Water Resistance vs. Waterproof: Understanding Your Watch's Limits
Water Resistance vs. Waterproof: Understanding Your Watch's Limits
While many watches are designed to be water-resistant, the concept can be misleading. If you’re a diver, swimmer, or simply water-conscious, here’s what you need to know to protect your timepiece from moisture and potential damage.
What Does “Waterproof” Really Mean?
No watch is truly "waterproof." The term implies absolute protection from water in any circumstance, but all watches have a limit to the pressure they can withstand before water enters the case. In the watch industry, we prefer the term "water-resistant," as it reflects the actual capacity of a watch to repel moisture to a certain extent.
What Does “Water Resistant” Mean?
If your watch is stamped with "Water Resistant," it means it's protected against humidity and minor splashes, like washing your hands or being caught in the rain. However, this label doesn’t imply it's safe for swimming, diving, or prolonged water exposure. Water resistance is maintained by gaskets—small O-rings made of rubber or silicone—that seal the movement from water. These seals wear over time, which is why routine testing is essential.
Understanding Pressure Ratings: ATM and Bar
The water resistance of a watch is measured in atmospheres (ATM) or bars. One atmosphere is approximately equal to 10 meters (or 30 feet). These measures refer to the watch's ability to withstand pressure, not the depth at which you should use it.
Diver’s Watches vs. Complicated Watches
Diver’s watches are purpose-built for heavy water exposure and withstand depths of 200 meters or more. They often feature a single screw-down crown and reinforced gaskets around the crystal and case back. For those who swim, dive, or engage in water sports, a diver’s watch is an excellent choice.
How Often Should You Test Your Watch’s Water Resistance?
We recommend testing your watch’s water resistance annually, or more often if it’s frequently exposed to water or salt. Saltwater, in particular, causes corrosion and can weaken gaskets over time, making regular checks crucial for maintaining water resistance.
What Happens During a Water Resistance Test?
A water resistance test assesses and replaces worn gaskets to ensure seals are tight. Over time, gaskets dry out and lose their ability to keep water out, so this preventive maintenance is key to protecting your watch.
What if I Accidentally Swim with a Non-Water-Resistant Watch?
If your watch has been exposed to water accidentally, dry it immediately by warming the back of the case to draw moisture away from the movement. Keep wearing the watch, as your body heat will also help. Bring it to Jackson Jewelers as soon as possible, where our watch experts can open, dry, and repair it if needed.
Can I Shower with My Watch On?
Showering with your watch is strongly discouraged. Soap, shampoo, and other products are highly corrosive and can damage delicate watch components. If soap exposure occurs, rinse and dry your watch quickly.
Is Swimming with a Chronograph Safe?
Chronographs have multiple entry points for water, including pushers, a crown, and case back gaskets. Even if they’re labeled water-resistant, they aren’t ideal for swimming.
Tips for Protecting Your Chronograph Near Water:
- Never adjust the bezel, crown, or pushers underwater, as this can break the gasket seal.
- Always ensure the crown is pushed in or screwed down for a complete seal.
What About Leather Straps?
Leather straps aren’t designed for water exposure. Moisture, sunlight, and contact with cosmetics or oils can discolor or damage leather prematurely. If your strap does get wet, dry it immediately with a soft cloth to minimize damage.
At Jackson Jewelers, our professionals are equipped to perform multiple tests and answer any questions about caring for your watch. Let us help you protect your timepiece for years of reliable performance.