How to Check for Water Damage in Your Luxury Watch

Water is a lifesaver for every living being on this planet. However, it is also the worst enemy of electronics and many mechanical devices, such as luxury watches.

Luxury watches are built to last, but even the finest timepieces are vulnerable to one of their biggest enemies—water damage. According to a report by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH), water-related issues account for a significant percentage of watch repairs worldwide. Many collectors mistakenly assume their timepieces are impervious to moisture, only to find condensation behind the crystal or corrosion in the movement. 

What makes water damage particularly dangerous is that it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. A foggy dial, rusted hands, or a malfunctioning movement could be early warning signs of moisture intrusion. Yet, many owners dismiss these as minor inconveniences. 

 In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to inspect your timepiece for moisture damage, what to do if water has entered your watch, and how to prevent future incidents. 

How Does Water Get into a Watch?

Because water is fluid and can only be compressed to a small degree, water can enter a luxury watch through various weak points.

1. Damaged or worn gaskets: Luxury watches have rubber or silicone gaskets around the case back, crystal, and crown to prevent water infiltration. As time goes by, these gaskets degrade, losing their ability to keep moisture out.

2. Improperly screwed-down crown: Many high-end dive and sports watches feature a screw-down crown to keep water out. If the crown is not fully tightened, water can seep into the case.

3. Cracked or loose crystal: A cracked or poorly sealed watch crystal (sapphire, mineral, or acrylic) provides an entry point for moisture. Even a hairline fracture can allow water vapor to enter and condense inside.

4. Faulty pushers on chronograph watches: Chronograph watches often have pushers that, if not properly sealed, can allow water inside—especially if they are pressed underwater. Some models have screw-down pushers for added protection.

5. Case back not properly sealed: If the case back is removed for servicing and not properly reassembled or sealed, the watch's water resistance is compromised. This is especially true for snap-on case backs, which offer less water protection than screw-down case backs.

6. Exposure to high humidity and sudden temperature changes: Moisture may condense inside luxury watches when exposed to humid environments or sudden temperature shifts (e.g., moving from an air-conditioned room to a hot, humid outdoor setting). Moisture intrusion may be unnoticeable.

7. Exceeding water resistance limits: Even a water-resistant watch has depth and pressure limits. Taking a watch beyond its rated depth, using it in a hot shower, or exposing it to pressurized water can push water past its protective barriers.

8. Aging and lack of regular maintenance: Over time, a watch’s water resistance declines due to natural wear on seals and gaskets. Regular pressure testing and servicing help maintain its waterproof integrity.

Signs of Water Damage in a Luxury Watch

Water damage in a luxury watch can cause serious issues. If you observe any of these signs, it may be an indication that your watch has incurred damage from water 

1. Fogging or condensation inside the crystal

• A misty or fogged-up crystal is one of the first signs of water ingress.
• It may appear as a temporary fog that comes and goes. Persistent condensation indicates trapped moisture inside the case.
• If the fog clears unevenly or remains visible, internal components may already be corroding.

2. Discoloration or staining on the dial or hands

• Water exposure can discolor or stain any component of the watch, especially vintage watches with non-waterproof dials.
• Rust spots may appear on the hands, hour markers, or date window.
• Luminescent coatings may fade or turn dark due to moisture exposure.

3. Malfunctioning movement or erratic timekeeping

• Water can corrode the delicate gears, mainspring, or escapement, which makes timekeeping inaccurate.
• A watch may run too fast, too slow, or stop working altogether.
• Automatic or quartz movements might be erratic due to moisture affecting lubricants and electronic components.

4. Rust or corrosion on metal parts

• Rust is especially problematic for screws, crown stems, and other steel components inside the watch movement.
• The case back or crown may also show signs of corrosion.
• If left untreated, rust can spread and damage essential parts of the movement.

5. Cloudy or warped watch crystal

• Prolonged water exposure can cause the crystal to become cloudy or develop a milky appearance.
• In extreme cases, the crystal may warp or detach from the case due to trapped moisture expansion.

6. Unresponsive or stiff crown and pushers

• If water seeps into the crown or pushers, they may feel stiff, unresponsive, or difficult to turn due to the rust and gunk inside the mechanism.
• Chronograph pushers may lose their tactile response, preventing them from starting, stopping, or resetting properly.

7. Battery failure for quartz watches

• Water can cause a short circuit in quartz movements.
• In digital models, moisture can create display malfunctions, with missing or flickering digits.

8. Mold or foul odor inside the watch

• Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause mold to grow inside the dial or case.
• A musty or metallic odor may indicate prolonged water exposure and internal decay.

9. Loose or detached watch hands

• The dial and hands can become dislodged due to swelling or corrosion of internal parts.
• This often leads to misalignment or hands not moving as intended.

How to Check for Water Damage in Luxury Watches

Checking for water damage in a luxury watch requires a careful inspection of both its exterior and movement.

