Monsoon season is finally here, offering a much-needed break from the relentless heat. However, this time of year also presents unique challenges for watch enthusiasts—especially those who treasure their waterproof watches. While many watches are designed to withstand water exposure, proper care is essential to preserve their longevity and performance during heavy rains and high humidity. Whether you own a diver’s watch, a sports watch, or are simply a fan of high-performance waterproof watches, following a few key maintenance tips can ensure your favourite timepieces stay in top shape throughout the monsoon. Discover how to protect and maintain your waterproof watches so they continue offering reliable function and style, rain or shine.
Understanding Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
To help guide the reader to get the most out of the tips on maintenance that follows here, it is essential to know the distinctions between a waterproof and a water-resistant watch. The term “waterproof” means that the watch will be shielded against the penetration of water. Unfortunately, no watch is one hundred percent waterproof. However, watches are described as water resistant to a specific level or pressure. Knowing the numerate value of your watch being water resistant will enable you to protect it better in the monsoon season.
Regular Cleaning
The monsoon rain may bring with itself dirt and other tiny particles onto your watch. Cleaning is significant to retain the look of your timepiece and make it run as it is expected. To clean the exterior of the watch, one has to use a soft cloth that has been dipped in water. If you need to clean it deeper around the bezel and bracelet, use a soft brush with relatively diluted soapy water. Make sure the crown is screwed back tightly before washing because if not, water will get into the case. Also, it is recommended to wash your watch with clean water once you perceive that it has been in contact with rain. If it gets wet in any form, it should be wiped.
Checking the Gaskets
Sealing between the case of a wristwatch is essential. These rubber seals help keep the water out of the case, and thus help protect the movement from the invasion of water. As gaskets get older they can degenerate and become less able to seal the watch correctly, therefore it is important to ensure that your watch is water resistant by giving it a check up now and then. You never know the kind of situation you might find yourself in that may warrant you needing a water resistant watch.
Avoiding Extreme Temperature Changes
Water resistant watches come with the warning that the watch is fit for a certain level of pressure exerted by water; changes in temperature can bring about changes in pressure. The seals and gaskets used to protect the watch can be compromised in such a situation. In monsoon, it is also not advisable for your watch to undergo sudden temperature changes such as from high humidity to a cool area or from a cool area to high humidity. Any such changes on these parameters can easily lead to moisture damage within the watch due to condensation.
Proper Storage
It is equally important to protect the watch from humidity and moisture even if it is not worn round the wrist all the time. For the storage and protection, it is advisable to store your watch in a dry and cool place. If possible, you should also put it in a box with a silica gel inside to limit the humidity. So that they can last for a long time, avoid exposing your watch to high levels of humidity and dampness such as in the bathroom because the watch will start to develop some form of rust and mould. It is also recommended to use an appropriate watch box or case since it only improves the protection from unfavourable factors.
Ensuring the Crown is Secure
Crown is among the most susceptible aspects of a watch to water penetration. As frequently as possible, remember to screw down all screws on the crown tight or to push them in until tight before you expose your watch to water. If you are wearing a watch that has a crown in the form of a screw, ensure it is well screwed. Overlooking this fundamental procedure exposes the movement to water and subsequent corrosion within the case.
Regular Servicing
It is recommended that your timepiece be handed over to a professional watchmaker for servicing at least once every two years to check if all the features of the watch, especially the water resistance features are in good shape. It is equally crucial particularly during the rainy season to take your watch for service if it was submerged in deep water at some point. A professional can examine the seals, gaskets, and the condition of the watch. Besides, the water resistance is refurbished with regular maintenance, and thus, the lifetime of the watch is prolonged.
Testing for Water Resistance
You should at least have your watch’s water resistant striped checked once every year if you normally immerse the watch under water. Most working people in the watch making industry have some testing equipment for water resistance and they can detect any problem on the watch before it becomes critical. They make the test a routine so that they are sure that the watch is set to endure the rains.
Avoiding Prolonged Water Exposure
Water resistant watches are meant to be worn in water. However, it is advisable not to wear them for long while swimming or in areas with saltwater or chlorine. In case of having wet your watch while swimming at the sea or a pool, it is recommended to wash it with fresh water to prevent the deposition of salt or chlorine as they harm the metal parts and destroy the gaskets. These residues, if they build up over a period of time, take their toll on the surface detail of various parts of the watch and detrimentally affect the watch’s water resistance.
Conclusion
From the above information, it is clear that it may not be right to use your water resistant watch constantly in the monsoon. Hence it is important that you maintain it properly to the best of your ability in order to get the best from it. With help of the tips listed above you can effectively protect your timepiece against the difficulties during the rainy season and enjoy the regular operation of your watch for many years.
Check out water resistant watches offered by Just In Time and select a watch that will be suitable for your everyday use. Just In Time is the largest retail chain for watches and has about 80 stores in India that boast collections of over 55 different excellent watch brands.
FAQs — Waterproof Watches in the Monsoon
-
What is the difference between waterproof and water resistant?
No watch is truly waterproof. Water resistant means the watch will resist water to a stated depth or pressure, tested under lab conditions. -
What ATM rating is safe for heavy rain?
5 ATM (50 m) handles rain and handwashing. 10 ATM (100 m) adds swimming and snorkelling. For diving you need 20 ATM or a rated dive watch. -
Can I shower with a water resistant watch?
Avoid hot showers and saunas. Heat and steam can deform gaskets and encourage condensation inside the case. -
What should I do after my watch is exposed to rain?
Rinse with fresh water, especially after dirty rain or puddle splashes. Pat dry with a soft cloth. Operate no crowns or pushers until the watch is fully dry. -
How often should I clean the bracelet and case in monsoon season?
Weekly is sensible. Use lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap and a soft brush. Rinse well and dry. Keep the crown fully secured before cleaning. -
How do I protect the crown area from leaks?
Always push in or screw down the crown before exposure to water. Never set the time or date in wet conditions. For chronographs avoid pressing pushers under water unless the model is designed for it. -
Why are gaskets important and when should I replace them?
Gaskets seal the caseback, crown and pushers. They age with heat, chemicals and wear. Have a pressure test and gasket check every 12 to 24 months, or after a hard knock. -
What are the best strap choices for the monsoon?
Rubber or silicone is easiest to rinse and dry. Stainless steel is fine if you rinse and dry well. Avoid leather in persistent wet weather since it absorbs moisture and can deform. -
How do I care for a leather strap if it gets wet?
Blot gently, stuff with absorbent paper if needed, and air dry away from heat and sunlight. Apply a leather conditioner once dry. Rotate straps to give leather time to rest. -
Is saltwater or chlorinated water a problem?
Yes. Both attack metals and gaskets. Rinse with fresh water as soon as possible, then dry thoroughly. -
I see fog under the crystal. What should I do?
That is moisture ingress. Do not heat the watch with a hairdryer. Keep it dry and take it to a service centre promptly for inspection and resealing. -
How should I store watches during the monsoon?
Use a cool, dry place. Add silica gel in the box or organiser and replace the sachets regularly. Avoid bathrooms and window sills.
