Kenji
Appraiser, I'm in trouble.
The product description for a used watch said "waterproof".

This means it's invincible in the sea, pool, or hot springs, right?
I'm going to put on this watch and challenge a water slide right now.
Appraiser
Let's stop that challenge first.

Even if it says "waterproof," setting aside diver's models, it doesn't actively recommend use near water.
What's important is to see to what extent it's expected to withstand water, and under what conditions.

Just because you're wearing a raincoat doesn't mean you can participate in waterfall meditation.
Kenji
Raincoat for waterfall meditation...
Indeed, even if it initially looks like "I'm prepared for rain," after 3 seconds, I'd probably be soaked to the point of regretting my life choices.
Appraiser
(Today, I need to waterproof Kenji's waterside excitement more than the watch...)

① "Waterproof" doesn't mean "all water is OK," but "it's for specific situations."

Appraiser
First, when you see the word "waterproof," consider the type of water and the situation of use separately.

Rain or splashes from handwashing.
Water-related work.
Pools or the sea.
Snorkeling.
Scuba diving.

All of these put different strains on a watch.
Even if it's all "water," a glass of water and sideways rain on a typhoon day are almost entirely different characters.
Kenji
You're right.
For me too, "a little splash" and "being hit by a waterfall" are different.

The former is a summer memory.
The latter is an event to wash away sins from a past life.
Water situations to differentiate for "waterproof"
  • Rain, sweat, facial wash splashes: Minor water exposure in daily life
  • Water-related work: Increased time and frequency of water contact
  • General swimming: Use in pools or the sea
  • Snorkeling, marine sports: Increased water pressure and stress from movement
  • Scuba diving, saturation diving: Requires specialized diver's performance
Appraiser
So, just looking at "waterproof" and suddenly becoming aggressive near water is not good.
Waterproof is not a declaration of invincibility to water, but a description of use cases.

② "Daily life waterproofing" doesn't make you strong the moment you put on swim trunks.

Kenji
But "daily life waterproofing" sounds strong, doesn't it?
It protects my daily life, right?

It sounds like it protects me from rent, electricity bills, oversleeping, and unreasonable demands from my boss.
Appraiser
Unfortunately, daily life waterproofing doesn't protect you from rent.

Generally, daily life waterproofing often assumes slight water exposure in daily life, such as rain, sweat, or splashes during face washing.
It's dangerous to misunderstand this as "you can swim with it."

To give an analogy, daily life waterproofing is like an umbrella.
It's helpful for a sudden shower, but no one reports on a typhoon with an umbrella.
Kenji
Reporting on a typhoon with an umbrella...
It would probably turn into a broken umbrella in an instant, and I'd be soaked.
Rough guide to waterproof markings
  • Non-waterproof: Avoid situations with even minor splashes or sweat
  • Water resistant for daily use / 3 ATM water resistant: Suitable for rain, sweat, face washing splashes
  • 5 ATM water resistant: Some classifications can be used for water-related work or general swimming, but the individual condition needs checking
  • 10 ATM / 20 ATM water resistant: Some classifications are suitable for swimming, marine sports, snorkeling
  • Diver's marking: Specialized marking for diving use. Always check the purpose and specifications
※ For used watches, the actual reliability depends not only on the marking but also on the year of manufacture, maintenance status, gaskets, crown, and case condition.

③ "30m waterproof" is not a ticket to dive 30m.

Kenji
So, if it says "30m waterproof," doesn't that mean I can dive 30m?

I was already friends with a dolphin in my head.
Its name is Takashi.
Appraiser
I'm sorry for Takashi, but you need to be careful there.

Numbers like "30m," "50m," "100m" don't simply mean you can routinely dive to that depth.
In actual use, not only water pressure but also arm movements, water currents, impacts, temperature changes, and deterioration over time are involved.

Jumping into the sea just by looking at the numbers is like a 170cm tall person saying they can safely fall into a 170cm deep hole.
Kenji
That's definitely not good.
Even if the numbers match, the situation is terrible.

It's not "Your height and the depth of the hole match. Congratulations," is it?
Common misunderstandings with numerical markings
  • m marking: Don't interpret it as a guarantee to swim freely at that depth.
  • BAR/ATM marking: View it as a guide for suitable usage scenarios.
  • New product design performance: For used items, the current individual condition is crucial.
  • Instant water pressure: Stress can increase with diving, water currents, showers, etc.
  • Warranty content: Markings and store warranty coverage are separate; confirm both.
Appraiser
The waterproof number is not a decoration to raise expectations.
It's an indication to understand what kind of use is intended.

④ Waterproofing for used watches has a "used to be strong" problem.

