Welcome, Timelords. We suppose that you’ve come across a few watches, and maybe seen a few stats like 300 metres, 50 metres, or just “Water-Resistant”. So, what exactly do they mean and why should you place importance on them?

While a model can never be completely waterproof, as it’s impossible for an item of this nature to be completely impervious to the elements, especially under high-levels of pressure.

On the other hand, there are some watches out there like the Bell & Ross Hydromax (11,100 metres) or Rolex Deepsea that do a pretty good job! 

In truth, selecting the right brand is key for surviving incredible depths.

LEARN MORE: Question Time: Should You Buy The Titanium Rolex Deepsea Challenge 126067

As a rule of thumb, models are broken down into a few different resistance levels, in order to clearly decipher what level of protection they can offer, allowing the quality and functionality of the timepieces to remain. 

Let’s deep dive into all the essential details and find out the vitals…are watches waterproof?

 

How To Define Water Resistance

Water resistance essentially refers to the capability of watches to resist water pressure in a plethora of depths.

This can include diving in the sea, swimming in the pool, or simply taking a nice, toasty shower! Generally, the brand you buy will be a definitive indicator of the potential water resistance of the models.

Source - National Geographic

 

Since horology can be quite a complex place, the industry has established a very simple process that allows you to easily determine how well a model can capably deal with being exposed to specific depths, and their subsequent waterproof level.

These can be referred to by way of metres or atmospheres (ATM). These specific figures will cover the depths that everyone from divers to businessmen will be able to handle their arm candy. 

READ MORE: 63 Best Dive Watches For Luxury Watch Enthusiasts

There are some models out there that offer exceptionally high limitations, against a standard dress timepiece from say Patek Philippe which may be limited to just 30 metres. 

Typically, 100 metres upwards is a good indicator of models that can withstand most of the everyday water conditions, including swimming. For 30 metres, this can mainly deal with the following;

• Light rain
• Hand washing
• Puddle splashes

LEARN MORE: A Collection Of The Best Everyday Watches For The Modern Gent - Chrono Hunter

 

Why Waterproof and Water-Resistant Are Oceans Apart

You’ll hear a few terms bandied around, but they are not all mutually exclusive. 

For example, when you hear waterproof and water-resistant, these refer to two different types of water capability and depth ability. Now of course, we do not want you to be misled if you believe that waterproof comes under that umbrella!

Water-resistant is the accurate term when describing the strength of a timepiece underwater. Waterproof simply identifies that they have some level of resistance to depths (quite vague, we know).

Allow us to break it down in a very easy to understand table:

 

Water Resistance Level	Activities You Can Safely Do (Aforementioned included as you move down rows)
10 metres / 1 ATM / 1 Bar / 33.8 feet	Washing hands Rainfall
30 metres / 3 ATM / 3 bars / 100 feet	Longer Rainfall Periods Brief Shower Unsuitable for swimming
50 metres / 5 ATM / 5 bars / 165 feet	Shower Gentle splashes Shallow swimming
100 metres / 10 ATM / 10 Bars / 330 feet	Swimming Snorkelling Scuba-diving and a host of water sports
200 metres / 20 ATM / 20 Bars / 660 feet	Scuba-diving Unsuitable for helium dive immersion, unless a helium escape valve is present.
600 metres / 60 ATM / 60 Bars / 2,000 feet	Professional Scuba-diving This depth rating can withstand significant immersion amid harsh underwater terrain
1000 metres / 100 ATM / 100 Bars / 3,300 feet	Professional deep-diving Capability to handle tough conditions

 

Of course, water resistance is understood in a controlled environment within each brand's labs. 

This means that it cannot quite qualify for an accurate outside world reading, or determining real world depths.

Therefore, there is a 25% addition that brands must meet in order to qualify for the said resistance rating. In order to obtain 300 metres of water resistance, as per the Submariner, the brand must reach 375 metres during the testing process.

DISCOVER MORE: Should You Still Buy A Rolex Submariner In 2025?

 

Rolex And Water Resistance Legacy

Rolex’s legacy in the horological world is exceptional, setting the blueprint for dive watches that have stood the test of time. 

 

What Is The Mariana Trench?

