Selecting the perfect watch isn't always a walk in the park.
Among the myriad of things to consider when searching for one, one of the most significant factors for many is whether or not the watch is waterproof.
Just so you know, waterproof watches aren’t only for surfers or divers; they're great for any man, woman, or child who doesn't want the stress of trying to make sure they keep their wrists out of water's way at all times.
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Best Waterproof Watches
#1 Best Men’s: Citizen Watches Men’s Promaster
- Great Watch For Diving and Snorkeling
- Rated for Up to 666 Feet (200M)
- Gorgeous Stainless Steel and Blue Face Design
#1 Best Women’s: LETSCOM Fitness Tracker HR
- Perfect For Tracking Fitness Goals of All Kinds!
- Water-Resistant to Sweat and Rain Only
- Sleek, Digital Design Reminiscent of a Smartphone
#1 Best Kid’s: KIDPER Digital Watch
- Durable and Multi-Functional Digital Watch
- Water-Resistant Up to 164 Feet (50M)
- Durable, Silicone Rubber Strap
The Top 9
Not only is the Citizen Watches Promaster a sleek looking timepiece, but it also boasts some pretty high-quality characteristics that you'll come to love.
They have uniquely built in a water depth sensor into the face that lets you know how deep you've gone in the water, making it perfect for snorkelers and ocean lovers of all kinds.
You can go up to 200 meters without it shorting out. As for the design, it's a gorgeous stainless steel case that molds around the unidirectional bezel and blue dial. There is an inconspicuous little date window at 4 o'clock too.
The crystal is made with transparent, anti-reflective minerals and the strap is made out of a durable polyurethane that will hold up for years of use. It has a "rapid ascent" feature that sounds an alarm if a diver is rising more than nine meters per minute, a rate that can be very damaging. Not many other watches in this price range have this kind of safety feature. This feature is powered by the eco-drive technology inside, a technology that is powered up by sunlight. No battery, no problem!
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#2 Seiko Men’s Automatic Analogue
Seiko Watches have been around for over 100 years, and they have made quite a name for themselves regarding stylish, functional watches.
Just like the Promaster, the Seiko Men's Analogue Watch has a classy look, especially for a scuba diving watch. The thing is, there is so much more beyond the look to love. When it comes to the build, it is made for diving.
The band is made from a durable and comfortable black rubber, a gorgeous, stainless steel case, and a sleek black dial with easy-to-read white marks that glow in the dark when you're underwater or in the dark. It is water resistant up to 200 feet as well. This means you can easily explore shipwrecks or coral reefs without worrying about it breaking. It comes with Kinetic Direct Drive technology that is used to keep the watch charged as you move with it.
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#3 Casio Men's Sports Analog Dive Watch
If you like the analog look, yet want something that feels a bit more tactile, we recommend the Casio Men's Sports Analog Dive Watch.
The black background looks tough yet sleek and is engraved with bright white numbers that make it easy to read no matter where you are. For the military men out there, you also have numbers for military time. The band is one of the toughest on this list with a molded resin design and durable buckle closure.
The watch is water resistant up to a whopping 330 feet. You can pretty much perform any watersport your heart desires with this thing on. The outer ring, known as the bezel, rotates with ease so that you can keep track of your time in increments of 5 minutes. This is necessary for scuba divers! When you get out of the water, you can go straight to dinner without taking it off. While it may not have all the fancy features of higher-end watches, it gives you a fashionable and functional design without having to cash in the extra dough.
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Best Women’s Waterproof Watch
#1 LETSCOM Fitness Tracker HR
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, smartwatches are in right now.
There's a lot to love about the LETSCOM Fitness Tracker, as it's a high-end smartwatch that not only gives you a stylish look but also has all the functionality of a waterproof fitness watch. Getting some unexpected rain during your morning jog? Maybe that cycling class has you sweating beads.
That's what the LETSCOM was built for so no need to fret. We love the data tracking features that closely monitor your body functions, keeping you safe and motivated to get in shape.
