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springolators · 23 April 2012, 09:05 PM

I have read a bit on this forum, and noticed that a lot of people are not so into sapphire crystals on their watches.

Are there any good points to these? Do they possibly last longer? Show less scratches? Am I mistaken or do all new rolex come with sapphire crystals now?

I would also like to know more about how rolex stay waterproof? Some people on the forum say that if I get an after market bezel it will no longer be waterproof? Does this mean that if you remove the bezel from any rolex it will no longer be waterproof?

I do not plan to go swimming with the watch, but what if I get caught in the rain?

dddrees · 23 April 2012, 09:33 PM

The sapphire crystal is an extremely hard substance and although it's not entirely impossible to scratch it is extremely hard to scratch them unlike the plastic crytals they used to use. Sapphire can shatter if dropped at the right angle, but anything can break if dropped at the right angle.

Rolex started introducing the sapphire crystal in the seventies and by the late 80's to very early 90's they no longer use the plastic crystal on any of their watches. These crystals were a lot easier to scratch, but it was possible to remove light scratches with a bit of polywatch and elbow grease.

Adam K. · 24 April 2012, 08:05 PM

As I understand it, the acrylic crystal is pressed into place by the bezel and actually serves the purpose of keeping water out, even though there is no separate gasket beneath it; e.g. the edge of the acrylic crystal pressure set into place keeps moisture from entering through that section of the case---this is why sapphire crystal replacements (which are inflexible, unlike acrylic/plexi) don't work and fail to provide the pressure-proof seal that is so important.

Modern sapphire crystal Rolex models, on the other hand, have a separate gasket (made of Delrin, I believe) which achieves the purpose of keeping moisture from entering. These can shrink and wear over time and UV/heat exposure, and of course should be replaced when needed to keep the watch pressure-proof. With the acrylic crystals, stress cracks can form at the base of the crystal itself due to a strong pressure (severe impact etc) or just dry out over time and begin crazing...which is why on vintage models, the acrylic crystal is typically replaced as a matter of course during a servicing.

Models engineered for the sapphire crystal can use the same crystal indefinitely (assuming its in good shape), as sapphire's properties stay consistent unlike plexi and it is the gasket below which keeps moisture out of these modern references. Slightly different means to achieve the same objective, you can see. But, the disprepancy means acrylic-equipped vintages can't be simply "updated" with a sapphire crystal of any sort...at least if one desires their classic Rolex to retain its water resistant qualities.

Hopefully, this explanation makes sense!

springolators · 25 April 2012, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Adam K.

Hopefully, this explanation makes sense!

Great explanation, just what I wanted.

Thank you.

Adam K. · 25 April 2012, 08:44 AM

Most welcome!

ayres · 25 April 2012, 07:03 PM

and just to add to the discussion, i had a 1680 recently overhauled and included a new acrylic crystal... i've been swimming with it plenty of times. works like a charm.

dddrees · 25 April 2012, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Adam K.

As I understand it, the acrylic crystal is pressed into place by the bezel and actually serves the purpose of keeping water out, even though there is no separate gasket beneath it; e.g. the edge of the acrylic crystal pressure set into place keeps moisture from entering through that section of the case---this is why sapphire crystal replacements (which are inflexible, unlike acrylic/plexi) don't work and fail to provide the pressure-proof seal that is so important.

Modern sapphire crystal Rolex models, on the other hand, have a separate gasket (made of Delrin, I believe) which achieves the purpose of keeping moisture from entering. These can shrink and wear over time and UV/heat exposure, and of course should be replaced when needed to keep the watch pressure-proof. With the acrylic crystals, stress cracks can form at the base of the crystal itself due to a strong pressure (severe impact etc) or just dry out over time and begin crazing...which is why on vintage models, the acrylic crystal is typically replaced as a matter of course during a servicing.

Models engineered for the sapphire crystal can use the same crystal indefinitely (assuming its in good shape), as sapphire's properties stay consistent unlike plexi and it is the gasket below which keeps moisture out of these modern references. Slightly different means to achieve the same objective, you can see. But, the disprepancy means acrylic-equipped vintages can't be simply "updated" with a sapphire crystal of any sort...at least if one desires their classic Rolex to retain its water resistant qualities.

Hopefully, this explanation makes sense!

Great explanation Adam, thanks for sharing.

le_baroudeur · 26 April 2012, 01:35 AM

If you buy a watch, and prior to get it wet, have it serviced or at least pressure checked by a rolex distributor, and you will be ok. After that, have it serviced every 5 years to get all those gaskets changed.

springolators · 26 April 2012, 04:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by le_baroudeur

After that, have it serviced every 5 years to get all those gaskets changed.

Does rolex tell you how often you should get your watch serviced? Do most people go for every 5 years, unless they have a problem?

