One of the most common reasons why people need the best waterproof watches for swimming is to keep track of time underwater. Both mechanical and digital watches can be waterproof for users to wear them while engaging in aqua activities.
Whenever people get into the water, the biggest threat to a watch is certainly the invasion of this liquid to its internal components. While a normal watch stands a high chance to be damaged by water infiltration, a waterproof one blocks it right from the beginning.
I have managed to compile a list of the most excellent watches available that are waterproof with different features, designs and price ranges. If swimming is not your cup of tea, you would still need to have a waterproof watch for other water-related events.
See Also:
Table of Contents
- What Are Waterproof Watches?
- Water-Resistant vs Waterproof Watches
- What Is the Best Waterproof Watch?
- Comparison Chart
- The 15 Best Waterproof Watches for Swimming Reviews
- Seiko Divers Automatic Waterproof Watch
- Timex Boys Digital Waterproof Watch
- Armitron Sport Women’s Waterproof Watch
- Seiko Men’s Automatic Analogue Waterproof Watch
- Casio Men’s G-Shock Quartz Resin Waterproof Watch
- Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X. Waterproof Watch
- Casio Men’s G-Shock Frogman Waterproof Watch
- Hamilton Khaki Field Black Waterproof Watch
- Garmin Fenix 3 HR Waterproof Watch
- Apple Series 5 Waterproof Watch
- Casio Men’s Classic Sport Waterproof Watch
- Timex Men’s Expedition Field Waterproof Watch
- Kids Digital Waterproof Sport Watch
- Timex Ironman Essential Waterproof Watch
- Casio Men’s Sport Analog Waterproof Dive Watch
- How to Choose the Best Waterproof Watch for Swimming?
- How Do Waterproof Watches Work?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Swim Network Overview
What Are Waterproof Watches?
A waterproof watch is built to have the regular appearance of a watch, however, both of its external and internal components are able to resist all water invasion. As being mentioned earlier, both mechanical and digital watches can acquire water resistance.
This type of watch includes the function of a waterproof fitness tracker, a triathlon watch or a stopwatch that is used underwater with no worries for aqua activities. It depends on the water-resistant depth rating of each watch to learn its water pressure limit.
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Water-Resistant vs Waterproof Watches
People often get the wrong idea of items being water-resistant and waterproof is the equivalent kind of water prevention. In contrast, these definitions are much different from each other. I would demonstrate how a water-resistant and a waterproof watch operate.
- Water-resistant: It means the watch has the power to prevent water from coming in to some extent but not entirely. There are still possible chances that water might ruin this watch, consequently, it should be worn around light and shallow water areas.
- Waterproof: If a watch is waterproof, it means that it utterly stops water penetration and blocks all possible risks for water to invade. This watch is definitely considered far safer than water-resistant ones because it can be soaked up in the water but still functions.
What Is the Best Waterproof Watch?
Waterproof watches are among the most popular accessories for swimmers of all sexualities and ages, thus the number of reliable watch brands on the market is countless. You will need help to filter out the best waterproof watches for swimming available.
- Best Overall: Seiko Divers Automatic Waterproof Watch
“50h power reserve, divers extension bracelet, mineral crystal.” - Best Cheap: Casio Men’s Classic Sport Waterproof Watch
“Economical price, personalized display, adjustable buckle clasp.” - Best for Boys: Timex Boys Digital Waterproof Watch
“Kids loss protection plan, washable strap, light-up dial face.” - Best for Women: Armitron Sport Women’s Waterproof Watch
“Quick buckle closure, multiple color choices, dual time zones.” - Best for Men: Seiko Men’s Automatic Analogue Waterproof Watch
“Runs without battery, unidirectional bezel, 42mm case diameter.” - Best Waterproof Watches Under $50: Casio Men’s G-Shock Quartz Resin Waterproof Watch
“Shock-resistant case, measuring mode, auto calendar to 2039.” - Best Waterproof Watches Under $200: Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X. Waterproof Watch
“Highly resilient form, hypoallergenic steel, originality from Swiss.” - Best for Sea: Casio Men’s G-Shock Frogman Waterproof Watch
“Interchangeable bands, magnetic-resistant, analog-digital dial.” - Best Luxury: Hamilton Khaki Field Black Waterproof Watch
“Black textile bracelet, quick tang clasp, Arabic numeral markers.” - Best With Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin Fenix 3 HR Waterproof Watch
“Sunlight-visible display, silicone band, wireless connectivity.” - Best With GPS: Apple Series 5 Waterproof Watch
“Always-On screen, noise app alerts, streams favorite songs.”