1. Inspect the crystal for fog or condensation. Look for fogging or mist inside the watch crystal, especially after exposing the watch to temperature changes. If condensation appears and doesn’t dissipate quickly, moisture may be trapped inside.

2. Check the dial and hands. Examine the dial, indices, and hands for unusual stains, fading, or rust. Look for any discoloration of the lume, which may indicate water exposure.

3. Test the crown and pushers for functionality. Try winding the watch or adjusting the time—if the crown feels stiff, loose, or unresponsive, water damage might have affected internal parts. Chronograph pushers should click properly; if they feel sticky or sluggish, there might be damage from water.

4. Check the accuracy of timekeeping. Monitor the watch’s timekeeping. If it’s running too fast, too slow, or has stopped completely, the movement could have suffered damage from water. Quartz watches may experience battery failure, while mechanical watches may lose power reserve more quickly.

5. Examine the case back for corrosion. Check the case back and screws for rust or corrosion. The presence of rust may indicates prolonged water exposure. Pay special attention to the gasket area. A compromised seal allows water to enter the movement.

6. Look for water spots or warping on the crystal. A water-damaged watch may have a hazy, cloudy, or warped crystal. Mineral or acrylic crystals may develop a milky appearance after water exposure.

7. Smell the watch for unusual odors. A musty or metallic odor inside the case suggests moisture buildup and potential mold formation. If the leather strap emits a damp smell, water might have seeped in.

8. Listen for unusual noises from the movement. Hold the watch close to your ear and listen while winding or shaking it gently. A faint grinding sound or lack of the usual ticking noise could indicate internal rust or mechanical damage.

9. Open the case back (professional check only): A watchmaker can open the case back to inspect the movement for corrosion, rust, or moisture residue. They may perform an ultrasonic cleaning if water damage is detected.

10. Conduct a water resistance test (professional check only): A professional can perform a dry or wet pressure test to check the watch’s water resistance. This test helps determine if the seals are still intact or need replacement.

What Should You Do if Water Gets in Your Watch

If water gets into your luxury watch, acting quickly can prevent severe damage. Here’s what you should do:

1. Remove the watch immediately. Take the watch off as soon as you suspect water has entered. Continued exposure to moisture can worsen internal corrosion and damage movement components.

2. Avoid pressing the crown or pushers. Do not adjust the time, wind the watch, or press chronograph pushers. Any movement can force water deeper into the case.

3. Dry the exterior of the watch. Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth to gently dry the case, bracelet, and crystal. If the strap is leather, remove it to prevent further absorption and potential warping.

4. Check for condensation. Hold the watch under a light and look for fogging under the crystal. If condensation is visible, your watch has moisture trapped inside.

5. Keep the watch upright and avoid heat. Place the watch dial-side up to prevent water from pooling into the movement. Avoid using a hairdryer, oven, or placing it under direct sunlight—excessive heat can warp seals and damage lubricants.

6. Take it to a professional watchmaker. A certified watchmaker can open the case, dry out the movement, and inspect it for damage. They will clean any moisture residue, replace compromised gaskets, and conduct a pressure test.

If you can’t get to a watchmaker immediately, you can try the following:

• Silica gel packets: Place the watch in an airtight container with silica gel packs to absorb moisture.
• Desiccant method: If silica gel isn’t available, dry rice may help absorb some moisture, though it’s less effective.

What Should You Do If Your Watch Is Damaged by Water

If your luxury watch has suffered water damage, taking the right steps immediately can help minimize costly repairs and restore its functionality. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stop using the watch immediately. Remove the watch and avoid winding it, pressing the crown, or activating any pushers.

2. Check for visible signs of water damage. Look for fogging or condensation under the crystal. Inspect the dial, hands, and movement for discoloration or rust. If the watch has already stopped working, internal components may have short-circuited (for quartz watches) or corroded (for mechanical watches).

3. Dry the exterior gently. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off any moisture on the case and bracelet.

4. Do not attempt DIY repairs. Avoid opening the case, using heat sources (like a hairdryer), or placing the watch in rice—these methods are ineffective and may cause more harm. Moisture damage inside a watch requires professional cleaning and servicing.

5. Take your watch to a professional watchmaker immediately. A certified watchmaker or service center can open the case, dry the movement, and inspect it for corrosion. If necessary, they will disassemble the movement, replace damaged parts, and re-lubricate components. The gaskets and seals may need replacement to restore water resistance.

6. Request for a pressure test and water resistance check. Even if the watch appears to work fine after drying, its water resistance is likely compromised. A pressure test will confirm whether the watch can still withstand water exposure.

7. Consider full restoration if the damage is severe. If rust has spread inside the movement, a full restoration may be required.

