Last Updated on September, 2024
Rolex watches are renowned for their durability and reliability, which are often associated with water-related activities.
Many people wonder if Rolex watches are truly waterproof or just water-resistant.
Understanding these terms is essential for ensuring the proper care and usage of Rolex timepieces.
In this guide, I’ll explain the intricacies of water resistance in Rolex watches, exploring their engineering feats and the factors that contribute to their ability to withstand water exposure.
Whether you’re an avid diver, adventurer, or simply curious about exploration, it sheds light on the fascinating world of Rolex and water resistance.
Quick Summary
- Rolex watches are designed to be water-resistant but not completely waterproof. The term “water-resistant” accurately describes their ability to handle water exposure, while “waterproof” is a misnomer since no watch can be entirely impervious to water.
- The water resistance of a Rolex watch can diminish over time due to factors such as aging seals, exposure to heat, and improper maintenance. Regular servicing and care are essential to maintaining the watch’s water resistance.
- Different Rolex models have varying levels of water resistance, with ratings ranging from 50 meters for the Cellini to 3,900 meters for the Deepsea. Understanding these ratings is crucial for choosing the right Rolex for specific water-related activities.
Rolex Watches: Waterproof or Water Resistant?
Rolex watches are made to resist water, but they aren’t completely waterproof. If something is waterproof, it means it can stay underwater for a long time and still work perfectly. But no watch, not even a Rolex, can do that.
Some people might say ‘waterproof’ when they mean ‘water resistant.’ It’s a common mix-up. But the correct term for watches like Rolexes is ‘water resistant.’
When you learn more about how watches work, especially ones for diving, you might see ‘waterproof’ and water resistant’ used interchangeably, but they actually mean different things.
Calling a watch waterproof suggests it can never let water in, no matter what. But that’s not true. All watches have parts that could let water in, like where the glass meets the case or where you wind the watch.
Because of this, the FTC banned the word’ waterproof’ in the 1960s. They said ‘water resistant’ is a more accurate term.
So, What’s The Difference?
Water-resistant watches have a rating that tells you how deep they can go underwater and still keep the water out. Every Rolex Oyster watch can handle at least 100 metres underwater.
Certain models, like Submariner, Sea-Dweller, and Deepsea, can go even deeper, from 300 to almost 4,000 metres.
No watch can be completely waterproof, but Rolex dive watches are about as close as you can get. For example, in 2014, someone lost their submarine in the Pacific Ocean.
It stayed 100 meters underwater for over a year before being found. After a bit of cleaning, it started working again.
So, while no watch is truly waterproof, a Rolex dive watch is as close as you can realistically get.
Why are Rolex Watches Water Resistant?
Rolex watches are known for their value and luxury. They’re made to be worn and stay shiny, even when they’re around water. Whether they’re made of gold or steel, Rolex watches are all about high-quality luxury.
The founder of Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf, created the Oyster watch case. It was the first waterproof case that could resist water. Since then, all Rolex watches have as their feature, including ones for flying like Oyster Perpetual, Air-King, and GMT Master.
One area where water could get into a watch, including Rolexes, is through the winding crown. To stop this, Rolex added a unique winding crown that locks tightly. The hatches on submarines inspire it. This design is used in all Oyster cases, making them really good at keeping water out.
What Can Affect the Water Resistance?
Your watch’s ability to resist water isn’t set in stone. It’s like how car manufacturers tell you the gas mileage of a new car. It’s tested in specific conditions that might not match real-life usage.
Here’s what can make your watch less good at keeping water out.
Age
Just like an older car might not perform as well, older watches might not resist water as well as they used to.
Over time, the seals and gaskets in the watch can wear out and lose their tightness. So, if you have a vintage watch, it might not be as water resistant as when it was new. That’s why it’s essential to get your watch serviced regularly.
Heat
Wearing your Rolex in a hot shower or a steamy hot tub might sound nice, but it’s not suitable for the watch. Extreme heat can damage the seals in the catch.
Even though Rolex uses high-tech materials for their seals, like fluoropolymers, they can still degrade over time, especially with exposure to heat and soap.
If you replace parts of your Rolex with one made by someone else, it could mess up the water resistance. Rolex makes sure every part fits perfectly together to keep water out. But if you start swapping parts, there’s a risk that the watch won’t be as good at resisting water.
The Crown
Forgetting to screw the crown back in after winding or setting the watch is a common mistake. Even though Rolex watches are designed to resist water, even if the crown is left out, it’s still risky.
If the crown is left out and combined with other factors like old seals or heat damage, it could lead to water damage.
