Watch Water Resistance: 50m vs 100m & Crowns
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Watch Water Resistance: 50m vs 100m & Crowns

By sc16 · May 11, 2019 · 19 replies
sc16
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
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Sc16's post delves into a common point of confusion for many watch enthusiasts: the practical implications of water resistance ratings, especially concerning screw-down versus push-pull crowns. His experience with an AD's advice contradicting a watch's 100m rating highlights the need for clear, accessible information on what these specifications truly mean for daily wear and recreational activities. This discussion offers valuable insights into navigating manufacturer claims and real-world usage.

of a watch.

I need, yes need, to get a better understanding of water resistance of watches and specifically screw down crown vs non screw down crown and 50 mtr and 100 mtr.

I wanted a every day watch that i could take with me in the pool, perhaps a couple of breast strokes, and play a bit around with with no fear of water getting in the watch. 
Nautilus seemed to be perfect with 120 water resistance and my understanding is that the case construction is as such that the water pressure tightens the watch even more, but please correct me if I am wrong. 

Nevertheless, considering the prices currently being commanded, that was not an option. So I started growing an interest in the JLC Geophysic 1958 and waited for a full set to show against a good price. Found one, but then noticed that the Seiko presage spb069 also had a water resistance of 100 mtr which was same as the 1958. I was able to source a seiko SPB 069 and bought one recently, new from an AD - yes, I am aware that the watches currently mentioned are not in the same league, but I am summarizing the story so you don't lose interest.

But here it comes, i had this idea to put the Seiko on a white rubber strap and make it my summer watch which I can wear with shorts, and play around with in the pool, considering 100 mtr water resistance. However, when I went to a store that sold both custom strap and Seiko (AD), they told me that the watch is not made to be worn in the pool, because it doesn't have a screw down crown. My understanding is that the 1958 also doesn't have a screw down crown - no idea about the naughty nauti.

Btw, still bought the rubber strap, but somewhere else...

I can't get my head around the fact why i wouldn't be able to sit in the pool, do a couple of breast strokes with my SPB069 that has a 100 mtr water resistance - is the screw down so necessary? If so, then why does the UN torpilleur that Nico recently pointed out has a water resistance of 50 mtr with a screw down crown.
Is it the case construction...? 
I understand water pressure of the watch hitting the water and there is a risk of the crown being pulled out because of that, but still...why 100 mtr water resistance...make it 50 then to be sure.

Now, I am not a technical person, so as Nicholas Cage said in a movie..explain it to me like I am a five year old.

I think the rubber strap looks great on the SPB069 and it carries it very well, but I need to understand this water resistance...
Thank you in advance for your patience!

KR,
Sc16

 











Before pic, but everyone knows it...




About the Seiko Seiko Presage Ref. SPB069

The Seiko Presage SPB069 is a limited edition model within the Presage line, distinguished by its blue enamel dial. This reference was part of a series that showcased traditional Japanese craftsmanship, specifically the art of enamel work, applied to watch dials. It represents Seiko's commitment to offering timepieces that combine mechanical watchmaking with artisanal finishes, positioned as a dress-oriented option within the broader Presage collection.

The watch features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 40.5mm. It is powered by the automatic Seiko Caliber 6R15, which provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal on the front, offering scratch resistance and clarity for viewing the distinctive blue enamel dial. The movement is visible through a display case back.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in mechanical watches with unique dial treatments and those seeking a dress watch with a distinct aesthetic. The blue enamel dial, a key feature, is produced by master craftsman Mitsuru Yokozawa and his team. As a limited edition, it holds particular interest for collectors focused on specific, artisanal releases from Seiko.

Specifications

Caliber
6R15
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40.5mm
Dial
Blue enamel
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
DE
Denes_Papp
May 11, 2019

You do not have to have a screw down crown for swimming in a pool. You do ned a screw down crown for diving though.

SC
sc16
May 11, 2019

Didn’t occur to me to check the manual and proves my point that my thoughts are correct. However, then why did the AD where i initially wanted to buy the strap said not recommendable for this watch and also that Seiko would no longer uphold the warranty if water got in the watch. Thanks once again. KR

WA
Watchonthewrist
May 11, 2019

It looks amazing on the Seiko and would love to have a blue one on my shippo 🤗

BO
Boron
May 11, 2019

If a watch is water resistant to 100m, then it’s water resistant to 100m... no ifs, ands, or buts about it. What prevents water getting in are the seals in the crown tube, and as long as they’ve not degraded, then they will keep the pressurised water at bay. When you’re washing/rinsing the watch, do so with the crown down or steeply angled away from the running water, just to be on the safe side. Other than that, swim away ‘til your heart’s content.

CA
cazalea
May 11, 2019

Cazalea Opinion, explained for 5-year old - don't go in the water with a watch on unless it's a dive watch. Seiko Opinion: expressed as a chart SINN opinion: In order to use a watch safely when swimming we recommend a compression resistance of at least 100 m If a Sinn watch is labeled water-resistant, it fulfils the requirements of DIN 8310 in its original specifications (similar to ISO 22810). Sinn guarantees that its water-resistant watches can withstand pressures up to at least 10 bar. This c

HA
halgedahl
May 11, 2019

On the whole, dive watches are much less expensive (the Nautilus, Blancpain 50, etc. obviously excepted) , there are gazillions of styles, and one or two might pleasantly enlarge the aesthetic of your collection. Have you ever really seriously looked into owning one? The reissue of Seiko's 62MAS (SLA017) is particularly sweet, imho. Take a look, and… Have a great weekend! FH

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