Breitling watches, renowned for their robust design and precision engineering, are not immune to the wear and tear of daily life. While the brand utilizes high-quality sapphire crystals for superior scratch resistance, the reality is that scratches can and do occur. This article delves into the prevalence of scratches on Breitling watch glasses, focusing on the distinction between scratches on the sapphire crystal itself and those on the anti-reflective (AR) coating, and explores options for repair and prevention.
The inherent hardness of sapphire crystals, composed of corundum (second only to diamond on the Mohs hardness scale), is often cited as a guarantee against scratching. However, this perception needs nuance. While sapphire is remarkably resistant to scratching, it's not invincible. Harder materials, such as diamonds or certain industrial abrasives, can still inflict damage. More commonly, the cumulative effect of minor impacts from dust particles, sand, or even the rough texture of clothing can, over time, lead to fine scratches that, while often microscopic, are still visible under close inspection.
The discussion around Breitling glass scratches frequently centers around the anti-reflective (AR) coating. This coating, applied to the underside of the sapphire crystal to reduce glare and improve readability, is significantly softer than the sapphire itself. This is where the majority of visible scratches often appear. As highlighted in online forums like The Breitling Watch Source Forums and Reddit's r/breitling, the prevalence of AR coating scratches is a recurring theme. Threads such as "Little scratch on Navitimer glass," "Are these scratches to the AR coating or glass?", and "Light scratch removal" exemplify the common concern among Breitling owners.
The statement that "Scratches on AR are as inevitable as scratches on clasps, and a lot less noticeable" reflects a realistic perspective. While the clasp, being a frequently manipulated component, is prone to visible wear, the AR coating scratches, even if more numerous, are typically finer and less visually disruptive than scratches on the sapphire crystal itself. The subtlety of these scratches often leads to debate and uncertainty among owners, as illustrated in discussions on forums concerning the identification of scratches on the AR coating versus the crystal itself.
The online community provides a wealth of anecdotal evidence concerning the frequency and visibility of these scratches. Posts like "Help! Scratched crystal on my new Navitimer. Repairable?" highlight the emotional impact of even minor damage to a cherished timepiece. The desire to understand the extent of the damage and explore repair options is a common thread across these forums. The question "Do Breitling crystals scratch and how much to repair?" underscores the practical concerns faced by owners.
The differences in the nature and visibility of scratches on the AR coating and the sapphire crystal itself are crucial. Scratches on the sapphire crystal are typically deeper, more pronounced, and often require professional polishing or replacement to remedy. Scratches on the AR coating, while numerous, tend to be superficial and less visually impacting. They can often be minimized or even rendered invisible through careful cleaning and polishing. However, this distinction is not always easy to make without close examination, often requiring magnification and expertise.
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