Kenji
But there's "WATER RESISTANT" engraved on the case back.
If the watch itself says so, isn't it quite reliable?

It's like an old man saying, "I used to be fast."
Appraiser
That analogy is quite accurate.

The waterproof marking on the case back or dial is an important clue to understanding the watch's specifications.
However, for used watches, the current water resistance changes depending on the condition of the gaskets, crown, crystal, case, and case back.

In other words, "I used to be fast" and "I can sprint at full speed in the neighborhood sports day now" are different.
Kenji
I understand.
I was pretty fast in the 50m dash in high school.

If I ran now, I'd probably stop at the 20m mark to check my shoelaces and the meaning of life.
Key factors affecting water resistance in used watches
  • Gasket deterioration: Rubber material can harden or lose elasticity.
  • Crown wear: The condition of parts related to screwing down and sealing is crucial.
  • Scratches or chips on crystal/glass: Even small gaps can lead to water intrusion risk.
  • Case or case back distortion: Can be affected by past impacts or repair history.
  • Maintenance history: When waterproof testing or gasket replacement was performed can be a factor in judgment.

⑤ Touching the crown underwater is like opening a window on a stormy day.

Kenji
If it's a waterproof watch, is it okay to adjust the time underwater?

Pulling the crown in the pool, wondering "what time is it?",
and adjusting it smartly underwater.
Isn't that a bit like a movie?
Appraiser
That movie would probably end with a repair estimate.

Operating the crown or buttons underwater or when wet is absolutely forbidden.
The crown is also an entrance to the inside of the watch.
Opening it underwater is like saying "Let's ventilate" and fully opening the window on a stormy day.
Kenji
The timing for ventilation is terrible.
Wind, rain, leaves, and even the neighbor's plastic bag would probably come into the house.
Operations to avoid around water
  • Pulling the crown while wet: Can cause moisture to enter the interior.
  • Pushing buttons underwater: Operating chronographs, etc., is not allowed.
  • Forgetting to screw down the crown: Water resistance cannot be ensured.
  • Adjusting time immediately after handwashing: Do it after wiping off moisture.
  • Crown operation feels unusual: Do not force it; seek inspection.
Appraiser
Even with a waterproof watch, if you open the entrance, it's a different story.
It's the same as not being able to talk about security performance if you leave your front door open, even if your house has a lock.

⑥ Baths, hot springs, and saunas are not "healing" for watches.

Kenji
What about baths then?
Maybe the watch wants to wash away the day's fatigue too.

I feel bad saying "Ah~" in the tub by myself, without the watch.
Appraiser
You don't need to be so considerate of the watch.

It's best to avoid baths, hot springs, saunas, and hot showers.
Temperature changes, steam, soap, and hot spring minerals are not a gentle environment for a watch.

From the watch's perspective, it's not a relaxing hot spring trip, but a joint training camp of humidity and heat.
Kenji
A joint training camp...
And the advisors are "steam" and "soap," huh?

The watch would definitely be sitting politely in the corner of the room.
Situations where things are scarier than water
  • Hot water: Temperature changes can strain components and gaskets.
  • Sauna: High-temperature environments are not suitable for watches.
  • Hot springs: Consider the effects of minerals and heat.
  • Soap/Shampoo: Possibility of dirt or components other than just water adhering.
  • Shower water pressure: Avoid directly strong water application.

⑦ "Waterproof tested" and "waterproof guaranteed" are not the same.

Kenji
I found a watch described as "waterproof tested" in a used product listing.
Does that mean it's okay to dance by the water?

I'm planning choreography that's a mix of crawl stroke and Bon Odori.
Appraiser
Let's forget that dance for now.

"Waterproof tested" can be reassuring in that it means an inspection was performed.
However, what level of inspection, when it was inspected, and whether it guarantees against water entry after sale are separate issues.

Just because you've had a health checkup doesn't guarantee you can run a full marathon, pull an all-nighter, and have three extra servings of noodles.
Kenji
There are people who use health checkups as an excuse, aren't there?

Like people who say, "My blood pressure was good, so I'm going for a mountain of fried chicken today."
The test results are crying.
What to check for "waterproof tested"
  • Inspection date: When was it inspected?
  • Inspection details: What ATM equivalent was confirmed?
  • Post-inspection maintenance: Was gasket replacement and crown check performed?
  • Warranty scope: Is water intrusion covered by the warranty, or is water resistance not guaranteed?
  • Usage conditions: Is it intended for swimming, bathing, marine sports, etc.?
Appraiser
Especially with used watches, product descriptions sometimes state "water resistance not guaranteed".
"Tested" and "water intrusion guaranteed" are two different people with the same face.

