Is my quartz watch waterproof?Updated a month ago
💧 Understanding water resistance ratings
How do I know the water resistance rating of my quartz or digit watch?
The water resistance level is indicated:
- On the back of the watch case
- On the original packaging
- On the product page on ice-watch.com
Ice-Watch quartz and digit watches are rated in ATM (atmospheres). Find your rating below and check what activities are allowed.
📊 Water resistance by ATM level
| Activity | 3 ATM | 5 ATM | 10 ATM | 20–30 ATM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perspiration / sweat | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hand washing / car washing | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Shower / bath / rain / splashes | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Swimming (pool or sea) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Intensive / athlete swimming | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Apnea / free diving | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Water sports / jumping in water | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
⚠️ Even at 20–30 ATM, avoid direct high-pressure water jets (pressure washers), strong impacts, and prolonged exposure to very hot water — these can force water through seals at any resistance level.
🚿 Specific situations
Can I shower with my quartz watch?
- 3 ATM → No
- 5 ATM or above → Yes, occasional shower is fine
Can I swim with my quartz watch?
- 3 ATM or 5 ATM → No
- 10 ATM → Yes, casual swimming
- 20–30 ATM → Yes, including sport swimming and water sports
Does water resistance decrease over time?
Yes. Water resistance may decrease over time due to normal wear (gasket ageing, impacts, chemical exposure). We recommend having the seals checked by a watchmaker every 1–2 years if you regularly expose your watch to water.
🧹 After water exposure
How should I care for my watch after contact with water?
- Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water, chlorinated water, or chemicals.
- Wipe dry with a soft, dry cloth.
- Do not charge or store the watch while wet.
- Avoid pressing the crown or any buttons while the watch is submerged or wet.
💡 Avoid: soaps, perfumes, sunscreen, and corrosive liquids — these can degrade the seals and strap material even within the rated resistance.
Water got inside my watch — what should I do?
- Do not press any buttons.
- Wipe the watch dry immediately with a soft cloth.
- Place it in a dry, well-ventilated area for 24–48 hours.
- Do not use a hairdryer or heating device.
- If the watch is still not functioning after drying, contact our customer service.
⚠️ Warranty and water damage
Is water damage covered by the warranty?
Water damage is not covered by the 2-year warranty unless a manufacturing defect is proven. Using the watch beyond its rated ATM level — or in conditions not allowed for its rating — excludes any warranty coverage for water-related damage.
I need help with my watch after water damage
Contact our customer service with your order number, a description of what happened, and photos of the watch.