Watch Materials Explained: 316L Steel, Sapphire Crystal and Movements
What your watch is made of, in plain English
Every Tomell London watch is built from the same few materials. Here is what each one means, and why it matters when you wear the watch every day.
316L stainless steel
316L is a low-carbon grade of stainless steel that resists corrosion and does not tarnish. It is the same grade used in surgical steel, so it is also kind to sensitive skin. Our gold, rose gold and silver finishes are applied over 316L steel cases.
Sapphire crystal glass
Sapphire crystal is the clear glass over the dial. It rates 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, so everyday knocks and keys do not scratch it. Cheaper watches use mineral glass, which scratches much more easily. Every Tomell London watch has a sapphire crystal.
Quartz or automatic: which movement?
Japan quartz is battery-powered. It is accurate, needs no winding and suits most people. Miyota automatic is self-winding: the movement winds itself from the motion of your wrist, so it never needs a battery as long as you wear it. Automatics cost more and some people simply prefer the feel of one. See our automatic vs quartz guide or automatic watches under £400.
Frosted finish and stardust dials
A frosted case has a fine matte texture that scatters light, instead of reflecting it in one direction like polished steel. It looks richer and hides daily wear. A stardust dial has a fine sparkle that shifts as you move. Browse the frosted collection.
Water resistance (ATM)
ATM is the water resistance rating. 3 ATM handles splashes and rain. 10 ATM suits swimming. The rating differs by model, so always check the spec on the product page. See our watch care guide.
Every watch comes with
A black gift box, a handwritten note from the founder, dispatch the same day and a 24-month warranty.