How to Prevent Water Damage in Luxury Watches

Prevention is the best cure of all. Here are the best practices to keep your timepiece safe from moisture:

1. Understand your watch’s water resistance rating. Always check the manufacturer’s water resistance specifications before exposing your watch to moisture.

• Common water resistance levels:
  • 30m (3ATM) – Splash-resistant, not suitable for submersion
  • 50m (5ATM) – Can withstand light swimming but not prolonged exposure
  • 100m (10ATM) and above – Suitable for swimming, diving, or underwater activities, depending on the rating

2. Ensure the crown and pushers are secure. Always screw down the crown on dive watches before contact with water. Avoid adjusting the time or pressing chronograph pushers underwater unless your watch is specifically designed for it (e.g., Omega Seamaster Chronograph).

3. Avoid hot water and steam. Never wear your watch in the shower, sauna, or hot tub. That's because heat can cause seals to expand and contract, reducing water resistance.

4. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Moving from an air-conditioned room to a hot, humid environment can create condensation inside the case. If fogging appears under the crystal, have the watch checked by a professional.

5. Get regular pressure testing and servicing. Have your watch pressure-tested every 1 to 2 years to ensure water resistance. Luxury brands such as Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe recommend gasket replacement during routine servicing.

6. Rinse your watch after exposure to saltwater. If your watch is designed for diving, rinse it with fresh water after exposure to seawater to prevent salt buildup and corrosion.

7. Avoid extended water exposure if your watch is a vintage model. Older watches may have deteriorated gaskets and less effective sealing. Even if labeled water-resistant, vintage watches should not be submerged.

8. Store your watch in a dry environment: Use a watch box with silica gel packs to absorb moisture. Avoid storing watches in damp or humid areas.

9. Be cautious with leather straps: Leather absorbs moisture and can deteriorate over time. If you frequently expose your watch to water, consider a rubber or stainless steel bracelet.

10. Fix any signs of damage immediately. Delaying repairs can cause permanent damage. If you notice condensation, fogging, or erratic movement, take the watch to a professional watchmaker immediately. 

Common Misconceptions About Water Resistance

There are several misconceptions about water resistance in luxury watches that can lead to accidental water damage. Here are some of the most common myths:

1. "Water-resistant means waterproof."

• No watch is completely waterproof—even high-end dive watches have depth limits.
• Water resistance can degrade over time due to worn-out gaskets and seals.

2. "A 30m Water-resistant watch can be used for swimming and snorkeling."

• A 30m (3 ATM) rating only protects against splashes and rain, not full submersion.
• Safe swimming starts at 100m (10 ATM) or higher.

3. "If my watch doesn’t leak after being immersed in water, it's waterproof."

• Water damage can be gradual and internal—you may not notice it right away.
• Even a small amount of moisture inside the case can lead to long-term corrosion.

4. "A screw-down crown guarantees water resistance."

• A screw-down crown improves resistance but doesn’t make the watch invulnerable.
• If the gaskets are worn or the crown isn’t fully secured, water can still seep in.

5. "I can press the chronograph pushers underwater."

• Most chronographs are not designed to operate underwater unless specifically stated (e.g., Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Chronograph).
• Pressing pushers underwater can force water inside the movement.

6. "My watch is safe in the shower or hot tub."

• Hot water, steam, and soap can weaken seals and allow moisture inside.
• Temperature changes cause metal and rubber to expand and contract, reducing water resistance.

7. "A water-resistant watch never needs maintenance."

• Gaskets and seals deteriorate over time and should be replaced during servicing.
• Regular pressure testing ensures the watch maintains its original water resistance rating.

8. "If there's fog inside the watch, it will go away on its own."

• Fogging means moisture has entered the watch, and even if it disappears temporarily, corrosion may have already started inside.
• Immediate servicing is necessary to prevent further damage.

9. "Vintage water-resistant watches are still waterproof."

• A vintage watch that was originally water-resistant may no longer be due to aging seals and worn-out gaskets.
• Always have older watches pressure-tested before exposing them to water.

10. "Saltwater doesn't affect my water-resistant watch."

• Saltwater is highly corrosive and can damage the case, bezel, and seals over time.
• Always rinse a dive watch with fresh water after exposure to the ocean.

Conclusion

Water damage is one of the most preventable yet overlooked threats to luxury watches. Ignoring the warning signs—fogging, discoloration, erratic timekeeping—can turn a minor issue into a costly restoration.

If you suspect water damage, swift action is key. The longer moisture lingers inside a watch, the greater the risk of corrosion and irreversible movement failure. Taking your watch to a professional for inspection and servicing can save you from extensive repairs and maintain the integrity of your timepiece. Preventive measures, such as ensuring the crown is properly sealed, avoiding extreme temperature changes, and rinsing off saltwater exposure, can go a long way in preserving your watch's integrity.

Protecting your luxury watch from water damage ensures that it continues to function flawlessly for years---even decades---to come.