It is known as the deepest known part of the world's oceans, located in the western Pacific Ocean, east of the Mariana Islands.

At its deepest point, the Challenger Deep, the trench reaches depths of about 36,000 feet (nearly 11,000 metres), which is deeper than Mount Everest is tall.

To put this into perspective, if you dropped Mount Everest into the trench, its peak would still be more than a mile underwater.

Exploring the Mariana Trench has been a tremendous challenge due to the extreme pressure, cold temperatures, and the inaccessibility of the location. However, over the years, several missions have been launched to explore its depths.

The most famous of these was by James Cameron in 2012, when he made a solo journey to the bottom in the Deepsea Challenger submersible along with the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Deepsea Challenge

Despite the overwhelming difficulties, exploration of the Mariana Trench is crucial for scientific research, especially for understanding unique ecosystems that thrive in the most extreme conditions.

 

Rolex And Dive Watches

One of the brand’s most well-known innovations is its range of divers, which are designed to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea exploration. 

The Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, was one of the first wristwatches to be waterproof to a depth of 100 metres, a significant milestone at the time. Over the years, Rolex has continued to develop timepieces that are capable of withstanding even deeper depths.

Rolex’s Sea-Dweller and Deepsea models are designed specifically for professional divers, with the latter being tested to withstand pressures at depths of up to 3,900 metres.

The Rolex Deepsea Challenge model, for example, is a testament to the brand’s connection with extreme underwater exploration, as it was part of the expedition to the Mariana Trench in 2012.

 

The Connection Between The Mariana Trench And Rolex

In 2012, when James Cameron descended into the Challenger Deep, he wore a specially made Rolex Deepsea Challenge on his wrist. 

Attached to the exterior of his submersible, it withstood the crushing pressures of the trench's depths—over 1,000 times the pressure at sea level.

The watch survived the journey, proving the incredible durability and precision of the brand’s timepieces, despite the most extreme conditions on Earth.

Rolex’s involvement in the exploration of the deepest parts of the ocean aligns with its brand ethos of precision and robustness, qualities that have made it a symbol of reliability, not just for divers, but for explorers and professionals in various fields.

In short, the connection between Rolex and the Mariana Trench will always be a symbol of pushing the limits of what's possible.

Whether you decide to buy a watch capable of wearing on your sail boat, or models that can lunge down into the murky depths, akin to James Cameron and the Mariana Trench, you can easily find the watches in their brand portfolio.  

Ref. 13668LB - Source - Rolex

 

Time to make a splash. Below is our top 5 list on those Rolex collections that show their versatility and depth rating abilities:

 

Watches / Water Resistance	Water Resistance Depth Rating	Wearability / Notable Features
Rolex Submariner	300 metres	Ideal everyday use and can be worn for recreational diving. Blueprint of all dive watches, reliable unidirectional bezel, range of material choices.
Rolex Deepsea / 3,900 metres		Deep dive capabilities, hitting exceptionally large depths. Maybe too big for office/daily life.  Sensational dive rating, provided by an ultra-innovative Ringlock system.
Rolex Yacht-Master / 100 metres		Perfect addition for sailing, scuba diving and in the swimming pool. Stylish bi-directional bezel, plethora of materials to suit every style of wearer.
Rolex Sea-Dweller / 1,220 metres		Reliable for deep-sea diving for amateur and professionals.  Fitted with  helium-escape valve and chunky case for exceptional water protection.
Rolex Explorer / 100 metres		Adventurous design as per its release, celebrating their ascension of Everest. Dual time zone capability, so you can be down in the caves and still know if it’s day or night! Minimalist design with popularised “Polar” dial for pop of colour. Not too big on the wrist, and available solely in steel for an affordable choice.

 

Feats Of Phenomenal Water Resistance

We know that you want the hard stats when it comes to the best water resistant watches, countering any depth rating. 

Therefore, we have painstakingly condensed a list of sensational nautical themed timepieces that have made a significant impact on history and popular culture.