Adam K. · 28 April 2012, 08:16 PM

Full overhauls (movement, case seals, the whole meal deal) are generally recommended every 4-7 years, maybe 10 at most if the watch isn't worn more than couple times monthly. For water resistance, its a good idea to have the watch pressure tested at least every 2 years, and possibly annually, if you see a lot of water time with your timepiece, like a diver or even a swimmer. Some will say "I only service my watch when it starts letting me down" while others, like me, prefer to practice preventative maintenance with the idea that there are a damn lot of parts in even the simplest mechanical movements, and they depend on many different lubricants and operate within narrow parameters that get affected by the wear and tear of everyday use, parts wear, and the breakdown of lubricants.

There are many variables which affect the case sealing areas (water resistance), too---for example, is your watch exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations on a regular basis, causing gasket materials to shrink and expand? Do you open the crown a lot to set the time, wind the watch, etc? More potential wear for the gaskets, that undergo compression and relaxation as well as exposure to the elements that they might not if it stays screwed down more often. Do you and your watch spend a lot of time in the sun--if so, the crystal gasket is exposed to a lot of harmful UV rays that can break rubber gasket materials down faster than otherwise. And on and on. The point isn't to be paranoid about what might go bad, only realizing that the more use anything sees, the more wear it undergoes....this is one thing I LIKE about Rolex: with the abundance of RSCs around the world, and watchmakers who are trained to open up a Rolex and diagnose/fix issues with them compared to more exclusive luxury brands, there's really no excuse to not stay on top of maintaining these things.

The good news is, with just a modicum of basic PM maintenance, a Rolex Oyster can be kept in tip-top shape with comparative ease. And then, it can really be the go-everywhere companion it was designed to be. These watches might not be COMPLETELY bulletproof as some may suggest, but they get a lot closer to being that than do many other prestigious marques.

DAMAS7 · 29 April 2012, 06:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dddrees

The sapphire crystal is an extremely hard substance and although it's not entirely impossible to scratch it is extremely hard to scratch them unlike the plastic crytals they used to use. Sapphire can shatter if dropped at the right angle, but anything can break if dropped at the right angle.

Rolex started introducing the sapphire crystal in the seventies and by the late 80's to very early 90's they no longer use the plastic crystal on any of their watches. These crystals were a lot easier to scratch, but it was possible to remove light scratches with a bit of polywatch and elbow grease.

And these new sapphire crystal is 2mm. thick and when used in a low diameter like Rolex Explorer II or GMT is has more resistant and not only for the presure than other brands that use crystals with 4mm. thick.

Rikki · 29 April 2012, 11:56 PM

The sapphire crystals are the same for datejust and sport models except sea dweller. The only difference is the gasket used, the sport models use a taller gasket except the yacht master which uses the same gasket as the datejust models. The sea dweller uses an altogether different gasket and is thicker. Rikki

Rikki · 29 April 2012, 11:58 PM

In addition the 14060 uses a smaller diameter crystal the Daytona uses the 295 1 crystal with no cyclop. I think that covers it. Rikki

23 April 2012, 09:05 PM	#1
springolators Member Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: France / England Posts: 36	Waterproof questions and Sapphire crystal questions I have read a bit on this forum, and noticed that a lot of people are not so into sapphire crystals on their watches. Are there any good points to these? Do they possibly last longer? Show less scratches? Am I mistaken or do all new rolex come with sapphire crystals now? I would also like to know more about how rolex stay waterproof? Some people on the forum say that if I get an after market bezel it will no longer be waterproof? Does this mean that if you remove the bezel from any rolex it will no longer be waterproof? I do not plan to go swimming with the watch, but what if I get caught in the rain?

23 April 2012, 09:33 PM	#2
dddrees "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Dan Location: USA Watch: This N That Posts: 34,258	The sapphire crystal is an extremely hard substance and although it's not entirely impossible to scratch it is extremely hard to scratch them unlike the plastic crytals they used to use. Sapphire can shatter if dropped at the right angle, but anything can break if dropped at the right angle. Rolex started introducing the sapphire crystal in the seventies and by the late 80's to very early 90's they no longer use the plastic crystal on any of their watches. These crystals were a lot easier to scratch, but it was possible to remove light scratches with a bit of polywatch and elbow grease. __________________ When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