Confusing these will lead to as much regret as entering a rice field in leather shoes on a rainy day.

⑧ "Water resistance not guaranteed" is the big boss appearing in small print.

Kenji
Sometimes "Water resistance not guaranteed" is written in small print at the bottom of the product page.
Can I just ignore that?

My heart is already married to the big "Waterproof" text above.
Appraiser
Let's hold a family meeting for that marriage first.

In used watch product descriptions, even if "Waterproof" or "Waterproof tested" is written at the top, a disclaimer may state "Water resistance not guaranteed."
In such cases, water intrusion during use will not be covered by the warranty.

The smaller the text, the more important it is.
It affects your life as much as "Photo is for illustration purposes only" under a food picture.
Kenji
"Photo is for illustration purposes only" is strong.
Sometimes, in the photo, shrimp are the main feature, but in reality, there's only a token amount of shrimp.
Waterproof words not to overlook in product descriptions
  • Water resistance not guaranteed: Water intrusion issues are not covered.
  • As-is sale: Scope of post-purchase support may be limited.
  • For daily use only: Check what level of use is assumed.
  • Strictly avoid water exposure: Especially for old or special watches.
  • Exclusions from warranty: May exclude bathing, seawater, sauna, crown operation, etc.

⑨ Leather straps suddenly get upset near water.

Kenji
If the case is waterproof, the strap is fine too, right?
Doesn't going to the poolside with a leather strap watch make me look a bit sophisticated?

Like someone used to resorts.
Appraiser
Let's consider the watch body and the strap separately.

Even if the case is waterproof, leather straps are susceptible to damage from water and sweat.
Discoloration, odor, hardening, and cracking can occur.

Taking a leather strap to the pool is like participating in nagashi somen (flowing noodles) in a suit.
It's not impossible, but the person will quietly suffer afterwards.
Kenji
Nagashi somen in a suit...
My professional dignity would probably flow away before the noodles.
Why check the strap around water
  • Leather straps: Can discolor, smell, harden, or crack from water and sweat.
  • Metal bracelets: Leaving sweat or seawater after use can lead to dirt or corrosion.
  • Rubber straps: Many are water-resistant, but check for deterioration or cracks.
  • Aftermarket straps: Check the material separately from the watch body's waterproof rating.
  • Used condition: Odor, cracks, dirt, and enlarged holes can affect appraisal and impression.
Appraiser
When looking at waterproofing, consider the overall condition you wear, not just the watch body.
Near water, the case, crown, case back, crystal, and strap are all a team effort.

⑩ If water gets in, don't shake it, heat it, or bury it in rice.

Kenji
What should I do if the inside of the watch fogs up or I think water has gotten in?

Should I shake it?
Should I use a hairdryer?
Should I put it in the rice bin?

My appliance troubleshooting usually involves rice and prayer.
Appraiser
Rice and prayer are not suitable for watches.

If you suspect water intrusion or fogging, stop using it and consult a specialized store or manufacturer as soon as possible.
Shaking it, heating it, repeatedly moving the crown, or drying it yourself can actually spread damage internally.

It's like trying to cure a stomachache by doing sit-ups.
Kenji
Curing a stomachache with sit-ups...
My body would probably say, "Not now."

If a watch is shaken when it's in trouble, it would be the end of our relationship, if it were human.
Basic response when water intrusion is suspected
  • Do not continue using it: Internal corrosion and malfunction may progress.
  • Do not touch the crown or buttons excessively: May spread moisture.
  • Do not heat with a hairdryer: Heat may stress components and gaskets.
  • Do not disassemble yourself: May increase repair difficulty.
  • Consult early: Have a specialist store or manufacturer inspect and decide on repair.

⑪ The question to ask before buying is not "Can it handle water?" but specific questions.

Kenji
So, what should I ask the store before buying a used watch?

If I ask, "Can it handle water?", it feels like I'm at an izakaya asking, "Can this fish swim?"
Appraiser
You've noticed a good point.

It's good to be specific with waterproof questions.
"Has a waterproof test been conducted recently?"
"What ATM equivalent was confirmed?"
"Is water damage covered by the warranty?"
"Have the crown and gaskets been replaced?"
"Is it intended for use in bathing or swimming?"

Asking this way makes it easier for the retailer to answer.
Question template before buying
  • Has this particular item been waterproof tested recently?
  • What ATM equivalent was the test conducted at?
  • When was the test date?
  • Have the gaskets been replaced and the crown checked?
  • Is water damage covered by the warranty, or is water resistance not guaranteed?
  • Is it intended for use in swimming, bathing, the sea, or saunas?
  • Is there a difference between the waterproof marking on the case back/dial and the current retailer's assessment?
Kenji
I see.
Instead of "Can it handle water?", I should ask about testing, warranty, and use cases.

