30m, 50m, 100m... If you own a watch, chances are you've come across these markings. They indicate the water resistance on watches, and today we’ll dive into the specifics of each.
Waterproof vs. Water-resistant Watches
First, it’s important to note that “waterproof" is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but the Federal Trade Commission banned its use in advertising in the watch industry in the late 1960s. This was because no watch—or most other items, for that matter—can truly claim to be unharmed by water in all cases. At some point, and at some degree of water pressure, water will leak through a watch's intricate mechanics and cause damage.
While there are no truly waterproof watches, there are, however, water-resistant watches. Water resistance is a very real concept , and measures how much water pressure a watch can handle. This measurement is important to know for the proper care and keeping of your watch.
What Makes a Watch Water-Resistant?
One of a watch’s primary defenses against water is its gasket, which seals the entryways to the watch's core and protects it up to certain pressure levels. Gaskets look like small rings or strips, and they’re typically made from resilient materials like rubber, silicone, or plastic.
How Do I Know if My Watch is Water-Resistant?
To determine the water resistance rating of your watch, it’s best to consult your watch’s manual. Typically, it’s listed among other helpful facts and features pertaining to your watch. Additionally, many watches prominently display their water resistance rating on the dial or have it engraved on the case back for easy reference.
If you don’t have your watch’s manual handy and are unable to locate the water-resistance rating on the watch itself, you can always visit the watch's product page on timex.com. There, you can find the water resistance rating in the Specifications dropdown on the right side of the screen, pictured below.
Explaining Different Water-Resistance Ratings
Timex watches feature various levels of water resistance, ranging from 30 meters to 200 meters. While we only carry diver-inspired watches that have a 200m water-resistance rating —many of which are found in our Harborside, Waterbury, and Navi collections— it's worth noting that there are authentic dive watches on the market boasting 300 meters of water resistance. Though we don’t currently carry those types of watches, we’ll be covering them below. Now, let's break down what those water resistance ratings mean.
Important to note: Unless you have a true dive watch with a water resistance rating of 300m, it's important to avoid pulling out the crown or pressing buttons underwater to maintain water resistance.
- 30 meters: This rating is like your watch’s raincoat, perfect for handling splashes while you wash your hands, but not quite ready for a swim. Don't test its stroke; it's more of a landlubber.
- 50 meters: Think of this rating as your watch's swimsuit, perfect for a dip in the pool or a casual swim at the beach. However, it doesn’t come with a board or flippers – so leave the surfing and diving to others.
- 100 meters: This rating is your watch's snorkeling gear, great for exploring underwater, but just make sure you stay in the shallow end.
- 200 meters: At this rating, your watch is ready for more adventurous underwater activities like recreational scuba diving.
- 300 meters: With a 300m water resistance rating, your watch is a fearless diver, equipped to handle deep-sea exploration. You're free to press those buttons underwater and dive into the depths with confidence.
Understanding water resistance is essential for preserving your watch's longevity. So, whether it's a casual swim or deep-sea dive, remember to choose the right watch for your adventures.
Tips to Keep in Mind
- Using watches in ways that exceed their water resistance limit can cause damage.
- Salt water can harm watches, so be sure to rinse your water-resistant watch with fresh water after exposure to it.
- Bear in mind that water-resistant watches from Timex are not certified diver watches.
Our Favorite Diver-Inspired Watches:
Tiburón Automatic 44mm Synthetic Rubber Strap Watch – 200m WR
Navi XL 41mm Leather Strap Watch – 100m WR
Harborside Coast 43mm Synthetic Rubber Strap Watch – 100m WR
Waterbury Dive 41mm Synthetic Rubber Strap Watch – 100m WR
Expedition North® Freedive Ocean #tide Fabric Strap Watch – 50m WR
Key Takeaway
Understanding the water resistance rating of your watch is crucial for keeping it ticking for years to come. While terms like "waterproof" are no longer used in the industry, water resistance ratings provide insight into a watch's ability to withstand water pressure. Now that you know the basics of water resistance in timepieces, enjoy the activities you love—such as boating, swimming, or snorkeling—with peace of mind.