24 April 2012, 08:05 PM	#3
Adam K. Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: WA Watch: All the Oysters Posts: 811	As I understand it, the acrylic crystal is pressed into place by the bezel and actually serves the purpose of keeping water out, even though there is no separate gasket beneath it; e.g. the edge of the acrylic crystal pressure set into place keeps moisture from entering through that section of the case---this is why sapphire crystal replacements (which are inflexible, unlike acrylic/plexi) don't work and fail to provide the pressure-proof seal that is so important. Modern sapphire crystal Rolex models, on the other hand, have a separate gasket (made of Delrin, I believe) which achieves the purpose of keeping moisture from entering. These can shrink and wear over time and UV/heat exposure, and of course should be replaced when needed to keep the watch pressure-proof. With the acrylic crystals, stress cracks can form at the base of the crystal itself due to a strong pressure (severe impact etc) or just dry out over time and begin crazing...which is why on vintage models, the acrylic crystal is typically replaced as a matter of course during a servicing. Models engineered for the sapphire crystal can use the same crystal indefinitely (assuming its in good shape), as sapphire's properties stay consistent unlike plexi and it is the gasket below which keeps moisture out of these modern references. Slightly different means to achieve the same objective, you can see. But, the disprepancy means acrylic-equipped vintages can't be simply "updated" with a sapphire crystal of any sort...at least if one desires their classic Rolex to retain its water resistant qualities. Hopefully, this explanation makes sense! Last edited by Adam K.; 24 April 2012 at 08:10 PM.. Reason: clarity

26 April 2012, 01:35 AM	#8
le_baroudeur "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Rennes, FRANCE Posts: 802	If you buy a watch, and prior to get it wet, have it serviced or at least pressure checked by a rolex distributor, and you will be ok. After that, have it serviced every 5 years to get all those gaskets changed. __________________ Card Carrying Member of the Global Assoc. of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons.

29 April 2012, 11:56 PM	#12
Rikki TechXpert Join Date: Jun 2009 Real Name: Rik Dietel Location: Seminole Fla Watch: 5512 s/s Sub Posts: 1,818	The sapphire crystals are the same for datejust and sport models except sea dweller. The only difference is the gasket used, the sport models use a taller gasket except the yacht master which uses the same gasket as the datejust models. The sea dweller uses an altogether different gasket and is thicker. Rikki __________________ Century 21 Certified watchmaker Omega Service Provider Trained Omega OWME Certified. Rolex Parts Account Holder.

25 April 2012, 08:44 AM	#5
Adam K. Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: WA Watch: All the Oysters Posts: 811	Most welcome!

25 April 2012, 07:03 PM	#6
ayres "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: honolulu Watch: whatever runs Posts: 551	and just to add to the discussion, i had a 1680 recently overhauled and included a new acrylic crystal... i've been swimming with it plenty of times. works like a charm.

28 April 2012, 08:16 PM	#10
Adam K. Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: WA Watch: All the Oysters Posts: 811	Full overhauls (movement, case seals, the whole meal deal) are generally recommended every 4-7 years, maybe 10 at most if the watch isn't worn more than couple times monthly. For water resistance, its a good idea to have the watch pressure tested at least every 2 years, and possibly annually, if you see a lot of water time with your timepiece, like a diver or even a swimmer. Some will say "I only service my watch when it starts letting me down" while others, like me, prefer to practice preventative maintenance with the idea that there are a damn lot of parts in even the simplest mechanical movements, and they depend on many different lubricants and operate within narrow parameters that get affected by the wear and tear of everyday use, parts wear, and the breakdown of lubricants. There are many variables which affect the case sealing areas (water resistance), too---for example, is your watch exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations on a regular basis, causing gasket materials to shrink and expand? Do you open the crown a lot to set the time, wind the watch, etc? More potential wear for the gaskets, that undergo compression and relaxation as well as exposure to the elements that they might not if it stays screwed down more often. Do you and your watch spend a lot of time in the sun--if so, the crystal gasket is exposed to a lot of harmful UV rays that can break rubber gasket materials down faster than otherwise. And on and on. The point isn't to be paranoid about what might go bad, only realizing that the more use anything sees, the more wear it undergoes....this is one thing I LIKE about Rolex: with the abundance of RSCs around the world, and watchmakers who are trained to open up a Rolex and diagnose/fix issues with them compared to more exclusive luxury brands, there's really no excuse to not stay on top of maintaining these things. The good news is, with just a modicum of basic PM maintenance, a Rolex Oyster can be kept in tip-top shape with comparative ease. And then, it can really be the go-everywhere companion it was designed to be. These watches might not be COMPLETELY bulletproof as some may suggest, but they get a lot closer to being that than do many other prestigious marques.

29 April 2012, 11:58 PM	#13
Rikki TechXpert Join Date: Jun 2009 Real Name: Rik Dietel Location: Seminole Fla Watch: 5512 s/s Sub Posts: 1,818	In addition the 14060 uses a smaller diameter crystal the Daytona uses the 295 1 crystal with no cyclop. I think that covers it. Rikki __________________ Century 21 Certified watchmaker Omega Service Provider Trained Omega OWME Certified. Rolex Parts Account Holder.

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