RM 032 with depth rating of 300 metres. Source - Richard Mille

 

 

Name Of Watches (Date of Accomplishment)	Achievement
Rolex Oyster 1926	First ever waterproof wristwatch which utilised a hermetically sealed case alongside a screw-down crown bezel and caseback. Worn by Mercedes Gleitze when she swam across the English Channel, the model remained completely functional afterwards.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer 2000 Exclusive 2004	First ever chronograph timepiece to achieve 300 metres of waterproof capability.
Richard Mille RM 032 2011	First divers chronograph with flyback functionality that reaches a depth rating of 300 metres water resistance.
Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 1953	Considered the world's first diving watch.  Originally designed for the military and professional divers, including a unidirectional bezel that tracks dive times and utilises luminous markers for legibility.  Used by everyone from the French Navy to Jacques Cousteau.
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Ultra Deep Professional 2019	First watch to reach the deepest point on Earth (around 10,925 metres) during the Five Deeps Expedition.  Secured to the side of Limiting Factor (the submarine) and competently dealt with the Challenger Deep water pressure.

 

What Potentially Impacts The Water Resistance Of A Watch?

Water resistance is usually secured for the lifetime of the models. 

However, there are a few things that can cause its depth rating to become lower. Heck, the best brands will even inform you of the importance of keeping your timepieces maintained for optimal performance. 

For example, from the rubber seals around the crown, to the gaskets such as the Rolex Triplock, offering optimal protection can get worn down. This results in the watch's ability to withstand water, to dramatically decrease unlike the brand’s latest price rise. 

LEARN MORE: What Is The Rolex Price Increase 2025?

Furthermore, other aspects such as drastic temperature changes, physical knocks and impacts can prove to have significant effects on the water resistance. Moreover, there is an ability to competently deal with depths. 

Temperature fluctuations can cause contractions or expansion, resulting in the gaskets or seals being inefficient. Knocks can equally result in the seals or case becoming misshapen, and water more likely to enter. 

 

How do I Enhance My watchs water Resistance Capability?

While you cannot physically improve the depth rating, you can implement a few techniques to ensure the longevity and quality. 

 

• Maintenance 

Looking after your timepiece, or servicing is a crucial part of ensuring optimal protection. It’s advisable to send your watches to a professional in order to replace the gaskets and check the seals every few years. 

 

• Keep It Out Of Dangerous Conditions 

If you put your timepiece under excessive levels of stress, you may find that faults start to appear. For example, rapid temperature fluctuations can cause gaskets and seals to suffer, alongside saltwater potentially rusting the components.

 

• Talk To A Professional 

It’s integral that you do not open it, unless you have a high degree of expertise and knowhow. You could potentially alter the positioning of the seals or gaskets, resulting in water entering. 

 

• Keep Your Pushers And Crown Secure

If you press your pushers while underwater, this could potentially bring water into the watch as a small gap between the case forms. Furthermore, if you do not fully screw in the components, this could similarly allow water to enter and harm the mechanisms.

 

ISO 6425: Everything You Need To Know

ISO 6425 is an international standard that symbolises the requirements for dive watches. 

Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), it establishes strict guidelines to ensure that timepieces designed for diving can withstand the extreme conditions experienced underwater. 

The standard helps to differentiate professional diver’s watches from those simply designed to be water-resistant, offering a level of assurance that these timepieces will perform under the pressures of deep-sea environments.

 

The Origins of ISO 6425

The standard was developed to address the growing popularity of dive pieces in the mid-20th century, as they became an essential piece of equipment for professional divers and recreational enthusiasts alike. 

While many brands began producing water-resistant numbers, there was a need for a set of uniform standards to ensure that they would hold up under the rigorous demands of underwater environments.

ISO 6425 was officially introduced in 1982, with revisions and updates made over the years to keep pace with advances in technology and diving practices.

The standard is recognised worldwide and remains a benchmark for the quality and functionality of dive watches.

 

Key Requirements of ISO 6425

To be classified as a diver under ISO 6425, a timepiece must meet several stringent criteria. These include:

1. Water Resistance: It must be able to resist water at a minimum depth of 100 metres (10 ATM), but many modern divers are rated for much deeper depths, such as 200 metres, 300 metres, or even 1,000 metres in the case of specialised models.

