Water resistance vs waterproof

[Zack1978]

Hi everyone,
I have a quick question about caring for the new to me Rolex 1005 in terms of use in and around water. I know that the watch is water resistant, but what exactly does that mean in real world applications? Can I shower with it on? Swim? I don't want to risk damaging the watch, so I will heed the advice of more experienced Rolex owners.


Thanks,
Zack

[Jefferyasher]

Here is my understanding. "Water Resistant" typically means that the watch is humidity-protected. "Water Proof" typically means a watch's ability to withstand water pressure. Many times they are interchanged. The watch is rated water proof to a specific ATM (atmosphere) pressure or depth. The assumption for water proof is that the seals and gaskets within the case and stem are working properly. With age these deteriorate and become less effective in keeping moisture out. So even though a watch may be water proof to 300 meters, if the seals and gaskets are old, the watch may leak in 5 feet of water. Having said that, all Rolex watches have a minimum water resistance of 100 meters or 328 feet. Many here will recommend having your watch pressure tested yearly.

[roadkillrob]

I definitely would not swim, resistant like Jefferyasher indicated usually is no pressure, so humidity, splashes, but I would not submerge for sure and would take it off to shower if it was mine.

From Tourneau website

What does it mean if the back of my watch is stamped with "Water Resistant?”
A watch stamped with "Water Resistant" means that it is humidity-protected. It can endure a bit of water splashes from washing your hands or being caught in the rain. However, water resistance does not mean you should swim or shower with your watch on.

Water is the biggest enemy of a watch. If you go swimming or play sports, you should have your watch checked for an accurate reading of its water resistance levels every year. The outside case may look rugged and big, but the movement is very tiny and very delicate. The only thing that stands between your watch and water is a small gasket, a tiny O-ring that is usually made of rubber or silicon. Gaskets form seals around the stem of the crown, pushers, and correctors and sit inside the case and the crystal. Over time, they dry out and lose elasticity and the ability to form a proper seal. This explains why regular testing is so important for maintaining the water resistance of a watch.

[Abdullah71601]

Your 1005 has been around a few years, but if it's been serviced recently it is waterproof. If you don't know the service history, take it to an AD who can pressure test it for you. Passing the test says it's waterproof. Failing the test gives you something to fix.

I wouldn't dive that watch, but if it passes a pressure test I would swim with it. I definitely wouldn't be worried about anything around the house.

[Muzz]

It's an oyster so if the seals are good so are you to swim across the English Channel.

[peterskinner]

Pedants corner: are any Rolex watches described as 'waterproof.' ? I thought they were described as water resistant to a certain depth.

[Jason71]

Originally Posted by Muzz

It's an oyster so if the seals are good so are you to swim across the English Channel.

And dive with it to any reasonable recreational depth

[joe100]

Firstly, nothing is waterproof. A nuclear submarine isn't waterproof, it can leak just like a watch. What your watch has in common with a submarine are the seals and regular maintenance. I have my watches pressure tested annually around my birthday. Going 5+ years without a cheap pressure test is pretty silly if you ask me, or just assuming one was done at service (non rsc).

Pressure test your Oyster, wear it everywhere and enjoy