Indeed, asking "How many chili peppers?" and "Do you have plans tomorrow?" is more realistic than asking "Can you handle spicy food?"
Appraiser
(That question is more suited to appraising super-spicy ramen than watches...)

⑫ Sellers, be honest about maintenance and usage, not just "It's waterproof!"

Kenji
Conversely, what should sellers do?
Should I take the watch and proudly declare, "It's waterproof!"?

Like a department store clerk.
Appraiser
Instead of puffing out your chest, organize the information.

When was it serviced?
Has it undergone a water resistance test?
Have the gaskets been replaced?
Was it used near water?
Has it ever fogged up or had water ingress?

It's important to be honest about what you know.
When it comes to water resistance, providing its history is more trustworthy than exaggerating.
Information about water resistance to gather before selling
  • Maintenance history: When and where was it serviced?
  • Water resistance test: Has it been tested, and are the results available?
  • Gasket replacement: Is the replacement history known?
  • Usage environment: Has it been used in the sea, pool, bath, or sauna?
  • Malfunction history: Has it ever had a fogged crystal, water ingress, or crown issues?
  • Documents: Are repair statements, warranty cards, inspection records, etc., available?
Kenji
When selling, it's about history, not heroic tales.

"This watch was a hit at the beach!" is less appealing to appraisers than "Gaskets were replaced in 2024," right?
Appraiser
Exactly.
What matters for a watch appraisal is verifiable information, not romance.

Romance is fun, of course, but in an appraisal setting, "when, where, and what was done" carries weight.

⑬ Remember: "Notation, Condition, Scenario, Warranty"

Appraiser
Today's summary is: notation, condition, scenario, and warranty.

First, look at the water resistance notation on the dial or case back.
Next, examine the current condition of the watch.
Then, consider what scenarios you want to use it in.
Finally, check the scope of the seller's warranty.

If you understand these four points, you'll be less swayed by the word "waterproof."
Kenji
Notation, condition, scenario, warranty.
It's like the Four Heavenly Kings of water resistance.

"Kenji who only looks at the notation" was the type to lose to the first of the Four Heavenly Kings.
Appraiser
But today, you've learned to advance beyond the first.

With used watches, don't just rely on the water resistance notation.
Look at its current condition, intended use, and warranty details.
That's what's important.
4 Steps for Checking Water Resistance
  • Notation: What is written on the dial, case back, and product description?
  • Condition: What is the condition of the gaskets, crown, crystal, case, and case back?
  • Scenario: What do you want to use it for – rain, handwashing, swimming pool, sea, bathing, sauna?
  • Warranty: Is water ingress covered by the warranty, or is water resistance not guaranteed?

Conclusion: "Waterproof" is not an invitation to the sea, but a usage precaution.

Appraiser
When you hear "waterproof," it's natural to feel at ease.
But with used watches, you need to look beyond the notation to the current condition, inspection history, usage scenarios, and warranty coverage.

Here's how to remember it:
Water resistance is not an "invitation to the sea" but "a usage precaution."

Especially, you should avoid diving into the sea with a daily-use water-resistant watch.
It's like going under a waterfall in a raincoat.
Kenji
From today, even if it says "waterproof," I won't immediately put on my swimming trunks.

First, I'll check:
Notation, Condition, Scenario, Warranty.

And if I get excited near water, I'll tell myself:
"This is a watch, not a raincoat."
Appraiser
(That slogan surprisingly hits the core of choosing a used watch...)
4 things you can do starting today to avoid "waterproof" failures
  • Check the water resistance notation on the dial, case back, and product description.
  • For used watches, be mindful of the condition of the gaskets, crown, crystal, and case.
  • Assume you should avoid bathing, hot springs, saunas, and operating underwater.
  • Differentiate between "water resistance tested" and "water resistance guaranteed."
NEXT EPISODE
Episode 25: That "magnetization" - does time suddenly speed up?
~The "It's not a print for the fridge" problem in the watch world~
  • Smartphones, bag magnets, home appliances. Your watch might unknowingly go on a magnetic camp.
  • Suddenly running fast, slow, or stopping. The cause might not be a malfunction but magnetization.
  • The appraiser's analogy: "Don't make your watch a compass" theory explodes.
Next time, your wristwatch starts pointing north!
※The next episode preview is for dramatic effect. However, the proximity between watches and magnets is quite important for both daily use and appraisals.

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