 

2. Shock Resistance: It must be able to withstand shocks encountered in the demanding environments of underwater exploration, where sudden impacts or jolts can occur.

 

3. Legibility: It must have clear, legible markings and hands, especially in low-light conditions. This usually involves the use of luminescent paint or Super-LumiNova on the dial and hands, so it can be easily read in dark or murky waters.

 

4. Bezel: Divers must feature a rotating bezel that allows the diver to track elapsed time. The bezel is typically unidirectional (it can only rotate in one direction) to prevent accidental adjustments while underwater. It is also highly visible, often with luminous markings or strong contrasting colours for easy reading.

 

5. Anti-Magnetic Properties: Given the use of divers around powerful equipment, the timepiece must be magnetically resistant to prevent magnetic fields from interfering with the timekeeping function. This ensures accurate timekeeping, which is crucial when timing decompression stops or dives.

 

6. Resistance to Corrosion: Given the saltwater environment in which most divers operate, it must be resistant to corrosion caused by saltwater exposure. This is usually achieved through the use of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or ceramic.

 

7. Strap Durability: The strap or bracelet must be durable and able to withstand the harsh conditions of diving, such as exposure to saltwater, sunlight, and pressure. Materials like rubber or stainless steel are commonly used in diver novelties 

 

8. Accuracy: It must maintain an accurate time, which is especially important for divers who rely on precise timing to avoid decompression sickness. The timekeeping must be consistent even under high pressure.

 

9. Resistance to Fogging: Diver watches are subject to rapid changes in temperature and pressure, so they must be designed to prevent fogging or condensation inside This is typically achieved with special seals and a specific gasket system.

 

The ISO 6425 Diver’s Seal Of Approval

In most cases, the ISO 6425 standard typically features the "diver's watch" mark, a distinctive symbol used to indicate that it meets these rigorous requirements. This mark is often accompanied by the depth rating, which indicates water resistance capabilities.

While ISO 6425 remains the gold standard for divers, modern advancements have led to many innovations in the design and functionality of these pieces.

New materials like titanium and ceramic are now used in their construction to offer increased durability while providing lightweight elements. 

In addition, many of the world’s most renowned brands have designed timepieces that meet or exceed ISO 6425 standards, ensuring both professional divers and enthusiasts can rely on them for their dives.

In short, ISO 6425 ensures that divers are built to endure the harshest conditions underwater, providing the wearer with a reliable tool for accurate timekeeping in extreme depths. 

The standard’s focus on durability, legibility, and functionality means that divers can confidently rely on their timepieces during deep-sea exploration. 

 

ISO 22810 Explained

Deemed an international standard that specifically addresses the water resistance of wristwatches. 

Unlike ISO 6425, which is focused on professional divers, ISO 22810 applies to items designed for general water resistance and defines the requirements for watches that are exposed to water under everyday conditions. 

This standard is particularly important for ensuring that timepieces can handle water-related activities, such as swimming or washing hands, without suffering any incremental damage.

 

The Purpose of ISO 22810

The primary goal of ISO 22810 is to ensure that timepieces are purely marketed as water-resistant, and can actually withstand exposure to water under certain conditions. 

While ISO 6425 is specific to dive watches, ISO 22810 covers a broader range, from those intended for casual swimmers to those for daily wear in humid or wet conditions.

The standard helps consumers differentiate between ones that are suitable for underwater activities and those that are only resistant to occasional splashes, or brief immersion.

The ISO 22810 standard applies to wristwatches that are designed to resist water exposure at a depth rating, not exceeding 100 metres. This means that it’s primarily relevant for usage in everyday life, rather than in extreme underwater environments.

 

Key Requirements of ISO 22810

For a timepiece to be classified as water-resistant according to ISO 22810, it must meet several key requirements:

 

1. Water Resistance Testing: It must undergo rigorous water-resistance testing to ensure it can withstand the pressure of being submerged in water. Tests simulate various environmental conditions like temperature changes and pressure exposure, and a timepiece must remain functional and free from water penetration under these conditions.

 

2. Pressure Resistance: Unlike ISO 6425, which deals with divers for much deeper depth ratings, ISO 22810 generally applies to something rated for water resistance at depths of up to 100 metres (10 ATM). It covers typical recreational activities like swimming, snorkeling, and showering, but it is not intended for professional diving or high-pressure environments.

