How Water Damage Affects Your Watch and How to Prevent It

Water damage is one of the most common causes of watch repairs and can be particularly devastating for both mechanical and quartz watches. Even water-resistant watches are not immune to moisture damage if their seals degrade over time. In this blog, we’ll explore how water damage can affect your watch, the signs to look for, and how to prevent it.

How Water Damage Affects Your Watch

  • Rust and Corrosion:
    Water inside the case can cause rust and corrosion, particularly affecting the delicate metal parts of the movement. Once rust sets in, it can be difficult—and expensive—to remove, and it may permanently damage the watch’s movement.

  • Dial and Hands Damage:
    Moisture can damage the dial and hands of the watch, causing discoloration, tarnishing, or mold growth. This can significantly affect both the appearance and the function of the watch.

  • Movement Failure:
    Water can stop a watch’s movement entirely, as the oils inside the watch break down and cause parts to seize. In quartz watches, water can short-circuit the battery or electronic components.

Signs of Water Damage

  • Condensation:
    Fogging or condensation under the crystal is a clear sign that moisture has entered the watch. This is often the first visible indication of water damage.

  • Inaccurate Timekeeping:
    If your watch starts to lose or gain time, it may be due to internal moisture affecting the movement.

  • Discoloration:
    Rust spots or discoloration on the dial, hands, or case are strong indicators that water has infiltrated the watch.

Preventing Water Damage

  • Check Water Resistance Regularly:
    Over time, the gaskets that provide water resistance wear out. It’s important to have your watch’s seals tested annually, especially if you frequently expose it to water.

  • Avoid Hot Showers or Saunas:
    Even water-resistant watches can suffer from the extreme temperature changes experienced in hot showers or saunas, which can cause seals to expand and contract, letting in moisture.

  • Have the Crown Properly Sealed:
    Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in or screwed down to maintain water resistance. If your watch has a push/pull crown, it is more vulnerable to water damage, so be extra careful around moisture.

Water damage can wreak havoc on your watch, but with proper care and regular maintenance, it’s avoidable. Make sure to get your water-resistant watches checked regularly and address any signs of moisture immediately.

For water resistance testing and professional watch repair, contact Sangamon Watches Repair Center today.