What “water resistance” actually means

Water resistance ratings on watches (often shown in meters or ATM) are laboratory measurements that indicate how well a watch resists water ingress under specific conditions. They are not literal depth guarantees for everyday use — they’re best read as guidance for which activities are safe:

• 30m / 3 ATM: Splash/rain resistance. OK for hand-washing, not for submersion.
• 50m / 5 ATM: Light water exposure, usually safe for surface splashes and brief submersion; not recommended for swimming.
• 100m / 10 ATM: Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and surface water sports.
• 200m+ / 20 ATM and dive-rated watches: Designed for diving and high-pressure underwater use (follow ISO dive-watch guidance for actual diving).

Manufacturers’ use of meters can be confusing — a 50m stamp does not mean the watch is safe to go 50 meters underwater during real-world activity. Movement, temperature, and aging seals change performance.

Shower vs. Swim: Why they’re different

Although a shower feels like "just water," it introduces factors that stress seals:

• Hot water and steam: Heat expands materials and can temporarily reduce seal effectiveness.
• Soaps, shampoos and body wash: Chemicals and surfactants can degrade gaskets and seals over time.
• High-pressure jets: Shower heads can generate localized high pressure that a rating didn’t account for.

For those reasons, many watchmakers recommend avoiding showers even if your watch is rated 100m.

Practical guidance — what to do

1. Swimming: If your watch is rated 100m (10 ATM) or higher, it’s generally safe for swimming and snorkeling. Rinse with fresh water after salt or pool exposure.
2. Showering: Avoid it if possible. Hot water, soap, and steam shorten gasket life and increase the risk of moisture ingress over time.
3. Under 50m: Keep to hand-washing and accidental splashes only. No swimming, please.
4. Pressing controls: Never operate the crown, pushers or rotating bezels underwater unless the watch is explicitly designed for that (e.g., a dedicated dive chronograph with manufacturer instructions).
5. Maintenance: Have seals checked and pressure-tested by a qualified service center every 1–3 years (or sooner if the watch takes a knock or you frequently expose it to water).

How to keep your watch water-resistant longer

• Rinse in fresh water after salt or chlorinated water exposure and dry with a soft cloth.
• Keep crowns screwed down (if applicable) and avoid unscrewing them near water.
• Service gaskets and seals periodically — rubber and synthetic parts age and crack.
• Avoid strong chemicals (perfumes, solvents) which can damage seals and case finishes.

“Watches should be pressure tested every 6 months if you're actively using it for diving (seawater will cause quicker degradation).  Otherwise, a pressure test once a year is a good precaution (a good watch should maintain its water resistance for years)” - Brigade Watches

What to do if water gets inside

If you spot fogging under the crystal or actual liquid inside the case:

• Stop wearing it immediately.
• Do not press buttons or operate the crown.
• Take it to a professional watchmaker or authorized service center for inspection and repair — internal moisture can quickly damage movement parts.

Simple checklist before you go in the water

• Check the water-resistance rating (100m+ for swimming).
• Crown is fully screwed down and pushers are not being used underwater.
• Seals were checked within the last 1–3 years if you use the watch in water often.
• Avoid hot showers and saunas even if the watch is rated for swimming.