 

3. Crown and Pushers Sealing: For a watch to be classified as water-resistant under ISO 22810, its crown, pushers, and other case openings (such as the back case) must have proper seals to prevent water from entering. These seals should be made from materials that remain effective over time and exposure to moisture.

 

4. Gasket System: It must be fitted with high-quality gaskets (rubber or silicone seals) at various points of contact, particularly around the case back, crown, and the crystal. These gaskets ensure that no water can enter the inner workings during normal exposure to water.

 

5. Case and Crystal: The case and crystal (the glass covering the dial) must be constructed from materials that are impervious to water pressure. Materials like stainless steel, ceramic, and sapphire crystal are commonly used, as they are both durable and resistant to water damage.

 

6. Verification of Resistance: ISO 22810 also requires that the water resistance is verified through laboratory testing. This testing involves checking the seals and other components after the watch has been exposed to water under pressure. It must remain operational and free from leaks to be certified as water-resistant.

 

Depth Ratings in ISO 22810

A key element of ISO 22810 is the water resistance depth rating, which is usually indicated on the dial or case back. As expressed above, common water resistance ratings include:

• 30 metres / 3 ATM: Suitable for light exposure to water, such as splashes, rain, or hand washing, but not for swimming or submerging.
• 50 metres / 5 ATM: Suitable for swimming or light water sports, but not for diving.
• 100 metres / 10 ATM: Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and recreational water sports, but not for scuba diving or deeper activities.

It’s important to note that the depth rating indicates how much water pressure it can withstand, but it does not guarantee that it can be worn in those varying conditions indefinitely. Activities such as jumping into water, rapid temperature changes, or saltwater exposure can still affect water resistance.

 

Differences Between ISO 22810 and ISO 6425

While ISO 22810 is concerned with general water resistance for everyday watches, ISO 6425 focuses specifically on the water resistance requirements for professional divers. The key differences are:

• Depth and Pressure Resistance: ISO 6425 applies to timepieces designed for deeper depths (usually 100 metres or more), while ISO 22810 covers shallower depths (up to 100 metres).
• Specific Requirements: ISO 6425 imposes more stringent criteria for features such as legibility, bezel functionality, and shock resistance, which are crucial for professional divers. ISO 22810, on the other hand, is focused on ensuring that it function reliably in typical water-related activities.
• Usage Context: ISO 22810 timepieces are meant for everyday water exposure, while ISO 6425 pieces are built for extreme underwater environments where precision, durability, and reliability are of paramount importance.

 

Practical Implications of ISO 22810

ISO 22810 provides a level of assurance for consumers that their watches will hold up in wet or humid conditions. This includes:

• General Water Resistance: It can withstand swimming and snorkelling without fear of damage.
• Durability: It can withstand exposure to water during daily tasks, such as washing your hands or being caught in a puddle or rain shower.
• Saltwater Resistance: Many certified under ISO 22810 can resist the corrosive effects of saltwater, but this depends on the materials used in construction.

However, it’s essential for consumers to always check the water resistance rating of a specific timepiece, as not all models rated under ISO 22810 are suitable for all water activities.

For example, a 30 metre depth rating is fine for everyday splashes, but it is certainly not recommended for swimming or diving.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is It OK To Swim With A Watch?

Whether it’s OK to swim with a watch largely depends on the water resistance and the type of swimming you intend to do. This indicates how well it can withstand exposure to water.

This rating is usually expressed in metres or ATM (atmospheres), and different ratings indicate different levels of water resistance.

 

Swimming Style and Water Conditions

• Casual Swimming: If you're just doing some light swimming in a pool or the sea, a 50 metres depth rating or higher should be fine. Meanwhile, 100 metres or more are ideal for more serious swimmers or snorkelers.
• Diving or Deep Water Activities: If you plan to engage in scuba diving or other deep-water activities, you’ll need something that meets ISO 6425 standard for diving, with a depth rating of 200 metres or more. These watches are specifically designed to endure the higher pressures encountered underwater.
• Saltwater vs. Freshwater: If you’re swimming in saltwater, be cautious. Saltwater can be more corrosive and can damage seals, so you’ll want to ensure your timepiece is properly maintained. Novelties made from stainless steel, titanium, or ceramic are far more resistant to saltwater corrosion.

