Practicality and reliability - the distinctive features of waterproof watches. Models are chosen by athletes and people leading an active lifestyle, as well as those who live in changeable climatic conditions. In addition, stylish watches from a well-known manufacturer will serve as an expression of the status of its owner.
A bit of history
The problem of moisture getting inside the watch case worried many craftsmen a hundred years ago. Many manufacturers tried to solve it. The first success was achieved by the company Rolex: it was she who in 1926 received a number of patents for waterproofing technologies. In particular, the brand came up with a crown, a two-layer case, sealing seals, a seal of the winding shaft and other innovations that made the product dust- and waterproof.
Innovative watches gained popularity after stenographer Mercedes Gleitze swam across the English Channel.
The development of models that are resistant to the ingress of fluid is not over. In 1932, the watch and jewelry house Cartier introduced a kind of waterproof case, which was based on a special screw cap. And about the creation of deep-sea models began to think already during the Second World War, when they began to seal the most vulnerable parts - the top cover and the head.
Now, waterproof watches are chosen by those who dive into the water, as well as people leading an active lifestyle. Companies offer models for representatives of different social groups, age and gender. Products have an original design and are able to meet the needs of the most demanding customers.
The most reliable status is kept by watches from Swiss manufacturers who regularly introduce new technologies into production and are seeking to create the most functional models.
Benefits
Waterproof watches have a long service life and are characterized by high durability due to their design features. Depending on the marking, the models withstand exposure to rain, swimming in the pool or diving to a greater depth.
These watches are resistant to:
- excessive pressure of water and air;
- temperature drops;
- external mechanical stress.
Tightness of products depends on the quality of the seals used. With timely replacement of gaskets and compliance with the rules of operation, the watch will last more than one year. Models from expensive manufacturers are equipped with an exact mechanism, so they are not in a hurry and are not late.
Classification
The cost and practicality of the clock depends on the indicator of Water Reistant, which signals the ability of the device to work under water. Some of them are able to withstand only a direct hit of drops of liquid, with other people can even swim.
Along with the lettering on the watch there will be a mark with a specific number: for example, 100 or 200 meters. To take it literally can not, because it is conditional and should be correlated with other indicators. WR 10 ATM will mean that the pressure on the watch should not exceed 10 a. t. m., otherwise they can fill.
Watertight marking:
- 30 m (3 ATM). Splashproof models. They are not directly waterproof watches, but they can not be afraid to fall under the rain or wet stream from the tap.
- 50 m (5 ATM). Withstand short-term immersion under water - experts do not recommend using them for swimming.
- 100 m (10 ATM). Designed for water sports: surfing, diving with a mask. A sudden drop in pressure at a great depth may cause the watch to break.
- 200 m (20 ATM). Watches are popular among divers because they withstand immersion to a considerable depth. As a rule, the real indicators are lower, and it will not work down to 200 meters. Among other things, the models are durable, resistant to external influences.
There are watches with higher rates, intended for professional immersion under water. In this case, restrictive numbers can reach 500 m and 50 ATM.
Some manufacturers produce models with intermediate values: 60, 120, 220, 800 and 1000 m. One of the highest markings are watches from the company Swiss Military: they withstand diving to a depth of 6000 meters.
Types and models
Watches differ in appearance, design features and built-in functionality. The simplest models are used purely to show the time, while others are able to count the owner's pulse or send messages. Based on this, there are varieties of waterproof watches:
- Mechanical. Classic products, which begins the history of watches. Equipped with hands and dial. Products are characterized by reliability and ease of operation: to bring time, it is enough to twist one wheel.
- Electronic. They are distinguished by a durable case and a high level of practicality. Models can be equipped with additional functions: have a built-in calendar, timer, stopwatch.
- Solar powered. Innovative model that is environmentally friendly and saves money. The watch has a built-in battery, which is powered by sunlight. To charge the product is enough light obtained by regularly wearing accessories. The system is designed so that energy accumulates during the day and is used even at night.
