Which is why there is a huge misconception that only diamond/corundum can scratch sapphire screens of the Apple Watch (for instance, the thread starter's post).
Also, I was referring to the screen, not the watch case, as is this thread's topic.
I'm just sharing that there are minerals that can scratch sapphire easily (a single particle somewhere could've landed on watch) and, even softer minerals/materials can do so with sufficient force/impact. An entire scientific field is built around this, which is known as tribology.
The thread starter could've come into contact with something such that his watch's screen got scratched, something he believed could not happen. I'm just saying that it's actually possible to scratch sapphire as you don't need diamond to do so.
Besides, if the information I've posted is too technical (I've tried my best not to be), readers are free to ignore it. But I think it's helpful to clear up the misconceptions about hardness and scratch resistance, at the very least, it might help readers to actually know what to expect when they buy something with a sapphire glass.
Also, hard carbides (harder than sapphire) are not uncommon. They are present in many tools and when used, hard particles may fly around like "dusts", and can be encountered (even if you don't know it) just being outside.
Again, I'm not refuting anything You're saying, nor am I suggesting you shouldn't post based off your knowledge or experience. I think your slightly deviating from my point (Not the thread topic). I completely understand Saphirre is prone to suffering damage and it's not impervious to outside elements that are unseen or unknown.
My point is and was for the matter, the typical consumer doesn't correlate dusts, particles, and debris to
why it scratched, the owner determines
how it scratched. Rather it be a wall scuff or ramming it into something sharp edged. The consumer wants the added protection of knowing it will ultimately protect their investment.
Apple puts laymens terms into perspective that won't confuse the customer. The technicality of your post(s) go beyond any comprehension someone would even ponder of, which isn't to say you're wrong for doing
So. The points you're touching on would likely be that of an engineer or beyond.
It's saying the sapphire display is the better material to protect your device. The oleophobic coating really applies for a limited Time before it wears down. That said, it's not logical to consider the unknown elements to scratch the sapphire, it's the basic facts that how it happened for practical purposes, I.e, everyday hazards or mishaps.
I understand you're posting your knowledge on the various levels of metals, but it's more so the idea of how for terms of "I scratched my Watch on my car today", not "Random dust particles or other minerals mysteriously scratched my Watch." It doesn't equate to logical thinking.
The most important part, as stated by both parties, sapphire is an added layer of protection, but doesn't guarantee anything other than that, added protection. More so, on an electronic Watch, it's fairly obtrusive when staring at a black screen or a darker background, versus clear quartz. That's what causes these discussions, because the damage stands out blatantly.
