A watch with a water resistance of 50 meters offers more protection against water than a 30-meter model, but here too, it is important to interpret the designation correctly. 50 meters water-resistant does not mean that you can take the watch to a depth of 50 meters without further ado.
50M, 5 ATM, and 5 BAR refer to a standardized pressure test. In practice, watches with this classification are suitable for daily use and situations where the watch comes into contact with water more often.
What does 50M water-resistant mean?
The designation 50 meters, 5 ATM, or 5 BAR indicates how much pressure the watch can withstand during a test. In real conditions, the stress can be different due to movement, temperature differences, and sudden pressure.
Therefore, you should not simply consider a 50M watch as one you can swim 50 meters deep with.
For normal daily use, this classification does offer decent protection against rain, splashes, and other incidental contact with water.
Can you swim with a 50-meter watch?
For swimming, it's wise to be very careful. A 50-meter classification is not considered the ideal choice for regular swimming or diving.
If you're looking for a watch for swimming, water sports, or activities where the timepiece will be submerged for extended periods, it's better to look for a model with higher water resistance. For intensive use in water, for example, dive watches are designed.
A 50M watch is particularly interesting if you want extra protection for daily use, without necessarily needing a specialized sports watch.
50M, 5 ATM, and 5 BAR
You can find the same water resistance in different ways on the dial or back of a watch. 50M, 5 ATM, and 5 BAR refer to the same pressure class.
The number can therefore seem larger than the practical uses suggest. The meter indication should therefore not be read as a maximum diving depth.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions if you are unsure about using a specific watch in water.
Maintaining water resistance
The water resistance of a watch depends, among other things, on the seals and the condition of the case and crown. These parts can wear out over time.
A watch that has been opened, for example, for a battery change, must therefore be correctly sealed. After a strong impact, it may also be wise to have the water resistance checked.
Want to know more about maintaining your timepiece? Check out our information on watch maintenance and repairs.
50-meter water-resistant watches for women and men
A water-resistant watch doesn't have to look sporty. Both women's watches and men's watches are available with different levels of water resistance.
For an active look, you can look at sporty models. If you prefer to wear a more refined watch, you can also choose an elegant model that is still suitable for daily use.
If you are looking for higher protection, you can view our complete collection of water-resistant watches and compare the specifications for each model.
Buying a 50-meter water-resistant watch
A 50-meter water-resistant watch is a good choice if you are looking for a timepiece that can withstand most normal daily life conditions. It offers more protection than 30M but is not automatically intended for diving or prolonged swimming.
At Juwelier Van de Heyning, you will find water-resistant watches in various styles, brands, and price ranges. Check the indicated water resistance for each model and choose a watch that suits how you actually want to use it.
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