The watch comes complete with a USB cable for easy charging, and you can even pair it with your smartphone to get all of your texts, calls, or other notifications that come from your device. There are 14 exercise modes built in so that you can better understand the data that is being displayed, as well as GPS that can track distance, route, and pace. Just note, however, that this waterproof watch is only rated IPX7, meaning it can hold up in heavy rain or sweat, though it should not be taken in the pool or ocean.
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#2 Casio LRW-200H-2BVCF
The Casio LRW-200H-2BVCF (what a mouthful) is one of the most stylish women's diving watches around.
Not many companies make great diving watches for women, so we dig Casio for doing such a great job! This watch comes in a variety of colors and displays time in 12 and 24-hour formats with different sized numbers for each. As for the design, you get strong Japanese quartz and a white resin band that is both comfortable and durable. It's attached to your arm with the stainless steel buckle closure for extra security when you're down under.
You will be down under too, as this watch is rated for down to 330 feet under the water! We love the fact that it is incredibly lightweight too, as big watches underwater can be a massive burden. You'll almost forget you're wearing it! For a mid-range watch with some robust design characteristics, it's a no-brainer for the women of watersports!
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#3 Timex Mid-Size Ironman Sleek
If you know anything about watches, there is no doubt that you have heard of Timex.
They are the epitome of mid-range watches, and their Ironman Sleek Watch is one of the best waterproof watches around. It has a unique, sporty design that ultimately sets it apart from other watches we've seen. The strap is made from a lightweight and ultra-durable polyurethane material that gives you tons of flexibility and comfort. The watch lives by its name in that it perfectly sleek enough for women with smaller wrists. Other watches can seem a bit too bulky, so they got it right here!
The Ironman Sleek has a master button that helps you access the variety of features on the watch including the sports stopwatch, the lap memory, the interval training, and the countdown timer. It also comes complete with an INDIGLO function that allows you to see the digital display no matter how dark it is.
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Best Kid’s Waterproof Watch
#1 KIDPER Digital Watch
The KIDPER Digital Watch is a multi-functional waterproof watch that has a ton of onboard features including a stopwatch timer, chronograph, and an alarm.
All of these are illuminated by a bright, blue backlight, making it more than suitable for use in the dark or underwater. Speaking of underwater, it allows for dives down to 164 feet. This is great for surfing, swimming, showering, or splashing around in the rain. The Japanese digital design provides precise time-telling, and the hard resin glass is pretty much shatterproof.
The strap is made out of a comfortable and durable black silicone rubber, and the face is covered in stainless steel. A kid's watch should be strong enough to hold up whatever they do, so we're glad they didn't skimp out here. It's also incredibly easy to set up. Your kid will love it!
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#2 AZLAND Waterproof Swimming Watch
The AZLAND Waterproof Swimming Watch is excellent for kids ranging from 5-12 years old.
It comes complete with a futuristic electronic display that has a bright background illumination for a comfortable read underwater. The 35mm watch dial is perfect for smaller wrists, and the high-quality rubber band material is both lightweight and durable.
It's also very flexible so you can bend and twist it without it snapping. The watch is entirely water-resistant down to 100 feet, meaning your little one can go for a swim or take a shower without worry.
We love the fact that the design is a bit sleeker. This makes it perfect for both boys and girls of all shapes and sizes. It is comfortable to wear and comes with a few cool features like a night light and an alarm. It even has a little snooze button! For a seemingly high-functioning watch, it's also quite simple to use, making it perfect for little ones!
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#3 Cofuo Kids Digital Waterproof Watch
The Cofuo Kids Digital Waterproof Watch is both sports and fashionable, perfect for your little action star!
The large dial is complementary to the thin, stylish band, and shows time using a bright backlight, perfect for easy-to-read functionality underwater. The Original Movement feature keeps precise time as your kids move and the long-lasting battery operation provides tons of power for extended periods.
The shatterproof resin glass is crystal-clear and sealed off nicely so that you'll never get the dreaded fog when underwater. It's perfect for hyperactive children too and completely tolerant of pressure. It's waterproof up to 50 meters, making it useful for light swimming and showering, though should not be used for diving. The band is made out of a durable, silicone rubber band for added comfort. It also comes in a variety of fun and funky colors so that your child can get one to fit in with their style! For a watch that provides both excitement and functionality at a price that is easy on the wallet, look no further than Cofuo!