Servicing
Regular servicing is the best way to keep your watch water-resistant. Rolex recommends servicing every 10 years, but it depends on how you use the watch.
If you use it in tough conditions or it’s an older model, you might need to service it more often. Vintage watches might need servicing every 5 to 7 years.
It’s a good idea to get your watch pressure checked every year to make sure the seals are still good. This simple service can help you catch any problems early and keep your watch working well.
Rolex Watches and the Ratings of Water Resistance
As mentioned earlier, Rolex watches are known for their quality and durability, including their ability to resist water. Here’s a breakdown of the water resistance ratings for various Rolex collections.
| Rolex Models | Case Size | Materials | Water Resistance |
| Rolex Cellini | 39mm | 18k Gold | 50m |
| Rolex Datejust | Various | Oyster Steel, Rolesor, 18k Gold | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex-Day-Date | Various | 18k Gold or Platinum | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Sky-Dweller | 42mm | Oyster Steel, Rolesor, 18k Gold | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Oyster Perpetual | Various | Oyster Steel, Roleser, 18k Gold | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Air King | 40mm | Oyster Steel | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Milgauss | 40mm | Oyster Steel | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Explorer | 39mm | Oyster Steel | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Explorer II | 42mm | Oyster Steel | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Yacht-Master | Various | Rolesium, Roleser, 18k Gold | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex GMT-Master II | 40mm | Oyster Steel, Roleser, 18k Gold, | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Daytona | 40mm | Oyster Steel, Roleser, 18k Gold, Platinum | 100m/330ft |
| Rolex Submariner | 40mm | Oyster Steel, Roleser, 18k Gold, | 300m/1,000ft |
| Rolex Sea Dweller | 43mm | Oyster Steel, Rolseser | 1,220m/4000ft |
| Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller | 44mm | Oyster Steel | 3,900m/12,800ft |
These ratings show the varying degrees of water resistance across the Rolex lineup. Whether you’re looking to wear a Rolex every day or one that can withstand extreme conditions, there’s a Rolex for every lifestyle and adventure.
Rolex Oyster Watches
The majority of Rolex watches bear the title ‘Oyster Perpetual’ on their dial, positioned just below the Rolex logo. This designation highlights the iconic feature of Rolex timepieces- the Oyster case.
Rolex introduced the oyster case in 1926, marking a significant milestone in watchmaking history. This revolutionary design was the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. The term ‘Oyster’ signifies the completely sealed watch case, which effectively keeps water out.
The oyster case achieves its waterproofness through a patented system. The bezel, winding crown, and crystal are screwed against the middle case, ensuring the outer case is watertight.
This construction method prevents water from seeping into the delicate internal components of the Rolex watch, even under challenging conditions.
The Rolex Oyster Case
Except for the Rolex cellini, all modern Rolex watches feature the renowned Rolex oyster case. This specialised case design ensures water resistance of up to 100 meters (330ft) for various Rolex models, including
- Rolex Datejust and Datejust II
- Rolex Oyster Perpetual
- Rolex Air-king
- Rolex GMT-Master II
- Rolex Daytona
As part of Rolex’s stringent quality control procedures, each watch undergoes various tests, including the pressure test. During these tests, the watch is exposed to water pressure exceeding its guaranteed depth by 10 percent or 25 percent for dive watches.
This means that Rolex oyster perpetual watches are suitable for activities like swimming or bathing, where they might encounter water for a short period.
However, it’s essential to note that these watches are not intended for diving, and wearing them for unlimited time underwater could compromise their water resistance.
The Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner has a rich history as one of the pioneering dive watches. Developed decades after the creation of the oyster case, the Submariner was Rolex’s response to the need for a reliable timepiece for professional divers.
In 1954, Rolex launched the Oyster Perpetual Submariner at the Basel watch fair. So, the Submariner marked a significant milestone in watchmaking history.
It was the first commercially available watch capable of withstanding depths of up to 100 meters underwater.
Since then, the Rolex submariner has undergone continuous innovation and refinement.
Today, the modern Submariner owns an impressive depth rating of 300 meters (1,000 feet), making it suitable for professional divers and enthusiasts alike.
While many owners of the Rolex submariner may never take it diving or venture anywhere near its maximum depth rating, the Yacht remains true to its roots.
Designed with pressure testing for real-world diving conditions, the Submariner embodies Rolex’s commitment to precision, durability, and performance in extreme environments.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller
Rolex’s commitment to improving water resistance led to the creation of the Rolex sea-dweller in 1967, surpassing the capabilities of the Submariner.
