07/14/2026
5 things to do BEFORE your watch touches water πββοΈ
Your watch says 20 bar / 200m. Great. But that rating only holds if you do these first:
1οΈβ£ Check the crown β make sure it's fully screwed down or pushed in. A loose crown is the #1 reason watches leak.
2οΈβ£ Don't press any buttons underwater β unless they're specifically rated for it. Chronograph pushers are a common leak point.
3οΈβ£ Skip the hot tub and sauna β heat and steam expand air inside the case and soften gaskets. Cool or lukewarm water only.
4οΈβ£ Rinse with fresh water after β salt and chlorine corrode metal and eat gaskets. A quick rinse takes 10 seconds.
5οΈβ£ Pressure-test after any service β battery change, caseback opening, anything. Have it re-tested every 12β18 months if you swim regularly.
Water resistance isn't permanent. It's maintenance.
Full guide with a free bar-to-meters converter π
20 bar water resistance means 200 meters (656 feet) β but that's a lab rating, not a dive limit. Here's exactly what 20 bar lets you do, and what it doesn't.