- With a compass. Option for travelers, lovers of hiking and expeditions. The clock indicates the direction of the world and helps to navigate the terrain. The convenience of the model lies in the fact that you can use the compass even when your hands are busy.
- Smart, or smart watches. Gadgets are synchronized with your smartphone. They are able to show missed calls and messages, let you know the weather forecast for the next day or remind you of upcoming events. Like regular watches, they are worn on the wrist. Models with a touch screen are easy to operate, equipped with an intuitive interface.
- Sports. Used as a fitness tracker. They are equipped with a heart rate monitor, pedometer, chronometer and other functions. Models are effectively used to measure performance while running or training. They are quartz, computer or mechanical.
- With GPS tracker. Gadgets are used to determine the location. There are two groups of hours: for adults and children. In the first case, the data is displayed on the clock screen, in the second - on a mobile device through which parents track the location of the child.
- With tritium illumination. The principle of operation of the products is similar to the operation of a kinescope. They are miniature light sources, the life of which can reach 25 years. They are effectively used in conditions of darkness, on trips.
- Tourist. Electronic clocks, which are used in trips, trips to nature, mountain climbing. The built-in mechanism is distinguished by its reliability, the robust case prevents damage to the product in the absence of the benefits of civilization. There are models not only with a compass, but also with a thermometer or with a navigator. Such multi-functional models will not get lost in unfamiliar terrain.
Watches are divided into women's and men's, which is reflected in their design. Models for the fair sex are smaller, elegant and sophisticated. Crystals, precious stones, inserts and patterns of other shades are used as decorative elements. Men's wrist watches, as a rule, are made in restrained shades and are characterized by minimalism.
Materials
Watches appeared as a fashion accessory, designed primarily for representatives of the highest class. Initially, they were made of gold, silver and decorated with precious stones. Now these materials can be used in the manufacture of accessories, but they have given way to more practical raw materials.
What makes the case of waterproof watches:
- Plastic. Cheap version, often used for the manufacture of budget models.
- Aluminum alloy and zinc. Inexpensive material, resistant to external influences, but can not withstand strong blows.
- Brass. Durability, reliability - the characteristic features of the metal. Belongs to the average price category, it may oxidize.
- Steel or titanium. Popular materials widely used by manufacturers. Such accessories are durable, have good aesthetic characteristics.
- Precious metals. Watches of them are expensive, belong to the premium class.
Waterproof silicone watch is a practical option for swimming in a river or pool. Such models weigh little (about 10 g), easily attached to the hand. They are made in motley shades; there are both monophonic and variegated products. They are decorated with crystals, colored inserts. There are also watches in which a silicone strap is combined with a metal dial.
To protect the dial use different types of glass: organic, mineral, sapphire, combined. It prevents the ingress of not only moisture, but also dust and dirt. Plastic can be used, but it is not strong enough and is not suitable for use in harsh environments.
Models for kids
Brands offer both adults and children's watches. Products will appeal to young swimmers: accessories are firmly held on the wrist, are not felt during training, are deprived of sharp corners and are absolutely safe for the child. In the event of a breakdown, they do not form splitting fragments and are not capable of injuring their little owner. Watches for children are made of high-quality plastic, the dial is protected by mineral or acrylic glass.
Models are made in bright colors, decorated with drawings and patterns. Original watch, case and strap which have different shades. There are also more restrained, monochrome products that will allow the child to feel like an adult owner of "serious" watches.
How to choose?
Deciding to buy a new watch, you need to ask yourself the question of the conditions in which they will be worn:
- Will the owner wear them every day?
- Are you planning to go to the beach?
- Does it live in high humidity?
The choice of accessories depends on the status and position of the person. Managers and public figures are obliged to look in accordance with the unwritten dress code, ordinary people can purchase low-end models in neutral colors.
