What is the Difference Between Sapphire Crystals in the MUS Series?
In the MAVEN MUS collection, each sapphire crystal is carefully selected to match the watch’s movement—striking the perfect balance between function and design. Quartz watches use flat sapphire crystals to maintain a clean, minimal silhouette and highlight fine dial details. Automatic watches feature double-domed crystals that enhance the vintage aesthetic while reducing distortion. Solar watches are equipped with single-domed sapphire crystals, designed to improve light absorption and provide a wider viewing angle for optimal legibility. The following article breaks down the differences between these three types of sapphire crystal watch.
What Is Sapphire Crystal Glass?
Sapphire crystal glass is a high-quality synthetic material known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, ranking just below diamond on the Mohs scale. It keeps watch faces clear and durable, providing excellent clarity with minimal distortion. Resistant to impacts and chemicals, it can be crafted into various shapes such as flat or domed crystals. Due to these qualities, sapphire crystal is commonly used in mid- to high-end watches for lasting protection and a refined look.
Comparing the Three Types of Sapphire Crystals in the MUS Collection
Flat Sapphire Crystal Glass
Common in modern watches for practicality and cost-effectiveness.
- Appearance: Completely flat with sharp edges.
- Pros: Clear visibility, high light transmission, excellent scratch resistance.
- Cons: Less impact-resistant; can crack from direct hits.
Double Domed Sapphire Crystal Glass
Popular in retro military and automatic watches for style and durability.
- Appearance: Raised, curved edges with a flat center, forming a double-arched “top hat” profile.
- Pros: Vintage aesthetics with enhanced depth; curved design improves impact resistance.
- Cons: The thicker crystal may slightly reduce legibility when viewed at an angle.
Single Domed Sapphire Crystal Glass
Preferred in watches that emphasize design and aesthetics, such as sports and solar models.
- Appearance: Smooth, continuous curved dome with no flat areas and gently rounded edges.
- Pros: Streamlined design minimizes glare and enhances visual comfort.
- Cons: More complex and costly to manufacture; curvature may cause distortion under strong lighting.
Which Type of Sapphire Crystal Watch Should You Choose?
Each type of sapphire crystal offers distinct advantages. Consider durability, style, and budget when making your decision:
- Durability: Single-domed and double-domed crystals provide superior impact resistance.
- Vintage Style: Double-domed crystals offer a classic, timeless look.
- Clarity and Value: Flat crystals deliver excellent readability at a more affordable price. Domed crystals are best combined with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare.
| Feature | Flat Sapphire Crystal | Double-Domed Sapphire Crystal | Single-Domed Sapphire Crystal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Flat surface with sharp edges | Flat center with raised double-curved edges (“top hat” profile) | Smooth, uniform curved dome |
| Style | Modern, minimalist | Vintage, classic | Sporty, streamlined |
| Scratch Resistance | Highest | Edges slightly less resistant | Curved areas more prone to wear |
| Readability | No distortion | Slight distortion at extreme angles | Possible distortion under strong light |
| Manufacturing Difficulty | Low | Medium | High |
| Price | Most affordable | Mid-range | Highest |
| Suitable For | Dress and minimalist watches | Vintage automatic and classic watches | Sport and solar watches |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, sapphire crystal glass is highly durable and scratch-resistant, making it one of the best materials for watch crystals. It offers excellent clarity and maintains its appearance over time, making it ideal for high-quality and luxury watches.
Sapphire crystal is more expensive than mineral or acrylic glass due to its superior hardness and scratch resistance. The manufacturing process is complex, which adds to the cost, but it provides long-lasting durability and premium aesthetics.
Sapphire crystal is harder and more scratch-resistant than Gorilla Glass, making it superior for watches. However, Gorilla Glass is more impact-resistant and used mainly in smartphones and tablets due to its flexibility and shatter resistance.
Sapphire glass can be brittle and prone to shattering under strong impacts despite its scratch resistance. It is also more expensive and harder to manufacture compared to other materials, which can increase the overall cost of a watch.