 

Wear and Tear

Even if your watch is rated for water resistance, it can still be affected by wear and tear over time. For example:

• Worn-out seals: The rubber or silicone gaskets that prevent water from entering may degrade over time, especially if exposed to heat, chlorine (in pools), or saltwater.
• Temperature changes: Sudden temperature fluctuations, such as moving from a hot pool into cold water, can cause seals to contract or expand, potentially leading to leaks.

If you own something that is older, it’s worth having the seals checked or replaced regularly (especially after a few years of use) to ensure continued water resistance.

 

Crown and Pushers

Watches that feature a screw-down crown (a crown that screws into the case) tend to offer better water resistance than those with a push-in crown. 

On the other hand, if it has pushers (used for chronograph functions, for example), make sure they are sealed properly, as they can be a potential point of entry for water. Always check the user manual to make sure it’s safe to submerge with pushers or crowns in use.

 

Chlorine in Pools

Chlorine can be harsh on the materials of a timepiece, particularly rubber or leather straps. While it won't necessarily damage the water resistance, chlorine may cause discolouration or deterioration of these materials over time. If you're swimming frequently in a chlorinated pool, it’s best to rinse with fresh water after each session.

 

Maintenance and Precautions

Even if your watch is rated for swimming, it’s important to perform some basic maintenance to maintain its water resistance:

• Regularly check seals: Over time, the gaskets can wear out. Therefore, it's a good idea to have them checked or replaced at least once every couple of years, especially if you swim often.
• Avoid extreme conditions: Don’t subject your possession to rapid temperature changes or high-impact activities while in water, as these can compromise its water resistance.

 

Final Verdict: Is It OK to Swim With a Watch?

• If it has a water resistance rating of 50 metres (5 ATM) or higher, you should be able to swim with it without issue. Always check the specific guidelines to ensure it’s suited to the type of swimming you plan to do.
• For anything rated lower than 50 metres (e.g., 30 metres), avoid swimming with it. These are generally intended for splash resistance or occasional exposure to water.
• Diving watches with ratings of 200 metres or more are specifically designed for underwater activities and are perfectly safe for scuba diving and other extreme conditions.

To sum up: Yes, it’s generally OK to swim with a watch, provided it has the appropriate water resistance rating. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you're using it within its intended water resistance capabilities.

 

How Do I Know If My Watch Is Waterproof?

That boils down to a number of factors such as depth rating. 

Make sure you check these steps;

1. Specifications: The most straightforward way is to look at the manual or product description. It should specify if it's water-resistant or waterproof and to what depth or pressure. Look for terms like “water-resistant,” “waterproof,” or specific measurements like "50m" or "100m."

 

2. Look for Markings: Many have water resistance info printed on the back of the case or the dial like;

• 50m (5 ATM): Can be used for light swimming or showering.
• 100m (10 ATM): Suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
• 200m (20 ATM) or more: Suitable for diving.

 

3. Contact the Manufacturer: If the markings or specifications aren't clear, you can contact the manufacturer to confirm the water resistance level.

 

4. Understand the Limitations: Even if it is water-resistant to a certain depth rating, it doesn’t mean it’s resistant to other factors like hot water or sudden temperature changes, which can damage seals.

 

5. Check for Seals and Gaskets: Timepieces designed for higher water resistance usually have tight seals and gaskets. These prevent water from entering the case, but over time, gaskets can wear out, so even waterproof watches can lose their resistance.

 

If you're unsure, it’s always best to avoid exposing it to water beyond the recommended depth to avoid damaging it. 

 

What Happens If A Watch Gets Wet?

