Amidst the festive feastings at the end of 2021, we put out a decorated dial buying guide that felt appropriate for the season; Yuletide decors paired with ornate(ish) watch dials. Subtracting the glitz and glamour, this next instalment pales in comparison as we highlight the watch dial’s brother-in-arms — the watch crystal. Note that the reason we use that term is that one of the main purposes of the dial is to protect the movement from damages coming from the front; the crystal has a similar task, only that it provides an additional layer of security by protecting the dial too. Think of it as transparent armour. While the considerations for watch crystals are fairly straightforward, their importance cannot be understated as they form one of the most crucial components of a watch to ensure dust and water-resistance - of course they also allow wristwatches to be functionally useful, but that should go without saying (perhaps H. Moser & Cie would like to troll us by making a watch without a crystal - Ed).

Now, watch crystals are frequently ignored as a subject because we literally spend our time looking right through them. But, when your watch meets a hard surface, it is probably the crystal that takes the brunt of the blow. It also has the potential to change how the whole watch looks and even feels. As such, this guide will come in handy for new watch buyers though it can be a good refresher for seasoned collectors too.

THREE AMIGOS