What to consider when buying a watch:
- Marking The degree of permeability depends on the conditions under which the product can be worn. When the owner does not plan to swim in them, it makes no sense to buy expensive models for diving and professional water sports.
- Manufacturer. In the market of waterproof watches there are both low-end products made from inexpensive materials and premium models. The latter are more durable and improved performance.
- Design. Monochrome clocks, made in soothing colors, will be combined with almost any outfit. Black, gray watches are suitable for everyday wear, and for solemn images.Another option is when the watch is selected for specific clothes, combining shades, decorative elements or, conversely, building an image based on contrasts.
- Functional. The clock can only be used according to its original purpose or as a modern device connected to a smartphone. Depending on the needs of the owner, the product is selected with one or another set of functions.
If the traveler purchases the goods, it will be wise to take shock-resistant watches, since they will be used in rather difficult conditions, for example, in the mountains. For a resident of the city, whose lifestyle does not imply frequent trips to nature and to other places, simplified models will do, but in this case the appearance of the product will be of paramount importance.
Browse popular models
Brands offer a wide variety of waterproof watches, differing in price and functionality.
Xiaomi WeLoop Hey 3S - practical model for a wide consumer segment. It is aimed at athletes because it has satellite navigation, built-in modes for running and cycling. The maximum battery life hours is about a month without recharging. The watch is equipped with a small screen, supports Bluetooth and has a reasonable price.
Model LG Watch Sport is a multifunctional gadget in a stylish minimalist case. Its round screen is covered with a protective layer. The clock operates on the basis of the operating system Android Wear 2.0, the maximum memory capacity is 4 GB. They can also be connected to the Internet. The battery life is about two days.
Professional watches are more expensive due to improved performance. Suitable for extreme tourism Casio Pro Trek WSD-F20 with built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. The model allows you to download an interactive map, find out the weather, it is equipped with altitude and pressure sensors, and a pedometer. The display has a high detail, based on the design taken contrasting shades.
Luxury accessories include watches from such brands as Rolex, Blancpain, JeanRichard, Girard-Perregaux. Models are made in a laconic case, have a large number of useful functions and can withstand immersion to a considerable depth. Products can be equipped with indicators of air reserve, show the date, have anti-reflective coating.
Care instructions
When wearing a waterproof watch you should know their weak points, it is: a crown, a back head, a chronograph button and glass. These parts may be fluid, so care should be taken when handling them. This is not the end of the tips for using a waterproof watch.
Despite the fact that they are stronger than conventional models, in order to prolong their service life, the following recommendations should be followed:
- It is forbidden to immerse the product in boiling water and hot water. When wearing watches in the bathroom or sauna, they can be deformed by high temperatures, after which the models will not be repaired.
- Sudden temperature drops are also dangerous for watches, as are soap solutions.
- Expensive models are made of corrosion-resistant metals, and low cost can rust when immersed in salt water. To avoid this, after swimming in the sea, the products are washed with fresh water.
- Pressing buttons under water is permissible only for watches with the highest rates. Otherwise, water may seep inside.
- Replacing batteries requires professional knowledge; therefore, for repair or maintenance, the watch should be returned to service centers.
Manufacturers often specify additional parameters for different elements, in particular, for the crown and the back cover. We are talking about indicators of tightness, on which the lifetime of products directly depends. The watch mechanism is protected with special pads, responsible for the tightness of the system. Seals are made of rubber, and they should be changed every 2-3 years.
Reviews
Consumers say the high strength of waterproof watches. They are popular with athletes, supporters of active and extreme rest. Products with an electronic mechanism are well-known, their advantages include wear resistance, reliability, resistance to mechanical shock. In addition, only such watches are equipped with many functions.
Ladies choose a small clock with a case decorated with stones. Ladies like models with narrow straps, made in rich colors. Men prefer massive accessories of dark shades. They note the convenience of several hands on the dial, and more and more often they buy watches that can perform additional operations.
A meaningful video will summarize the foregoing.