3 min read

Waterproof watch: Understanding the waterproofness of your watch

Is my watch waterproof? Can I swim with it? Between the markings ATM, Waterproof, or simply "waterproof watch"It can seem difficult to know the water resistance of your watch and whether you can swim with it or simply wash your hands. Team Charlie Paris" will reveal to you the different concepts of waterproofing to best protect your watch.

Waterproof watch: definition and levels

In watchmaking, water resistance refers to a watch's ability to withstand water pressure. It is often expressed in meters (m), feet (ft), or atmospheres (ATM), a unit that measures pressure. Contrary to what one might think, a watch marked "30 meters" is not necessarily suitable for immersion at that depth. This is a theoretical measurement performed in a laboratory, without taking into account movement or temperature variations.

If your watch does not have any water resistance rating, avoid all contact with water. This means that the Case is not designed to withstand moisture, and the mechanism could quickly be damaged.

What do the different sealing values mean?

Here's how to interpret the most frequent indications:

3 ATM (30 meters) : Your watch can withstand splashes, rain, or a quick hand wash.
5 ATM (50 meters) : It can be worn for occasional swimming in calm water. However, avoid diving or strenuous activities that could cause overpressure.
10 ATM (100 meters) : A much more durable watch, perfect for regular swimming or gentle water sports. You can dive moderately, but be careful of temperature changes.
30 ATM (300 meters) : These are professional diving watches, capable of withstanding high underwater pressure. They are designed for scuba diving and extreme environments.

How to take care of your waterproof watch?

Regardless of the level of water resistance of your watch, certain precautions remain essential to ensure its longevity.

Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as plunging into cold water after prolonged sun exposure. This type of thermal shock can damage the seals and promote condensation. Furthermore, condensation under the crystal is often a sign of a problem with the water resistance. It is therefore important to have your watch checked by a watchmaker without delay.

Finally, remember to have the water resistance tested regularly: every 3 to 5 years for occasional use, and every year if you often wear your watch in water.

Waterproof watches by Charlie Paris

Now that you have a better understanding of the water resistance ratings for your watch, here is a brief summary of our watches based on their water resistance:

At Charlie Paris, all our watches have a minimum water resistance of 3 ATM, guaranteeing you protection against splashes and worry-free daily use.

3 & 5 ATM : Elegance and practicality for everyday use
OUR collections Horizon, Available in 39mm and 40mm versions, this chronograph combines minimalist design and quartz precision in a... Case Refined, ideal for everyday use.
10 ATM : Robustness and versatility
Designed for those seeking a watch that is as elegant as it is high-performing, the collection Aurore, Available in quartz and automatic versions, it offers 10 ATM water resistance, making it suitable for everyday wear, even for occasional water sports. GR collection, Designed for men seeking a sporty and functional timepiece, it also benefits from 10 ATM water resistance.
30 ATM : Limitless exploration
Designed for adventurers and diving enthusiasts, the collection Concordia This is our most waterproof watch with a resistance of 30 ATM. A true instrument of exploration, it is designed to face the most extreme environments while maintaining the elegance characteristic of Charlie Paris.