Comparison Chart
Because each waterproof watch is made to have different water-resistant depths, we need to compare them to see which are the most suitable and best waterproof watches for swimming. There are other critical standards like the watch material and dimensions as well.
The 15 Best Waterproof Watches for Swimming Reviews
We all know that waterproof watches are complex in all of their minor details from the inside out. It is absolutely challenging for new users to look for information on their own, so I have conducted thorough research of the best waterproof watches for swimming to present here.
Seiko Divers Automatic Waterproof Watch
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
Seiko has claimed their name in the field to be a famous Japanese watch brand for a long time. This waterproof watch is the best overall one so far with a self-winding movement and Lumibrite-treated hands and markers to turn luminous in the dark.
It has a solid case back that is etched and screw-down to protect inner parts against falling out. The silver watch reaches high time precision from -15 to +25 seconds per day. Its 200m water-resistant depth is excellent for users who like to go scuba diving.
The stainless steel bracelet of this watch ensures it never rusts when making contact with water. This waterproof Seiko watch has a double-locking mechanism that comes with a fold-over push-button clasp. A box package and a user manual are included.
Pros
- It has a self-winding movement.
- The luminous hands & markers.
- Its case back is firmly screwed.
- Time accuracy -15 to +25 secs.
- The bracelet is stainless steel.
- It includes a Seiko user manual.
Cons
- Its blue dial is on the dull side.
Timex Boys Digital Waterproof Watch
(Best for Boys)
Even little boys should be welcomed to keep track of time and that is how the brand Timex intrigues their parents with a fun, comfortable waterproof watch. The external decoration of this watch with flames and camo will make them look fashionable and strong.
Its fabric strap is about 17mm long and is washable, so there should not be worries related to kids splashing water and dirt around. This watch works as a chronograph but at the same time, provides a helpful countdown timer and a customizable alarm.
The watch from Timex has a square digital display that is simple to read. In addition, there is a button called Indiglo on the bottom of its resin case and it would light up the watch dial when being pushed. Its 30m water-resistant depth can resist the rain.
Pros
- It has a fashionable look for boys.
- Its 17mm fabric strap is washable.
- A chronograph, timer and alarm.
- The easy-to-read digital display.
- It has a button for the dial lighting.
- Its depth can be used in the rain.
Cons
- It may lose a few mins a week.
Armitron Sport Women’s Waterproof Watch
(Best for Women)
With a small case size of 25mm, this Armitron waterproof watch definitely has a more delicate design to suit women. Its top ring is polished to the best condition and made out of stainless steel. A bunch of watch colors is available for the resin strap.
The watch does include the military time of 24-hour settings and it also allows users to set up an extra time zone. Its backlight ensures that people can still manage to see the time in poor-light situations. It will have a beeping sound when there is an alarm.
Both its strap and case are constructed from resin, which is considered a durable material for most digital waterproof watches on the market. The LCD screen of this women’s watch from Armitron shows the time to seconds together with the day and date.
Pros
- The case size is for women.
- The top ring is well-polished.
- It has dual time zone settings.
- The alarm beeps if going off.
- Its strap and case are resin.
- Its LCD displays time & date.
Cons
- Its lifetime is measured short.
Seiko Men’s Automatic Analogue Waterproof Watch
(Best for Men)
Most swimmers are satisfied with the automatic Japanese movement of this Seiko watch because it is high-quality and operates smoothly with no battery required. Its dial covering is made out of mineral crystal that protects it entirely from scratches.
So far, one of the largest watch case sizings is 42mm so this watch is ideal to help men look even more masculine. Since it resists water up to 200m, users can wear it while going recreational scuba diving without fear that water might infiltrate its inner parts.
Pros
- It works with no battery needed.
- The dial cover is mineral crystal.
- Its 42mm case size is for men.
- It can be worn in scuba diving.
Cons
- It loses time if not being used.
Casio Men’s G-Shock Quartz Resin Waterproof Watch
(Best Waterproof Watches Under $50)
There are lots of people who wish to acquire a specific price range for easier watch classification, so the best waterproof watch under $50 is claimed to be this one from Casio. With such a bargain, a 46.4mm case size with mineral crystal dial cover are amazing.
Its backlight function is a special electro-luminescent mode with effective afterglow to see the time without light. Daily alarm and hourly signal settings are available for the waterproof watch. The time accuracy will only shift around 15 seconds in a month.
