Abstract: An optical element is provide which has a durability enhancing layer. There is provided an optical disk comprising a support having on one surface thereof, in order:a) a recording layer such that said recording layer does not cover the entire surface of said disk but leaves an annular portion at the outer diameter;b) a reflective layer such that said reflective layer does not cover the entire surface of said disk but leaves an annular portion at the outer diameter;c) a first protective layer having a thickness between about 2-20 .mu.m, said protective layer being of a material having good adhesion to said support and covering a portion of the surface of said disk having said reflective layer, including at least a portion of said annular portion;d) a second protective layer having a thickness of at least about 3 .mu.m, said second layer covering at least the area of said surface having the reflective layer and having good adhesion to said first protective layer.