VISIT US AT 1127 QUEENSBOROUGH BLVD #105 OR CALL (843) 936-3516
VISIT US AT 1127 QUEENSBOROUGH BLVD #105 OR CALL (843) 936-3516
Watch water resistance ratings can be confusing. If the back of your watch says “30 meters,” for example, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should take it 30 meters underwater. Understanding ratings such as ATM, bar and meters can help you determine whether your watch is suitable for everyday splashes, swimming or more demanding water activities. It’s also important to remember that water resistance can decline over time as seals and gaskets age.If you’re unsure about your current watch or shopping for one that fits your lifestyle, visit Sandler’s Diamonds & Time in Mt. Pleasant, SC. We can help with professional watch repair or help you choose a watch with the features and water resistance you need.
Watch water resistance is the watch’s ability to prevent water from entering its case under certain conditions. Several components work together to create this protection, including the case, crystal, crown and small seals known as gaskets.
A watch’s water resistance rating is determined through pressure testing under controlled conditions. That’s important because those conditions don’t perfectly replicate everyday use. A watch rated to 30 meters isn’t necessarily designed for every activity that occurs less than 30 meters underwater.
Swimming, temperature changes, impacts and simply getting older can all affect a watch’s ability to keep water out. That’s why you should consider both the original rating and the watch’s current condition before exposing it to water.
Although you may hear the term “waterproof watch,” water-resistant is more accurate. No watch should be considered permanently protected against water under every possible condition.
Even watches specifically designed for swimming or diving rely on seals and other components that can wear down. Proper care and periodic servicing help maintain the level of protection the watch was designed to provide.
Watch water resistance ratings are commonly expressed using ATM, bar or meters. While these measurements look different, they all describe the amount of pressure a watch is designed to withstand during testing.
ATM stands for atmosphere, a measurement of pressure, while bar is another unit used to measure pressure. Meters indicate the theoretical depth of water pressure the watch is rated to withstand during testing, rather than the actual depth you can safely wear the watch underwater.
Common watch water resistance ratings include:
However, these meter ratings shouldn’t automatically be interpreted as safe diving depths. A 30-meter rating, for instance, doesn’t mean you should swim or dive 30 meters below the surface while wearing your watch.
So, how much water exposure can your luxury watch actually handle? The following watch water resistance chart shows common ratings and the activities for which they may be appropriate:
| Rating | Approx. Equivalent | Use |
| Water resistant | Varies | Accidental splashes only |
| 3 ATM / 30m | 3 bar / 100 ft | Rain and light splashes |
| 5 ATM / 50m | 5 bar / 165 ft | Everyday water exposure; swimming depends on manufacturer guidance |
| 10 ATM / 100m | 10 bar / 330 ft | Swimming and snorkeling |
| 20 ATM / 200m | 20 bar / 660 ft | Swimming, snorkeling and some diving |
| 30 ATM / 300m+ | 30 bar / 1,000 ft+ | Higher water resistance; diving depends on design and certification |
This chart should be treated as a general guide. Always follow your watch manufacturer’s recommendations, especially before swimming or diving.
Whether you can swim with a watch that’s labeled “water-resistant” depends on its rating, condition and the manufacturer’s instructions. A watch with only 30m water resistance shouldn’t automatically be considered suitable for swimming. Watches rated to 100 meters are generally much better suited to recreational swimming, provided the manufacturer recommends it and the watch’s seals are in good condition.
You should also consider where you’re swimming. Saltwater and chlorinated pool water can be hard on watches and their components. After wearing an appropriate water-resistant watch in saltwater, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. This could include rinsing the watch with fresh water afterward.
Most importantly, don’t assume an older watch still provides the same water resistance it did when new.
Further reading: 8 Signs Your Watch Needs Repair
A watch could be water-resistant but still not be ideal for wearing in the shower. Showers expose your watch to heat, steam, soap, shampoo and temperature changes.
Heat and temperature changes can be problematic as a watch and its seals age. Soap and other products can also leave residue around the case, bracelet and seals.
Unless your manufacturer specifically indicates otherwise, removing your watch before showering is an easy way to reduce unnecessary exposure.
Water resistance isn’t necessarily permanent. A watch that could safely withstand certain types of water exposure when new can become less resistant as its components age. Several factors affect water resistance, including:
Vintage watches deserve additional caution. Even if a vintage watch was originally advertised with a particular water resistance rating, its age, previous repairs and current seals can make that rating incorrect for its current condition.
Routine watch maintenance can help preserve your watch’s water resistance and reduce the risk of moisture reaching the movement.
Before exposing your watch to water, make sure its crown is completely closed. If your watch has a screw-down crown, confirm that it’s properly secured. Avoid adjusting the crown or operating pushers underwater unless the manufacturer says those functions can be used while submerged.
Gaskets should also be inspected and replaced when necessary. If your watch’s case has been opened for a battery replacement or repair, consider having its water resistance checked afterward, especially if you regularly wear it around water.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals and pay attention to your watch’s condition. Significant impacts, crystal damage or other problems are a good reason to have your watch inspected even if it isn’t due for routine service.
Fog or condensation beneath the crystal is one of the most obvious signs that moisture has entered your watch. You might also notice visible droplets, corrosion or changes in how the watch operates.
Don’t assume the problem is resolved simply because the condensation disappears. Moisture trapped inside the case can affect the movement, dial, hands and other components, potentially turning a relatively straightforward problem into a more extensive repair.
If you notice signs of water inside your watch, don’t operate the crown or pushers and have the watch professionally inspected as soon as possible. The sooner moisture is addressed, the better the chance of limiting damage to internal components.
Whether you own an everyday timepiece or a luxury watch, proper maintenance can help keep it running reliably and protect it from unnecessary damage.
Sandler’s Diamonds & Time provides professional watch repair services for customers in Mt. Pleasant and the greater Charleston area. Our watch services include battery replacement, crystal replacement, crown and stem repair, movement overhaul or replacement and repairs for damage caused by impacts and magnetization.
Visit Sandler’s Diamonds & Time today for professional watch services or to explore our selection of watches and find the right timepiece for your lifestyle.
