WATER RESISTANCE TESTING DEVICES
Air testing device
Water testing device
What is the purpose of water-resistance testing devices?
Water-resistance is an essential feature to ensure watches are protected against the infiltration of air, moisture, or water, which can compromise their performance and durability. Water-resistance testing devices, indispensable in the watchmaking industry, allow verification of a watch’s resistance to various pressures and conditions to which it may be exposed.
Air-tightness testing
The air-tightness test aims to detect leaks that might allow moisture or fine particles to enter.
Operating principles
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Vacuum test
The watch is placed in a sealed chamber where the air pressure is reduced. If the watch leaks, its case slightly deforms due to the pressure difference, which is detected by sensitive sensors. This test is non-destructive and suitable for delicate and complex watches. It is used at low pressure levels. -
Air overpressure test
In this test, the watch is subjected to an air pressure higher than normal. A probe detects any abnormal volume change or air leakage, indicating a sealing defect. This test is suitable for higher pressure values.
These tests ensure that the case parts, gaskets, and crowns are perfectly positioned and adequately compressed to protect internal components from environmental damage.
Air tests generally do not locate the exact origin of the leak.
Water-tightness testing
Water resistance is a widely required feature, especially for sports or diving watches. The test verifies that the watch can withstand pressure equivalent to the immersion depth specified by the manufacturer.
Common methods
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Pressure immersion test
The watch is immersed in a water bath inside a sealed chamber where pressure is gradually increased according to the depth to be tested (e.g., 30 meters, 100 meters, etc.). The appearance of air bubbles or condensation inside the case indicates a leak. -
Air overpressure followed by immersion leakage detection
Alternatively, the watch is first subjected to high air pressure, then immersed in a water tank. Escaping air bubbles reveal a leak. -
Ultrasonic or deformation measurement tests
Some modern devices use ultrasounds to detect water-resistance defects that are not visible or apparent with traditional immersion tests.
Water tests usually allow identification of the leak’s origin.
Importance and standards
Water-resistance tests must comply with international standards such as ISO 22810 for everyday waterproof watches or ISO 6425 for diving watches. These standards define water-resistance levels, testing procedures, and acceptance criteria to guarantee performance.