In short, if a watch gets wet and it’s not water-resistant enough to handle the exposure, several things can happen:

1. Internal Damage: Water can seep inside, potentially damaging the movement, battery (if it's quartz), and other internal components. This can lead to malfunctioning or complete failure.
2. Rust and Corrosion: Water, especially salty water like seawater, can cause rust and corrosion to metal parts. Over time, this can damage the case, strap, and internal components.
3. Condensation or Fog: If moisture gets trapped inside, it can create condensation or fog on the dial or inside the glass. This can distort the appearance and damage the internal parts if left untreated.
4. Damage to the Seals: Constant exposure to water or poor sealing can weaken the rubber gaskets and seals that keep water out. Over time, it may lose its water resistance, even if it was once rated for a specific depth.
5. Strap Damage: Leather straps can absorb water, leading to warping, staining, and eventually breaking down. Even some fabric and rubber straps can degrade or stretch with prolonged exposure to water.

 

What to Do If Your Watch Gets Wet?

• Dry it Off: Immediately wipe it dry with a soft cloth to remove excess moisture.
• Leave it to Dry: If water penetrates inside, you can place it in a warm, dry area to allow any trapped moisture to evaporate. Don't use direct heat sources like a hairdryer, as that could cause irreparable damage.
• Get It Checked: If there are signs of water damage (like condensation inside the case), it’s important to have it checked by a professional. Water damage can worsen over time, so timely inspection is key.

If it is water-resistant rated, but you're unsure of how much water exposure it can handle, it’s a good idea to have it regularly checked for seal integrity, especially if you've noticed any moisture or condensation inside.

 

Can Regular Watches Get Wet?

It depends, especially those not specifically designed to be water-resistant, generally should not get wet. However, it depends on the design and how much exposure to water it's designed to handle.

 

Here's a breakdown of how different types of watches react to water:

1. Non-Water-Resistant Watches:
• Many dress or basic analog models, can suffer damage if they come in contact with water.
• Water can seep inside the case, damaging the movement, rusting internal components, and possibly causing fog or condensation inside the glass.
• They are usually more vulnerable to everyday moisture, like rain, sweat, or washing your hands, and should be kept dry.
2. Water-Resistant Watches:
• If labeled "water-resistant," it can handle certain levels of moisture, such as splashes or light rain. However, the degree of water resistance varies significantly between models. For example, a "30m" water-resistant timepiece can withstand light splashes but should not be submerged.
• The water resistance rating (e.g., 50m, 100m, etc.) indicates how much water pressure a timepiece can handle, meaning it can survive things like swimming or even diving at those levels.

 

What Happens To Regular Watches That Get Wet?

• Internal damage: Non-water-resistant pieces can get ruined internally if exposed to water, affecting the movement, battery, or the dial.
• Corrosion: Over time, water can rust metal components and cause irreparable damage.
• Fogging: Water inside the case can cause condensation, which may distort the dial and result in long-term damage if not addressed quickly.

 

Can You Be Sure About A Regular Watch’s Water Resistance?

To be sure, always check if it has been rated for any form of water resistance. If it doesn’t have a rating (or it's from an older collection with no clear specification), treat it as not water-resistant and avoid exposing it to moisture.

If it gets wet through no fault of your own, dry it as soon as possible and, if you're worried about water damage, take it to a retailer or jeweller for a thorough checkup.

 

Is It Ok To Wash A Watch?

It depends on what you have. Here's what to keep in mind when washing a watch:

 

1. Water-Resistant Watches:

• Yes, but with caution: If it’s water-resistant (e.g., 30m, 50m, or more), you can generally wash it with mild soap and water, especially if it has a metal, rubber, or plastic band. However, it's important to:
• Avoid using hot water: Hot water can affect seals, cause condensation, or warp materials like rubber.
• Use a soft cloth: When cleaning the case and band, use a soft cloth to avoid scratches.
• Dry thoroughly: After washing, dry it immediately with a soft towel to prevent moisture from seeping into the case or causing corrosion.

 

2. Leather Straps:

• Avoid washing: Leather straps are not water-resistant, so avoid exposing them to water. Water can damage leather, causing it to warp, discolor, or degrade over time.
• If the leather strap gets wet, gently wipe it off and let it air dry at room temperature (away from direct heat sources like radiators or hairdryers).

 

3. Fabric Or Rubber Straps:

• Safe to wash: If it is either a fabric or rubber strap, it’s generally safe to wash it with water and mild soap. Just be sure to dry the strap thoroughly after cleaning.