While the Submariner could reach depths of 300 meters, it faced issues for saturation divers during the diving, where the crystal would pop out during decompression.
To address this, Rolex introduced the helium escape valve in the sea-dweller, allowing helium particles to escape safely during decompression. This invention marked the beginning of the Sea-Dweller line.
Today, the Sea-Dweller line includes both the standard Sea Dweller and the Deep Sea Dweller. The standard Sea Dweller owns remarkable depth ratings of 1,200 (4,000 feet), while the Deepsea could be left with great depths of up to 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) for many years.
The Deepsea’s impressive engineering is thanks to the Ringlock System, developed through collaboration with diving professionals.
This innovative case architecture allows the Deepsea to withstand immense pressure without the bulkiness typically associated with deep-sea diving watches.
Relevant guides:
Water and Rolex
Showering With Rolex
So, you’ve got a Rolex on your wrist, and you’re wondering if you can take it into the shower? Well, the good news is, yes, you can shower, bathe or go in hot tubs. Rolex watches are built tough, and they can handle more than just everyday wear.
Showering with your Rolex is generally safe as long as you follow a few precautions.
Firstly, make sure the water isn’t too hot. Extreme heat can affect the seals and gaskets in your Rolex watch, which could compromise its water resistance over time. So, it’s best to stick to lukewarm or cool water when showering with your Rolex.
Secondly, be mindful of the pressure of the water. While your Rolex is designed to withstand some pressure, high pressure from a showerhead could potentially force water into the outer case.
To minimise this risk, you can try to keep your Rolex watch away from direct streams of water or adjust the showerhead to a gentler setting.
It’s also a good idea to avoid using harsh soaps or chemicals on your Rolex watch while showering. While Rolex watches are made from durable materials, certain chemicals could potentially damage this finish or affect both two sealed zones.
Stick to plain water or mild soap if you need to clean your watch while showering.
If you have an older Rolex or you’re unsure about its water resistance, you might want to take extra precautions. Instead of showering with your watch on, you could simply give it a quick rinse with cold water afterward.
This can help remove any dirt or grime without exposing your watch to prolonged water exposure.
While showering with your Rolex is generally safe, it’s essential to use common sense and take care of your watch. Regular maintenance, such as having your watch serviced by a professional watchmaker every few years, can help ensure its water resistance remains intact.
So, go ahead and enjoy the convenience of showering with your Rolex, but remember to treat it with care to keep it looking and performing its best.
Swimming and Diving In the Ocean With Rolex
So, you’ve got a Rolex on your wrist, and you’re wondering if it’s safe to take it for a swim or a dive in the ocean. The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you should know to keep your Rolex safe and in good condition.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand the rating of your water-resistant watch. This rating tells you how deep your watch can go underwater resistance ratings, ranging from 50 meters to over 3,000 meters.
So, before taking your Rolex into the ocean, make sure you know its water resistance limits.
Next, consider the type of water activities you’ll be doing. If you’re just going for a casual swim in the pool or snorkelling in shallow waters, most Rolex watches with water resistance ratings of 100 meters or more should be perfectly fine.
However, if you’re planning to go scuba diving or engage in more intense water sports, you’ll want to go for a Rolex with a higher water resistance rating, such as the Submariner or the sea-dweller.
When swimming or diving with your Rolex, be mindful of the water pressure. Sudden changes in the pressure, such as diving into the deep sea or ascending too quickly, can put stress on your watch’s watertight seal and gasket.
While Rolex watches are built to withstand the pressure of water to a certain extent, it’s always a good idea to avoid exposing your Rolex watch to extreme pressure changes to prevent any potential damage.
Another thing to consider is the temperature of the water—extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can affect the performance of your Rolex.
While most Rolex watches are designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures, prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold could potentially damage the seals and gaskets over time.
So, if you’re diving in particularly cold or hot water, be mindful of how long you expose your Rolex to these conditions.
When swimming or diving with your Rolex, it’s also important to rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward. Saltwater, chlorine, and other chemicals found in pools and the ocean can be corrosive and may cause damage to your Rolex if left on its surface for too long.
So, after your swim, be sure to rinse your Rolex with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth to remove any residue.
If you’re planning to dive to deeper depths or engage in more intense water activities, consider investing in a Rolex specifically designed for diving, such as the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, or Deepea.
These watches are equipped with additional features, such as helium escape valves and thicker cases, to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea diving.
Whether you’re swimming laps in the pool or exploring the depths of the ocean, wearing a Rolex can add a touch of luxury to your water adventures.