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Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Watch
Many watch manufacturers don't advertise their watches correctly and will label them as "waterproof," even though they are technically "water-resistant." While waterproof watches can stand the type of pressure that comes with diving hundreds of feet underwater, water-resistant watches are only suitable for withstanding small bouts of water such as showers or rain. You will no doubt find yourself in a world of watch-made tears after trying to take a water-resistant watch with you scuba diving.
This is why watches that are waterproof have a depth rating. Good waterproof watches typically fall in the range of 330 feet. This is more than enough for solid scuba diving, as most recreational watersports don’t take place below 100 feet.
How To Choose The Best Waterproof Watch
Band
While it's not the first thing that most people think of when buying a waterproof watch, it is undoubtedly one of the most important things to consider. First of all, what's the point of buying a great watch if it doesn't even fit around your wrist properly? Make sure to do a measurement of your wrist and compare it to the sizes of the watch to make sure that it won't be too tight or too loose. Typically, watches will come with small buckles that allow you to adjust the correct size, though that doesn't mean there will be a perfect sized hole for your wrist.
Beyond the size, you'll want to get a band that is made from durable, waterproof material. Again, what's the point of going for a waterproof watch if the band is going to wear away after time spent in the water. We highly recommend straying far from waterproof watches that incorporate any leather or cloth into their bands, as these materials are known to take on lots of water. The leather is the worst, as it will start to crack and fall apart over time.
Lastly, the material should be comfortable and non-irritating. You may be surprised to hear that many people get rashes and have allergic reactions when wearing certain types of watches. If you have sensitive skin, it's a good idea to go towards something like clear silicone. Many rubber-accelerated bands or bands with heavy dyes, can be very irritating on the skin, especially in conjunction with water.
Watch-Material
Just as important as the band material is the material that the actual watch itself is made out of. This is especially true for waterproof watches, as some materials aren’t as good with water as others. Here are some of the best materials you should keep your eyes out for when buying a waterproof watch:
Stainless steel is one of the best types of materials for waterproof watches, as it is resistant to corrosion and able to withstand the pressures of being underwater for more extended periods.
You can also look at getting a silicone rubber. It’s soft and comfortable to wear, great for people with allergies, and pretty much watertight.
Lastly, titanium is another excellent material to check out, though it is usually available only on higher end watches. It won’t corrode in the slightest, making it great for heavy water users, and also looks incredibly sleek.
Size
Size is critical, especially if you don't want a watch that is to tight that it cuts off your circulation or so loose that it falls off. You also want to check the diameter of the face. Some watches are better suited for those with more slender wrists, as the faces are slender too. Here's a helpful guide to getting your watch size right.
Watch Type
There is an ongoing battle between analog purists and digital futurists when it comes to watches. In reality, it all comes down to your personal preference. That’s not to say that there aren’t certain features you should be aware of though when choosing between the two.
For the most part, digital watches are packed with a ton of different features including timers, stopwatches, GPS, fitness trackers, Bluetooth connection, and more. They usually operate with some replaceable battery or rechargeable battery, though those batteries typically last a long time. More and more companies are beginning to upgrade their digital watches now, so if you're into high-tech gear, we recommend keeping your finger on the pulse of this realm.
Now, on the other hand, analog usually have higher water-resistance ratings, as they don't have as many parts on the inside that are susceptible to water damage. They also don't require any external power, making them far more reliable than digital watches. With that said, you won't get the high-tech functionality that you get with a digital watch.
Metrics
We all know that watches can tell time, though you may have known about that watch that can tell time, keep track of your heart rate, tell you your location, and walk your dog. Okay, there isn’t a watch that can walk your dog yet, though you’d be surprised when it comes to the functionality of newer watches on the market. If you’re into watersports, which is likely why you’re searching for a waterproof watch, having metrics for GPS and fitness tracking can be insanely helpful. Take some time and go through the features of the watches you’re looking at to make sure they have everything you need.