 

4. Watches Without Water Resistance:

• Avoid water entirely: If your timepiece isn't water-resistant (e.g., most dress pieces), do not wash it with water. Use a dry cloth to clean it and avoid exposing it to moisture.

Tips For Washing Or Cleaning Your Watch:

• Use mild soap: When washing, opt for mild soap or a gentle cleaner designed for watches or jewelry. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can damage the surface or finish.
• Don't immerse unless specified: If it has a specific depth rating (like "100m"), you can likely wash it under water, but it's still best to avoid submerging unless necessary.
• Avoid pressuring the buttons while wet: When it comes to buttons or crowns, make sure they are dry before pressing them underwater to prevent water from entering the case.

In summation, it's okay to wash a water-resistant watch carefully, but always take care to avoid exposing non-water-resistant ones or leather straps to moisture. 

 

Can I Clean My Watch With Wet Wipes?

Yes, you can clean your watch with wet wipes, but there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid potential damage:

1. Water-Resistant Watches:

• Generally safe: (especially those with metal, plastic, or rubber straps), using mild, alcohol-free wet wipes should be fine. Just make sure the wipe isn't too wet or soaked, as excess moisture could seep into areas like the crown or case back.
• Avoid alcohol-based wipes: Alcohol can damage the finish or leather straps, so opt for wipes that are alcohol-free or specifically made for cleaning items of this nature

2. Leather Straps:

• Avoid using wet wipes: Leather can be damaged by moisture, and using wet wipes may cause it to dry out, crack, or stain over time. For leather straps, it’s better to use a dry cloth or a cleaner made specifically for leather.

3. Fabric Straps:

• Be cautious: Fabric straps can absorb moisture, so using a slightly damp cloth (instead of wet wipes) might be a safer option. Wet wipes could leave moisture trapped in the fabric, potentially leading to odor or significant degradation.

4. Watches Without Water Resistance:

• Use dry wipes: For timepieces that aren’t rated for water resistance, it’s safer to avoid wet wipes altogether, as they could allow moisture to enter the case. Instead, use a dry, soft microfiber cloth to clean the surface.

 

How To Clean Your Watch With Wet Wipes:

• Test it first: If you're unsure about material or resistance, test the wet wipe on a miniscule, less noticeable area first.
• Dry afterwards: Always dry thoroughly, after using wet wipes to remove any lingering moisture.

 

Conclusion

You don’t have to be going to the deepest point on Earth to have a water-resistant watch, nor should you wear a dress watch when jumping off the dive board. 

These things take a little common sense. But your best bet is getting an everyday number like the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra or Breitling Navitimer that can aptly fight the elements.water.

LEARN MORE: Breitling Navitimer Releases New Limited Edition Watch Paying Tribute To The End of Boeing 747

In summary, understanding water resistance in watches is essential to ensuring its longevity and overall performance.

While many are designed to be water-resistant to varying degrees, it’s important to remember that it isn’t permanent; gaskets and seals wear out over time, requiring regular inspection and maintenance. 

It’s of paramount importance that the case, crystal, crown, and back are securely in place and properly sealed, especially after servicing, which is crucial for maintaining reliable resistance.

Whether dealing with light splashes or deep dives, knowing the capabilities and limitations of your timepieces will help you use it with confidence.

Simply, ensure you take good care and remember just how strong your materials and build quality is. If you want a brand that you know will stand the test of time, you should go to the most credible and reputable source. 

This ain’t a fish out of water… 

Are you looking to find the perfect waterproof watch? Chrono Hunter can help you find the timepiece of your deepest timekeeping desires. 

Whether purchase or sale, contact us here and let us work our magic to get you the watches at the most competitive prices. Be it buying or selling, our fantastic Trustpilot testimonials is more than enough evidence as to why we are the best! 

Don’t look anywhere else when you buy a watch or sell a watch. Just fill in our form with the details of the watches and let us provide the most seamless, secure buying and selling experience.

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Further Reading: 

Introducing: Omega Revamped Seamaster Ploprof 1200m “Summer Blue” With Vintage Specs

 

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