Just be sure to know your watch’s water resistance limits, take precautions to protect it from extreme pressure and temperature changes and give it a thorough rinse after each swim to keep it looking and performing its best.
Signs of Water Damage in Rolex
Water damage can be a real concern for Rolex watches, or any watch, for that matter. Even a small amount of moisture or vapour can damage the delicate inner workings of your Rolex.
Sometimes, the effects are so subtle that you might not even notice them until it’s too late. That’s why regular servicing, recommended every 5-10 years, is crucial. It’s the best way to catch any issues before they become serious problems.
If your Rolex is on the older side, it might be a good idea to be extra cautious and avoid wearing it in the water altogether.
But how do you know if your Rolex has been affected by water damage? Here are a few signs to watch out for:
- Malfunctioning Hands: if the hands on your Rolex watch start acting up, like sticking in one spot or stuttering instead of smoothly sweeping around the dial, it could be a sign of water damage. Water can mess with the delicate gears and mechanisms inside the Rolex watch, causing the hands to malfunction.
- Fogging: another telltale sign of water damage is fogging or steaming up inside the crystal face of the Rolex watch. If you notice condensation forming on the inside of your Rolex’s crystal, it’s a clear indication that moisture has found its way inside the outer case. This is definitely something you’ll want to get checked out by a professional watchmaker as soon as possible.
- Luminous Dial Problems: water can also affect the luminous dial on your Rolex, which is the part that makes the numbers and hands glow in the dark. If you notice that the glow is dimmer than usual or that it’s not glowing at all, it could be a sign of water damage. Moisture can dampen the luminous material, causing it to lose its glow over time.
If you notice any of these signs of water damage in your Rolex, don’t ignore them. Even if the damage seems minor, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to preserving the integrity of your Rolex watch.
Take your Rolex to a qualified watchmaker or authorised Rolex servicing center as soon as possible for a thorough inspection and any necessary repairs. By addressing the issue early on, you can prevent further damage and keep your Rolex looking and performing its best.
Things to Do if You Got Water Inside Your Rolex
Discovering water inside your Rolex can be a real headache, but it’s essential to act quickly to minimise any potential damage. Here’s what you should do if you find moisture in your Rolex watch.
- Recognise The Signs: If you notice condensation or fogging on the crystal of your Rolex, or if you observe other abnormalities like the dimming of the luminous dial or malfunctioning hands, it’s a sign that water has found its way inside your Rolex watch, as I mentioned earlier.
- Act Fast: time is of the essence when it comes to addressing water damage in your Rolex. Whether the water is from saltwater or freshwater, the internal mechanisms of your watch are left untreated.
- Dry Out The Watch: if you believe the amount of water inside your Rolex is minimal and it has been there for a while, you can try drying out the watch yourself. Place it face up in a warm, dry area, avoiding excessive heat.
Alternatively, you can submerge the Rolex watch in dry, uncooked rice or pure silica gel cat litter to help absorb moisture. However, be cautious as this method carries the risk of introducing debris into the movement.
- Seek Professional Help: Regardless of how severe the water damage is, it’s always best to take your Rolex to a professional watchmaker as soon as possible. Attempting DIY repairs or leaving the watch untreated can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line.
- Don’t Wind Or Adjust: avoid winding or adjusting the watch if you suspect water ingress. Doing so could push water deeper into the delicate mechanics of the watch, exacerbating the problem.
- Pull Out The Crown: To prevent further internal damage, pull out the crown of the watch to stop the movement. This can help minimise the spread of water inside the watch.
- Visit An Authorised Dealer Or Repair Service: take your Rolex to an authorised dealer or a reputable watch repair service that specialises in Rolex watches. Professional watchmakers have the expertise and tools necessary to open the watch without causing additional damage, dry and clean internal components, and assess any damage that may have occurred.
Remember, delaying action can lead to corrosion and irreversible damage inside your Rolex. Rolex watches require specialised care, especially when it comes to water damage.
After any incident involving water ingress, it’s essential to have the watch thoroughly inspected and its water resistance tested by a professional.
Do you have a Rolex Watch? And are you looking to get it sold? If yes, we’ll buy your timepiece. Contact Sell My Rolex London.
Conclusion
Rolex watches have long been synonymous with water-related activities, leading many to question their waterproof capabilities.
Through this exploration, I’ve uncovered the complexities of water resistance in Rolex timepieces, shedding light on their engineering prowess and the factors influencing their aquatic performance.
Whether you’re an adventurer, diver, or Rolex enthusiast, understanding the benefits of water resistance is crucial for maximising the lifespan and proper functioning of these iconic watches.