For people who require a few extra measuring modes, this Casio waterproof watch contains a built-in 1/100 second stopwatch with elapsed time and split time. You may select either the 12 or 24-hour format. Its normal battery life would be about 2 years.
Pros
- It has a low price of under $50.
- The large case size of 46.4mm.
- Its EL backlight is convenient.
- Its timing shifts 15 secs/month.
- It includes stopwatch & splitting.
- The normal 2-year battery life.
Cons
- The strap fails to stay attached.
Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X. Waterproof Watch
(Best Waterproof Watches Under $200)
At the higher price range of waterproof watches under $200, there is a great option from the Swiss brand Victorinox. The sapphire crystal dial covering is made to be anti-reflective and it has 3 layers of coating to ensure this watch is scratch-resistant.
By having a classic look for casual menswear but still luxurious enough for nights out, the watch is of truly flexible accessories at a low-budget. This brand has crafted the stainless steel watch case to be hypoallergenic so there would no irritation for users.
Even when you like to go deep-sea diving, this Victorinox watch is capable of brilliantly resisting water penetration at the depths of 200m. Its protection bumper is removable. The watch can display military time together with the date calendar.
Pros
- Its overall price is amazingly low.
- The triple-coated AR dial window.
- It is flexible for most occasions.
- Its case is hypoallergenic steel.
- It can be worn during sea divings.
- It shows military time & the date.
Cons
- Its quartz is said to be too thick.
Casio Men’s G-Shock Frogman Waterproof Watch
(Best for Sea)
Because the G-Shock product line of Casio has long been known to fight all impact forces and water pressure, this watch is certainly a strong opponent on the market that provides 200m water-resistant. Its extra-luminescent backlight is automatic.
It can display the world timer with 31 different time zones to suit diverse regions. If people wish to use the measuring mode, there is a stopwatch, countdown timer and split timer available in the watch. 5 alarms in total would replace an old alarm clock.
The time precision tends to alter from -15 to +15 seconds per month, which is highly acceptable compared to other waterproof watches. This Casio watch even includes a battery power indicator and a power-saving mode to preserve its solar rechargeable battery.
Pros
- It resists impacts and water.
- It has 31 different time zones.
- Versatile measuring modes.
- There are 5 alarms available.
- Its time accuracy is great.
- It saves the battery in use.
Cons
- The illumination at a low rate.
Hamilton Khaki Field Black Waterproof Watch
(Best Luxury)
Without a doubt, the waterproof watch from Hamilton is seen as the most luxurious one on this list due to the high price and sophisticated all-around details. Its bezel material is from titanium. The watch dial contains luminescent hands and markers.
The fine dial covering of this waterproof watch is made from sapphire crystal, which is popular for its sturdiness and scratch-resistant ability. Its automatic movement has a reliable origin from Swiss. Additional minute markers are shown on the outer rim.
This Hamilton watch can be imported from other countries or manufactured directly in the USA. The current date would be displayed at the position of 3 o’clock on this watch dial. Its tang clasp is said to be quick and convenient for a waterproof watch closure.
Pros
- Its sophistication is great.
- It includes a titanium bezel.
- Its dial covering is sapphire.
- The Swiss auto movement.
- It has extra minute markers.
- It can be made in the USA.
Cons
- The rotor gets stuck at ease.
Garmin Fenix 3 HR Waterproof Watch
(Best With Heart Rate Monitor)
In case users need a better alternative to chest straps while participating in aqua events, the Garmin measuring technology provides precise heart rate data right from the wrist. Its silicone band is both soft and flexible that does not stand a chance to discolor.
The watch dial obtains high-resolution viewing and extra backlight to help access the data in all light conditions. There are 3 modes of this waterproof watch for battery life preservation at certain time lengths. Its satellite reception is powerful and effective.
Pros
- A wrist-based heart monitor.
- It has a durable soft band.
- The dial is good for reading.
- It is able to save battery life.
- It connects with a satellite.
Cons
- It does not auto track sleep.
See Also: 9 Best Waterproof Heart Rate Monitors for Swimming
Apple Series 5 Waterproof Watch
(Best With GPS)
People all over the world are definitely familiar with Apple’s digital devices and one of the most successful product lines is the Apple Watch. It includes a wide range of watch faces for customers to personalize them and make their own marks with this watch.
Besides the heart rate monitor and cycle tracking app, the watch is equipped with a precise GPS navigation and a built-in compass. Of course, the sapphire crystal dial cover is the most expensive coating material. Its digital crown also contains haptic feedback.
