Understanding Water Resistance in Watches: How Much Is Enough for Swimming?
When purchasing a watch, you’ll encounter water resistance ratings[/c
Understanding Water Resistance in Watches: How Much Is Enough for Swimming?
When purchasing a watch, you’ll encounter water resistance ratings such as 30 meters, 50 meters, 100 meters, and 300 meters. These figures guide the appropriate use of your watch, with manufacturers using water resistance testing equipment to assign these levels based on static pressure tests.
High-end Swiss brands like Rolex often perform individual testing to ensure product quality, typically exceeding the stated water resistance by 25%. For instance, a watch rated for 100 meters might actually withstand up to 125 meters, setting a higher standard than many competitors.
30 meters and 50 meters ratings are quite similar and considered entry-level in the watchmaking industry, often referred to as “splash resistant.” They can withstand daily water exposure like rain or handwashing but are not suitable for swimming. On the other hand, watches with 100 meters of water resistance are suitable for swimming, though diving requires a watch rated at 300 meters.
The higher the water resistance rating, the more valuable the watch typically is. Achieving a high water resistance level is a significant challenge for watch manufacturers, many of whom produce such watches to showcase their prowess. The Shenzhen watch market, for example, offers a wide selection of water-resistant watches to choose from.
Maintaining water resistance primarily depends on the rubber seals at the back of the watch case. Dive watches, in particular, require maintenance every 4-5 years, with the replacement of these seals being crucial. Therefore, before diving into the water, it’s essential to check your watch’s water resistance rating to determine its suitability for your planned activities.
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