Water Resistant Ratings of Watches

Almost everyone who wears watches has noticed (usually in original watches), that there is a “water resistant” letter on the back of the watches and they are rated with ATM. Each watch has different levels of water resistance. Thanks to this guide we have prepared, we will answer the question “What is 3 ATM water resistance?” “What is 5 ATM water resistance?” You will find answers to your questions and you will learn where you can use the watch you will buy.

One of the most common complaints we receive is that the watch the person bought is waterproof. They say that they usually buy the watch because it is waterproof, the seller guarantees it, but even in the shower, it gets water while using it. Unfortunately, not all watches are waterproof.

In fact, every watch (original watches) guarantees a certain degree of water resistance. However, you cannot use a watch with a water resistance rating of 3 ATM at sea. You will find everything you need to know about water resistance, thanks to this guide for the waterproof rating of wristwatches.

Every watch has a rating that determines its ability to withstand pressure underwater. This rating is denoted by the “Atmoster” (ATM). Unfortunately, most watch users care more about the aesthetic than the technical competence of the watch they buy. However, technical durability is just as important as aesthetics. So our research is usually on beauty, when we read or hear the word water resistant, we don’t do any further research.

The word durability is actually a very open-ended word and does not guarantee anything. Especially when it comes to waterproofing. Regardless, the truth is that no wristwatch is waterproof. However, when promoting their watches, brands especially emphasize the “waterproof” feature, and the seller constantly emphasizes this detail. The waterproof resistance of watches actually depends on their ability to withstand a certain level of pressure underwater.

The term atmosphere (ATM) is a unit used by the watch industry to determine the amount of force a watch can withstand. The pressure at sea level is 1 ATM and corresponds to approximately 10 meters. Every 10 meters, the pressure increases by 1 ATM.

The first thing watch users should determine before buying watch is to determine the level of water resistance that their watch should ideally have. For example, if you are a professional swimmer or an ordinary swimmer enjoying the pool, you should determine the resistance of the watch you will buy accordingly. 

Diver watches are designed to withstand sudden changes in pressure and depth and pressure of at least 100 meters. This is a great feature for the watch enthusiast diver. However, if you just want a sports to watch that you don’t want to take off from your wrist even in the shower, a watch with a rating of 5 ATM will suffice. Let’s look at the water resistance ratings of wristwatches and look for answers to questions such as what is 3 ATM water resistance? So you can find the most suitable waterproof watch for you.

What Does 3 ATM (30 meters) Waterproof Mean? What can be done?

3 ATM is the lowest pressure rating used in wristwatches. These graded watches are the most vulnerable to water. In our country, the water coming out of the tap water flows with an average pressure of 8 ATM. Therefore, you should keep your watch, which has a water resistance rating of 3 ATM, away from water as much as possible. You must ensure that it does not come into contact with water in any way.

Watches of this degree have a risk of getting water even in heavy rain. In general, brands guarantee these watches only when washing hands and face.

What Does 5 ATM (50 meters) Waterproof Mean? What can be done?

When your watch has a waterproof rating of 5 ATM, it means it can withstand 50 meters of atmospheric pressure. This means that you can use a watch with a resistance of 5 ATM in the pool and shower in addition to 3 ATMs. Regardless, you should avoid activities that put too much pressure on your watch. Jumping into the pool from a high place may not be good for your 5 ATM clock.

You can use a watch with a water resistance rating of 5 ATM in the shower and swim in shallow waters. Watches at this level are ideal for those who like to enjoy the water outdoors rather than hard water sports.

What Does 10 ATM (100 meters) Waterproof Mean? What can be done?

A 10 ATM rating makes your watch ten times more resistant to atmospheric pressure at sea level. You can do much more than ordinary swimming with a wristwatch that can withstand 100 meters of water pressure. The static pressure of 10 ATM provides a great advantage for underwater use, however, it is not a diver’s watch and is affected by sudden pressure changes after a certain point.

10 ATM is the ideal rating for casual sporting activities. Watches in this rating are useful for swimming, snorkeling or any water activity where you don’t need to go very deep.

What Does 20 ATM (200 meters) Waterproof Mean? What can be done?

Water resistance ratings of 20 ATM and above make it a professional diver’s instrument, no longer an ordinary wristwatch. You can easily do such impressive water sports. If you are constantly engaged in high-level water sports or diving professionally or as an amateur, it is important to use a professional diver’s watch that is suitable for your occupation.

What Does 50 ATM (500 meters) Waterproof Mean? What can be done?

The 50 ATM level represents tremendous depth, and certain brands are quite good at making watches to withstand this level of resistance. At these levels, the watch is exposed not only to water pressure, but also to severe shocks, magnetic fields, and saltwater tolerance. The most distinctive feature of diver’s watches that will withstand this level of pressure is the helium escape valve. This feature allows you to dive to great depths and participate in almost any activity underwater with your watch. These watches have been developed specifically for mixed gas diving.

With the help of the guide we have prepared, you can choose the model with the waterproof degree that suits your needs when you buy a watch.

You can also review our website for the Best Watch Brands.