WATER RESISTANCE
WATER RESISTANCE
NOT ALL WATER RESISTANT STANDARDS ARE CREATED EQUAL
Water can have a huge impact on the mechanical components of an automatic watch. Internal parts are made from either brass or carbon steel. Brass loses its zinc component quickly when exposed to water, causing the metal to weaken and putting its structural integrity at risk. Carbon steel is highly susceptible to natural oxidation and galvanic corrosion. If exposed even briefly, rust can set in and quickly spread. Sensitive items, such as the dial and hands, can be destroyed beyond repair even if the exposure is limited.
The differences between ISO 22810 and ISO 6425 are “staggering." - Gear Patrol
| ISO 6425 (Seaholm) | ISO 22810 (Industry) | |
|---|---|---|
| Depth testing | 125% of depth rating | 100% of depth rating |
| Testing Duration | Tested for 2 hours | Tested for 10 minutes |
| Testing Medium | Water Immersion | Air Pressure |
| Testing Frequency | Every Watch | Sample testing |
| Resistance to a Magnetic Field | Tested | Not Tested |
| Resistance to Shock | Tested | Not Tested |
| Resistance to Salt Water | Tested | Not Tested |
| Reliability Under Water | Tested | Not Tested |
| Resistance to External Force | Tested | Not Tested |
| Resistance to Thermal Shock | Pre and Post Depth Testing | Sample testing |
| Time-preselecting device | Required | Not Required |
| Legible at a distance in the dark | Required | Not Required |
THE THREE PILLARS OF WATER RESISTANCE
Condensation
Condensation is the silent killer. Even minor amounts of condensation inside the case will have a lasting impact on the durability and accuracy of your automatic watch. SEAHOLM applies thermal shock tests before and after depth testing as mandated by ISO 6425 to insure of cases are impervious to condensation.
CORROSION
SEAHOLM tests for saltwater corrosion. We use marine grade 316L stainless steel in all cases and crowns to insure SEAHOLM watches thrive in high salinity environments.
DEPTH
It's fun to see how "low can you go". But for SEAHOLM water tighness in all facets of use is more important than acheiving a depth rating beyond what most divers can physically acheive. SEAHOLM tests every case to 125% of the 200m depth rating. SEAHOLM watches are tested to Diver's standards.
DOWNLOAD
THE SEAHOLM WHITE PAPER
For more on SEAHOLM testing, methodology and performance, download the WHITE PAPER. The WHITE PAPER includes insight into design and testing methodology for shock resistance, water resistance and anti-magnetism.