Before polishing
Use a polishing product only after the crystal has been positively identified as a compatible acrylic and the model's care instructions permit it. Do not apply abrasive polish to sapphire, mineral glass, coatings, or an unidentified crystal; if the material, finish, or scratch depth is uncertain, request professional assessment.
Few things are as frustrating as catching your wrist on a door frame and looking down to see a jagged line across your timepiece. It’s the "cracked windshield" of the watch world.
But before you panic, take a breath. Depending on the material and the depth of the damage, your watch might just need a little spa day—or a full transplant. Here is how to decide whether to repair or replace.
1. Identify Your Crystal Type
Not all watch "glass" is created equal. Knowing what you’re looking at is 90% of the battle.
Material | Scratch Resistance | Can it be Polished? | Replacement Cost |
Acrylic (Hesalite/Plastic) | Low (Scratches easily) | Yes, very easily. | Low ($30–$60) |
Mineral Glass | Medium | Hardly (Not worth the effort). | Moderate ($50–$100) |
Sapphire Crystal | High (Hardest to scratch) | Professional assessment; polishing is generally unsuitable. | High ($100–$250+) |
2. When to Repair (Polish)
Repairing is essentially the process of "sanding down" the surface until it’s level with the bottom of the scratch.
Best for: Acrylic/Plastic Crystals
If you own a vintage Omega Speedmaster or a classic Swatch, you likely have an acrylic crystal. These are soft and prone to scuffing, but they are a dream to repair.
- The Pro Fix: A jeweler can use a buffing wheel for deeper gouges.
Can you polish Mineral Glass?
Technically, yes, using diamond paste. However, it is labor-intensive and often leaves the surface uneven or "wavy." Most watchmakers will suggest a replacement instead.
3. When to Replace
Sometimes, a "band-aid" won't cut it. Replacement is the only path forward if:
- Sapphire or an unidentified hard crystal: Do not assume replacement solely from the material label; professional inspection should assess the damage, coatings, geometry, sealing surfaces, and available parts.
- It’s Cracked or Chipped: If the crystal is actually cracked, its structural integrity is gone. Even a tiny "star" crack can compromise water resistance, leading to moisture inside the movement—which is a much more expensive repair.
- The Shatter Risk: If a crystal shatters, keep the watch still and protected, do not operate the crown or pushers or open the case, and arrange prompt professional assessment so fragments cannot move further.
Summary: The Quick Verdict
Scratched mineral glass? Have the material, damage, coatings, geometry, and available replacement assessed.
Scratched or cracked sapphire? Avoid owner polishing and request professional assessment to determine the protective next step.
Representative Repair Cases
Explore selected repairs from the Gray & Sons archive. A watch is evaluated individually, so the work required for another timepiece may differ.
Related Watch Repair Guides
Request a Watch Repair Evaluation
A repair request begins with an individual inspection and estimate. Send your watch securely or visit Gray & Sons in Surfside, Florida, to discuss the next step.