Acrylic Crystals (Hesalite)

Acrylic, the material of older watches

Often called Plexiglas or hesalite, acrylic is fitted to many antique and vintage watches. It is a soft material: it scratches easily, but it can be polished, restoring its clarity without replacing it. It also has the advantage of flexing slightly when fitted rather than shattering.

This category brings together 11 products and 1271 diameters, from 9.6 to 50 mm, from €5.90 to €20.90 inc. VAT:

• Flat and extra-thin, for low-profile watches;
• Domed: dome, high dome, low domed, stepped, wide-curve, faceted, lipped, drawing-pin and pocket watch.

The choice is mainly made on the profile: height of the dome, presence of a step or lip around the edge, cut facets. Compare the original crystal with the product images before taking the diameter.

For measuring, follow our guide to measuring a crystal. If your crystal is only dulled, the tutorial on polishing an acrylic crystal may save a replacement. The page on crystal types helps confirm that it really is acrylic.