Water Resistance Explained: How to Protect Your Watch

Water resistance is one of the most important features to understand when buying or wearing a watch. It’s not just about swimming or diving—it affects daily wear, maintenance, and the longevity of your timepiece. Here’s a guide to understanding water resistance and what it really means.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings

Water resistance is measured in meters (m), feet (ft), or atmospheres (ATM/bar). These ratings indicate the pressure a watch can withstand, not necessarily the depth you can dive to.

30 m / 3 ATM: Splash-proof or rain-resistant; not suitable for swimming.
50 m / 5 ATM: Can handle brief submersion, like showering or swimming in shallow water.
100 m / 10 ATM: Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and light water sports.
200 m+ / 20 ATM+: Ideal for diving and professional water activities.

Tip: Never assume water resistance is permanent—gaskets can degrade over time.

Types of Water-Resistant Watches

Daily Wear / Dress Watches: Usually 30–50 m; protection from splashes or rain.
Sports & Dive Watches: 100–300 m; robust construction with screw-down crowns and gaskets.
Professional Dive Watches: 500 m+; often ISO 6425 certified for deep diving.

Common Misconceptions

“50 m means you can swim 50 meters” – Not exactly; it’s a pressure rating tested under controlled conditions, not real-life swimming scenarios.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: No watch is completely waterproof; “water-resistant” is the accurate term.
Aging Components: Regular servicing is essential to maintain water resistance over time.

Tips for Protecting Your Watch

Avoid pressing buttons underwater unless the watch is designed for it.
Rinse watches exposed to saltwater with fresh water afterward.
Have gaskets checked during regular servicing, especially for dive watches.
Store watches in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Final Thoughts

Understanding water resistance is crucial for enjoying your watch safely and ensuring its longevity. By knowing the rating, taking care of seals, and using your watch appropriately, you can confidently wear it in a variety of everyday and recreational situations without risking damage.