One of the most frequently asked questions within the watch industry is: can watches be waterproof? Collectors worldwide are constantly searching for the perfect timepiece that can be worn all the time and for any occasion. One of the major factors that many look for in watches is the water resistance, or waterproof, rating. However, this can often be more complicated than it may seem. The ratings can be misleading, so it is important to know how the rating system works. Accidental water damage can wreak havoc on a timepiece, therefore it is vital that a watch collector understands how the water resistance rating system works. If you have always wondered: can watches be waterproof, keep reading for an explanation and some recommendations.
So, Can Watches Be Waterproof?
To put it simply, no watch can be 100% waterproof. When discussing watches, the phrase that is most often used by manufacturers is ‘water resistant’. The phrase ‘waterproof’ suggests that a watch is entirely impenetrable and could never be damaged by contact with water. This is very unlikely and hard to come by in the horological market. All watches are susceptible to ageing and will also be negatively affected by extreme conditions. Both of these processes will cause the seals in the watch to deteriorate which will then compromise the water resistance. In order to avoid this, a watch should be regularly serviced. This is recommended as during a service, the seals can be examined and repaired to try and maintain the water resistance of the timepiece.
What Do the Water Resistance Ratings Mean?
Water resistance can be impacted by a range of things and the ratings are not always what they seem. Most watches are tested in a workshop or laboratory without actual water. They tend to be exposed to an immense amount of external air pressure in a dry and static environment to check for leaks. However, when worn in real-life conditions watches may not react in the same way. Moving a watch in and out of the water repeatedly, or having the timepiece change in temperature quickly, can have a negative impact on the seals. Due to this, it is important that a collector has a good understanding of the meanings of water resistance ratings. This will allow individuals to select the timepiece that is most appropriate for their lifestyle.
3 Bar / 30 Metres
This is the lowest water resistance rating. Despite its name, it does not actually mean that the watch can be worn to a depth of 30 metres. Watches with this rating are tolerant of accidental splashes. They could be worn in the shower, although this is not always recommended. The 3 bar water resistance rating is the most common and is often found on fashion watches.
5 Bar / 50 Metres
A watch that is water resistant up to 5 bar will be resistant to splashes and showers. These timepieces may also be worn for gentle swimming that does not involve the watch meeting the water with any impact. These models are certainly not suited to any water sports or diving. They will be fine in a pool, but should not be worn in moving water such as a jacuzzi.
10 Bar / 100 Metres
A rating of up to 10 bar means that a watch can be worn for swimming and snorkelling. This kind of watch may be well suited to holidays or those people who like to relax in a pool. These watches are still not suited to diving. However, a lot more water sports do become available with a rating of 100 metres. This rating is great for people who do not want to have to worry about their wristwatch around water but know that it will not be worn for any diving or extreme water sports.
20 Bar / 200 Metres Plus
Watches that have been given a water resistance rating of 20 bar or more can safely be worn for swimming, high-impact water sports and scuba diving. This gives the wearer far more flexibility when wearing their timepiece. These watches are brilliant for people who enjoy diving as a hobby and may be suitable for some professional divers. Despite this reassurance, to guarantee this protection watch should still be regularly serviced and drastic temperature changes should certainly be avoided.
100 Bar / 1000 Metres
This incredibly high rating is very rare in the mainstream watch market. It is usually only required by truly professional divers such as those in the military. These models are finely tuned, expert tools that will only be necessary for very specialist purposes. They often tend to be large watches with very thick cases to protect the movement. Additionally, the watches will have thick sapphire glass. Watches with a water resistance rating of up to 100 ba are designed to withstand very high external pressures.
Recommendations for Watches With a High Water Resistance
RADO Captain Cook Automatic Chronograph 43mm Set Black R32145158
The RADO Captain Cook watches are some of the most iconic timepieces on the market. These watches have a very versatile design that makes the suitable for sports, swimming and formal wear. This model is water resistant up to 30 bar, meaning that it can be worn for most water sports and diving activities. This watch features a chronograph dial with two sub-dials, ensuring that the wearer has all of the information they may need.
The dial exhibits a gradient design that changes from white to black as it approaches the outer edges. A black ceramic bezel frames the dial and a stainless steel case surrounds it. This case also houses the automatic movement that powers the watch. This model comes with three straps so it can be adjusted to suit any occasion. The straps provided are a classic stainless steel bracelet, an elegant brown leather strap and a practical black fabric strap.
LONGINES HydroConquest Automatic 39mm Blue Rubber Strap L37804969
The Longines HydroConquest collection was developed as part of the brand’s sports range. Longines has a history of producing timepieces for extreme sports, meaning that their watches have a history of durability and reliability. This timepiece exhibits a blue dial with large indices that will be easy to read underwater. These hour markers are accompanied by silver hour, minute and second hands alongside a date display. The blue bezel that frames the dial is made from ceramic. This is a very desirable material in watchmaking due to its robust nature. This timepiece is powered by an automatic movement that provides up to 72 hours of power reserve. This means that the wearer should never be caught unawares. The watch is secured on the wrist using a blue rubber strap. Rubber straps are a popular choice in diving watches as they remain very comfortable to wear, even when wet.
Tissot Seastar 2000 | Powermatic 80 | Blue Silicone T1206073704100
The Tissot Seastar 2000 is named for its impressive water resistance. This watch is water resistant up to 60 bar, or 600 metres. This makes it a brilliant choice for someone who is looking for a timepiece that can be worn for diving and water sports. The watch exhibits a blue dial that is detailed with a wave-inspired texture. The dial also features luminous hour markers and silver hands that are detailed with luminous inserts. The black ceramic bezel is unidirectional, making it practical and functional for divers. The black stainless steel case measures 46mm in diameter, creating a bold look on the wrist. It houses the automatic movement that powers the watch. The design of this timepiece is completed with a blue silicone strap that will be comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
What did you make of our answer to the question: can watches be waterproof? Are you searching for a new water-resistant watch? Let us know in the comments!
