Rolex used acrylic (Plexiglas) crystals on every reference through the late 1970s, and on the Explorer, Sub, and GMT through the mid-1980s. Acrylic crystals scratch easily but polish out with Polywatch; sapphire crystals resist scratches but shatter on impact. Correct crystal for reference matters—Rolex used specific crystal molds (T19, T20, etc.) with reference-appropriate cyclops geometry and dome height. A 'super dome' crystal on a Datejust or a 'Tropic 19' on a Submariner is a subtle originality detail collectors notice.
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Case parts
Acrylic Crystals
The material that gives vintage Rolex its warm, curved-glass character.