“A watch is NOT water resistant unless stated on the dial or case back. Watches which are not noted as water resistant should NOT be worn whilst washing hands, dishes or showering etc. Water Resistant Watches The notation of water resistance to a given depth (e.g. 30m, 50m, 100m) is based on the fact that the case has been designed to withstand a STATIC laboratory test to the stated depth for SHORT periods only. Most water resistant watches are NOT designed for prolonged and active use in water. The only watches designed to withstand these types of conditions are professional divers watches.”
3 BAR
WATER RESISTANT TO 30 METERS/3ATM/98FT
Suitable for everyday use. Will withstand accidental splashing but NOT suitable for swimming.
5 BAR
WATER RESISTANT TO 50 METERS/5ATM/164FT
Suitable for everyday use and swimming but NOT for poolside diving, snorkeling or water sports.
10 BAR
WATER RESISTANT TO 100 METERS/10ATM/328FT
Suitable for everyday use including swimming and snorkeling but NOT suitable for highboard diving or sub-aqua diving.
20 BAR
WATER RESISTANT TO 200 METERS/20ATM/663FT
Suitable for all high impact water sports and scuba diving at depths NOT requiring helium gas. At these depths however it is recommended that a professional divers water be purchased.
30/80/130 BAR
WATER RESISTANT TO 300/800/1300 METERS 30/80/130ATM/993/2648/4300FT
Suitable for all high impact water sports, scuba diving and saturation diving.
GENERAL POINTS
The figures quoted refer to STATIC pressure. The actual water pressure on the watch during use will be greater than the static pressure.
For instance, diving pressure on the watch is clearly greater at the impact point with the water during poolside diving.
Condensation can also be a problem. A sealed watch will pack up body warmth in water and this remains in the case. If the watch is then suddenly plunged into water that is some degrees colder, moisture can then be created within the watch and become visible as small droplets under the glass. This normally dissipates of its own accord once the watch is removed from the water, but this is not always the case.
The watch may then need to be returned to the watchmaker for inspection.