Water-Resistance Rating
Some watches will resist water and water pressure better than others, so if you’re serious about getting a watch that can go to the depths with you, you need to check out the rating. To preface this, you must understand that no watch is 100% waterproof and all watches will eventually fail when exposed to enough water pressure.
These watches are typically measured using an ATM (Atmosphere) scale. The higher the number of ATM, the better it is at resisting water in deeper, more pressure-heavy situations. For example, a watch that is 3 ATM is good for 30m, or 100 feet will be perfect for normal water situations such as showering or being out in the rain. These watches are not great for swimming though.
Watches that are 5 ATM are good up to 50m, or 165 feet are suitable for light swimming, though should never be worn for serious diving or snorkeling. If you plan on taking your watch underwater, you should be in the market for one that is at least 10ATM with a 100m or 330-foot rating. We don't have any diving watches on our list, which are typically rated at around 250-300m, as they are a bit of specialty type of watch, though if you're looking for a professional scuba diving watch for reaching the furthest depths, you should find one that is at least 25ATM.
Quality
It is essential to make sure that your waterproof watch is not made with cheap materials overall if you want it to last you. Unfortunately, even watches that are made with suitable materials are not crafted well, so it's essential to test them out for yourself and read reviews. An excellent waterproof watch should at least last you five years if you’re wearing it all the time.
The first thing you should look at is how the band is attached. Is there a buckle closure that straps the band to your wrist? What is it made out of? Does it come loose when you give it a little tug? A suitable closure system shouldn't stretch, fray, or lose form over time.
Next, look at the actual face of the watch. A great waterproof watch should not only be scratch-resistant but should also be crack-resistant. If your watch gets scratched from being dragged across a surface like a desk, it's not high-quality. It will also become incredibly difficult to read, rendering the watch pretty much useless.
After that, check the buttons. Can you push them in normally without them sticking or failing to work? How hard do you have to push them to get them to function? Failing buttons can allow water to seep in if you're not careful.
Power
If you're getting a digital watch, it is important to consider the power consumption of the watch. Many of these watches run on external batteries. It would suck to have to continue replacing a battery every month because your watch keeps failing on you. If your watch has a rechargeable battery, you should make sure that it can hold a good charge for long periods. Certain setting such as backlights will drain power more than others, so if your chosen watch is known to drain a lot of power, you should at least be able to turn these functions off to reserve power when need be.
FAQ
Are Watches Waterproof?
Don't let any of these large companies fool you with their deceptive marketing tactics. No watch out there is completely waterproof, and all watches will eventually fail if put under enough pressure! Watches come in varying degrees of water-resistance that is measured by ATM. If you want a watch that is more "waterproof" than the next, you should look for a watch that has a higher number before the ATM rating. For example, a watch that is 10 ATM is going to be able to withstand more water and water pressure than a watch that is 5 ATM.
How Do I Clean My Waterproof Watch?
You don't need anything special to clean a waterproof watch. Most of what you need is probably already lying around your house. The best things to clean your watch with are a mild soap and a lint-free cloth. That cloth should be something along the lines of microfiber so that it doesn't scratch the face. Start by getting your cloth a little bit damp and add just a touch of soap. Rub the face (and the band if it also needs cleaning) until all of the dirt and grime has been washed off. When you're done, wipe it clean with a dry microfiber towel or cloth.
How Do I Replace My Watch Battery?
While some watches are rechargeable, some still require that you replace the battery for them to work. Manufacturers will usually provide you with instructions on how to do this, though unfortunately, it's not always the case. For those of you who have watches that don't have instructions, you can typically find the battery by opening up the back end with a miniature screwdriver. Simply remove the old battery from the back and replace it with a new one. Most modern watches will use small lithium cell batteries like this one.
Final Thoughts
No matter whether you're in the ocean or on land, or in the sun or rain, it's always important to be able to tell time.
This is why we compiled a list of some of the best waterproof watches that can venture through life with you no matter where you go.
It's important to consider not only the functionality of a great waterproof watch but also how it looks and feel to you!
After all, there is no point of getting a great waterproof watch if you don't like wearing it.
