1. What is Water Resistance in Watches?

Water-resistant watches are designed to withstand a certain amount of water exposure without allowing moisture to enter the watch case and damage the internal components. The level of water resistance is often marked on the watch (in meters, atmospheres (ATM), or bar) and indicates how much pressure the watch can handle.

For example:

30 meters (3 ATM): Splash-resistant; suitable for occasional splashes, like washing hands.

50 meters (5 ATM): Suitable for light swimming, but not diving.

100 meters (10 ATM): Suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

200 meters or more: Suitable for professional water sports, including diving.

2. Water Resistance Testing:

Water resistance testing is the process of ensuring that a watch still maintains its ability to withstand water exposure. This test checks if the seals and gaskets are functioning correctly and ensures the watch can handle the level of water exposure it’s rated for.

Types of Water Resistance Testing:

Pressure Testing: The most common method for testing water resistance is pressure testing, often done in specialized equipment that simulates the pressure at different depths. The watch is placed in a chamber where air pressure is increased to simulate water pressure at various depths.

Dry Testing: The watch is placed in a machine where pressure is applied without immersing it in water. This helps detect any leaks or issues with the seals or case.

Wet Testing: The watch is submerged in water under controlled conditions, and the pressure is increased to check if the watch case can handle the pressure without leaking.

Visual Inspection: A jeweler or watch technician may also visually inspect the seals, gaskets, and caseback of the watch to check for signs of wear or damage. Damaged seals or gaskets can compromise the water resistance of the watch.

Why Water Resistance Testing is Important:

Prevent Water Damage: If your watch’s seals or gaskets have degraded over time, moisture could enter the case and damage the internal mechanisms, causing rust or malfunction.

Peace of Mind: If you’re planning to swim, dive, or wear your watch in a wet environment, it’s essential to know that it’s still water-resistant.

Regular Monitoring: Even if your watch is rated for a high level of water resistance, seals and gaskets can deteriorate with use, so testing ensures the watch continues to meet its water resistance standards.

When to Get Water Resistance Testing:

After Battery Replacement: If the back of the watch is opened for battery replacement, the seals may be disturbed, compromising the water resistance. It’s advisable to have the watch pressure-tested after a battery change.

After Watch Service or Repair: If the watch undergoes any maintenance, such as a case opening, gasket replacement, or other repairs, water resistance testing should be done to ensure the integrity of the seals.

Periodically (Every 1-2 Years): Over time, even without obvious damage, seals and gaskets can wear out due to age, exposure to moisture, or changes in temperature. Periodic testing every 1-2 years is a good practice for high-end or frequently worn watches.

3. Water Resistance Maintenance:

Water resistance maintenance refers to the care and servicing of the components in your watch that contribute to keeping it water-resistant. These include the seals, gaskets, and caseback, all of which prevent water from entering the watch’s interior.

Maintenance Practices:

Seals and Gaskets Replacement: Seals and gaskets are designed to degrade over time due to environmental factors like heat, humidity, or wear. If your watch is used regularly in water, the seals should be replaced during routine maintenance (typically every 1-2 years, depending on usage).

Caseback Inspection: The caseback of the watch is another area that can wear down, allowing water to seep in. During regular maintenance, the technician will inspect the caseback to ensure it is sealed correctly and not compromised.

Crown and Pushers: The crown (the knob used to set the time) and any pushers (for chronograph functions) often have seals that prevent water from entering. These seals should also be inspected and maintained to ensure water resistance.

Additional Maintenance Tips:

Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature changes can cause seals and gaskets to shrink or expand, which may weaken their effectiveness in keeping water out.

Regularly Clean the Watch: Dirt, oils, and salts from sweat or seawater can accumulate around the crown, pushers, and caseback, potentially affecting the seals. Regularly clean your watch with a soft cloth or gentle water (avoiding soap or harsh chemicals) to prevent build-up around sensitive areas.

Check for Damage: Always visually inspect the case, crown, and pushers for any visible cracks, scratches, or signs of wear. If you notice any, it’s best to have your watch serviced to prevent water damage.

When to Perform Water Resistance Maintenance:

When You Notice Issues with Seals: If you notice your watch is fogging up or experiencing moisture inside the case (like condensation), it's a clear sign that the seals need attention or replacement.

After a Dive or Exposure to Water: If you regularly wear your watch while diving or swimming, it’s important to periodically check the water resistance as part of routine maintenance.

Annual Servicing: Even if your watch doesn’t show visible signs of wear, annual or bi-annual servicing can help ensure that everything is in proper working order, including water resistance.

4. Common Water Resistance Issues:

Worn-Out Seals: Over time, gaskets and seals that prevent water from entering your watch can degrade, making them less effective. This is particularly common in watches that are exposed to sweat, heat, or saltwater regularly.

Damaged Crown: The crown or pushers, if damaged or worn down, can also compromise water resistance. If they no longer screw in properly or if there's visible damage, it’s time for maintenance.

Temperature Fluctuations: Rapid changes in temperature can cause the watch's seals to expand and contract, potentially leading to leaks. For example, jumping from a hot environment to a cold pool or ocean can create condensation inside the watch if the seals are not in top condition.

5. Benefits of Regular Water Resistance Testing and Maintenance:

Prevents Expensive Damage: Preventing water from entering your watch can save you from costly repairs, such as rusted mechanisms or ruined electronics.

Ensures Accurate Functioning: Maintaining water resistance helps keep the internal components of the watch working as intended, preserving both its accuracy and longevity.

Preserves Value: Regular testing and maintenance preserve the watch’s functionality and appearance, which is especially important for high-end or luxury watches.

Peace of Mind: If you rely on your watch for underwater activities, knowing that it is properly maintained gives you confidence that it will perform as expected.

Conclusion:

Water resistance testing and maintenance are vital services for ensuring that your watch continues to perform well, especially if it’s regularly exposed to water. Regular testing helps you catch any issues with seals or gaskets before they cause damage, while maintenance ensures that the watch remains sealed and protected from moisture.

If you regularly wear your watch around water—whether for swimming, diving, or daily wear—it's a good idea to have your watch pressure-tested and serviced every 1-2 years to keep its water resistance intact.

Do you have a watch that requires water resistance testing or maintenance? It’s always worth checking to avoid any potential water-related damage!