Basics of Buying Watches: Waterproof and Water-Resistant

via: flickr.com/guysie

Some people have asked me what is the difference between a "waterproof" watch and a "water-resistant" one.  Truth to be told, there is actually little difference despite what others may claim.  Waterproof was initially coined to describe a watch that prevented water from penetrating its casing under normal everyday usage conditions.

However, since the late 1960s, the term "waterproof" was put to an end by various government organisations, such as the US Federal Trade Commission.  The reason for this was that the word waterproof was found to be misleading, as in the products that were labeled and advertised as waterproof were not actually 100% well, waterproof.  That is to say, the seals of watch casings meant for keeping out water were not entirely impermeable.  Furthermore, the effectiveness of the seals would diminish over time through age, wear and tear as well as exposure to chemicals.

Therefore, many watches today are labeled as water-resistant and will specify its depth rating in meters or feet.  This practice has been issued by the International Organization for Standardization, which many countries have adopted, thus forbidding the term "waterproof" to be used with watches.

However, just because watches are water-resistant to depths of over a hundred meters does not mean you should wear it in the bath or shower.  Water resistance means it can prevent the entry of water under the depth pressure it was tested in, under laboratory conditions.  Water-resistance does not factor in high water temperatures (higher than body temperature), since most of these watches were created for and tested in  cold water, hence the heat will severely damage the seals of the watch.  Additionally, sharp changes in water pressure from activities such as swimming on the surface, may adversely affect your watch too.  Moreover, sudden changes in water temperature, going from hot to cold water or vice-versa, may cause the rubber seals to contract, allowing for water to seep in. Finally, soap can also damage your watch as it accumulates in the small joints and can slowly deteriorate the metals outside.

So, please people, I once again implore you, do not wear your watches when showering or bathing unless you want to damage your watch.