Under Pressure . . . One Test We Don’t Want to Cheat on

Waterproof testing all the way down to 1000 ft.

When it comes to dive watches, reliability under extreme conditions is essential. These timepieces aren’t just worn for style—they serve as critical tools for divers who depend on their accuracy and durability underwater. One of the key factors in ensuring this reliability is pressure and water testing to 30 ATM (atmospheres), the equivalent of 300 meters or about 1,000 feet of water resistance. But why is this testing so important, and how do we ensure our dive watches meet this standard?

Why Pressure Testing Matters

Dive watches are exposed to extreme conditions that go far beyond everyday wear. At depths of 30 ATM, both the water pressure and environmental factors, such as saltwater corrosion and sudden temperature changes, can compromise the watch’s performance. A dive watch that isn’t properly sealed can allow water to enter its case, leading to potential damage of the delicate internal components like the movement, gaskets, and seals. 

Pressure testing ensures that the watch case is built to withstand these forces, maintaining its structural integrity at great depths. It gives divers confidence that their watch won’t fail, providing a critical backup to other equipment when tracking time underwater is a matter of safety. 

How Pressure and Water Testing is Done

To achieve a water-resistance rating of 30 ATM, watches undergo rigorous pressure and water testing in controlled environments. This process typically involves:

1. Dry Testing The watch is first subjected to high pressure in a dry environment, usually inside a sealed chamber. Air pressure is increased to simulate the conditions at 300 meters underwater. Sensors detect any deformations or leaks in the watch case, ensuring that no air escapes or enters.
2. Wet Testing After dry testing, the watch is immersed in water inside a pressure chamber. The chamber is pressurized to simulate 30 ATM of pressure, verifying the watch’s ability to prevent water ingress at the depth it’s rated for. A successful wet test ensures that no water breaches the case, safeguarding the movement inside.
3. Post-Test Examination After being removed from the chamber, the watch is carefully inspected. It’s checked for signs of condensation or leakage inside the crystal or case, which would indicate a failure in the sealing system.

These tests are vital to confirming that the watch can maintain full water resistance, even after prolonged exposure to extreme underwater conditions.

The Result: Confidence in Every Dive

Pressure and water testing to 30 ATM is more than just a specification—it’s a promise of reliability. For dive watches, this certification guarantees that the wearer can trust their timepiece in the deepest waters, knowing it has been meticulously engineered and tested to withstand the demands of professional diving.

Without rigorous testing, dive watches would be little more than a fashion statement. At Core Timepieces, we understand the importance of quality assurance in high-performance tools, and pressure testing ensures that every diver has a trustworthy companion on their underwater adventures.