4 Types of Water Resistance Tests That Are Performed on Waterproof Watches
Waterproof watches remain unaffected when they come in contact with water or moisture. The credibility of waterproof watches depends on their ability of water resistance which can be tested in many ways.
If you are looking for ways to keep your waterproof watch safe and running, you found the right spot. Let’s latch on to the types and processes of water resistance tests enlisted in this article.
What is a Water Resistant Test?
A water resistance test is a process of exerting pressure on the watch to determine how much pressure it can withstand.
Such tests reveal the potential of the waterproof watch and its capacity for water resistance.
Types of Water Resistant Tests
There are numerous water resistance tests available but they are broadly classified into 4 categories.
Dry Test
A dry test, also known as the “Air test”, is done through a vacuum tester. It shows the warping or contortion of crystals in the vacuum chamber. This test is not considered very accurate because it does not involve water or moisture to test the watch.
But it is a safer water resistance test to perform on the waterproof watch.
Wet Test
The wet test is done through a pressure tester. A chamber is pressurized and the watch to be tested is placed into water. The chamber then is depressurized which causes the watch to submerge into the water.
Any leakage in the watch can be seen as air escaping in the form of bubbles. The wet test is considered the most accurate water resistance test but is also risky. If it is not done right, it can lead to water entering the watch.
Condensation Test
It is an additional test, preceding the Wet test, to be performed on waterproof watches. The watch is heated to a maximum of 113 Fahrenheit and an iced-cold water drop is placed on the watch crystal.
As a result, if mist forms inside the crystal, condensation test reveals the presence of water or moisture that could have entered the watch during the wet test.
Pressure Resistance Test
This test is performed on waterproof watches to ensure whether they have a 100m capacity of water resistance or not. During a pressure resistance test, a battery is placed on the top of a waterproof watch to see if any leakage happens under maximum water pressure.
Diving watches are most likely to undertake pressure resistance tests to check their durability in high water pressure in advance.
How to Measure Water Resistance Capacity?
Water resistance capacity is the ability of an instrument to withstand a specific amount of water pressure. There are 3 ways to measure and express the water resistance capacity of a waterproof watch i.e. ATM, BAR, METER (m).
1ATM=10m
1BAR=10m
A waterproof watch of 10ATM (100m) is suitable for use in swimming and a watch of 20ATM (200m) is suitable for diving.
How often water resistance tests should be performed on a waterproof watch?
Typically water resistance tests should be performed once a year. But it also depends on how and how often the watch is being used.
Can water resistance tests be performed at home?
Yes, only if you have the skill and appropriate apparatus needed to perform water resistance tests. It is recommended to let the professionals do the job in labs.
Do water resistance tests cause damage to the watch?
Water resistance tests are performed under safe circumstances by skilled professionals. There is a very less likely chance of damage in case the water enters the watch during one of the wet tests. Overall, water resistance tests are safe if done properly.
Final Verdict!
Water resistance tests prove the reliability of a waterproof watch to help you make a better pick. If you get the tests done after a certain span of time, it will be beneficial. The sensitivity and proper function of waterproof watches depend on water resistance tests.
That is why it is always better to get the watches checked before you begin any activity involving water which may cause long-term harm to the watch.