This Apple package has already included a 1m-long charging cable for users to charge the waterproof watch after a maximum of 18 hours. Wearing this digital watch enables us to stay connected and download apps without the need for an iPhone.
Pros
- It has customized watch faces.
- The built-in GPS & compass.
- Haptic feedback in the crown.
- It contains a magnetic charger.
- Battery life survives 18 hours.
- It allows direct app download.
Cons
- The band breaks and falls apart.
Casio Men’s Classic Sport Waterproof Watch
(Best Cheap)
If active athletes are looking for an optimal waterproof watch with a low budget, this one from Casio should be on the top recommended list. There is a mineral window equipped to cover its dial face, which displays time along the day, date and month.
The watch has approximately 10 years of battery life and it is impressive among a lot of other waterproof ones as most will not survive that long. It has a LED backlight that is quite helpful in the dark. Users can see the world time of 31 time zones on it.
Moreover, this waterproof Casio watch also includes convenient built-in features like countdown timer, stopwatch to the seconds and daily alarms. The black watchband is made out of sustainable resin and its buckle clasp is easily adjustable to secure it.
Pros
- Its price is in the low range.
- It tells time, date and month.
- The battery life is 10 years.
- 31 time zones are viewable.
- Countdown and stopwatch.
- A durable resin watchband.
Cons
- Its alarm may turn itself on.
Timex Men’s Expedition Field Waterproof Watch
(Best Vintage Vibe)
For a long time, the waterproof watch from Timex has impressed a lot of customers, thanks to its large 43mm case made out of brass and a real 20mm leather strap. All of these details combined into a masculine vintage vibe for menswear at all events.
With fair similarities to a stopwatch, its chronograph enables time measuring at a maximum rate of 1/20 second. The quick date feature allows users to set up the date on it without turning the crown after 24 hours. Its battery life can last up to 5 years.
The Arabic numerals engraved on this Timex watch are arranged in increments from 5 to 60. It has the special Indiglo mode to light up the entire dial window in the dark for a better time tracking. Its 100m water-resistant depth is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Pros
- Its case and strap are cool.
- It can run like a stopwatch.
- It has a quick date setting.
- It has 5 years of battery life.
- It contains Arabic numerals.
- The dial light Indiglo mode.
Cons
- The chronograph is crude.
Kids Digital Waterproof Sport Watch
(Best for Kids)
If you happen to look for a waterproof watch that suits both genders for your kids, then this one from cofuo is an excellent choice. The soft rubber band will not be abrasive to their sensitive skin. Its large dial allows easy time reading in the dark.
With the water-resistant depth of 50m, kids can wear them freely while swimming or having a shower. There is a small window placed on this watch dial for viewing the calendar date. All of its functional buttons are simple to press and have instructions.
Pros
- It functions for both boys & girls.
- The watchband is comfortable.
- It resists water while swimming.
- It has a window to view date.
- Its buttons are easy to operate.
Cons
- Its seconds hand moves around.
Timex Ironman Essential Waterproof Watch
(Best Sports Stopwatch)
In terms of a waterproof watch with an optimal sporty design, a majority of users vote for this watch from Timex. Not only does the watch include a countdown timer and an alarm, but it also provides an effective stopwatch of 10 lap memory to benefit users.
The quick buckle clasp is approved to be quick and convenient closure for a lot of watches. Its dial window can be lightened up with the Indiglo mode to be able to view time measurement in poor light conditions. This stationary bezel does not rotate.
Pros
- The watch style is sporty.
- It is used as a stopwatch.
- Its buckle clasp is simple.
- The dial is lightened up.
Cons
- No protective film on its face.
Casio Men’s Sport Analog Waterproof Dive Watch
The Casio men’s waterproof watch is certainly one of the most excellent ones with full resin material from its case to the band. This watch band is molded and has a buckle closure. The bezel is bi-directional rotatable with markers and numbers.
Its mineral crystal coating of the dial window is solid and performs well to prevent all external impacts, mostly surface scratching. The watch analog includes 3 hands to view their users with hour, minute and second.
You can either choose the format of 12 or 24-hour for display on this watch as wish. The current day and date are positioned in a box at 3’ o clock like a majority of other watches. Its time accuracy is claimed by the brand to shift from -20 to +20 seconds a month.
Pros
- It is made entirely from resin.
- The buckle closure is simple.
- A non-scratch mineral dial.
- It contains a 3-hand analog.
- It allows 12/24-hour settings.
- It tells the current day & date.
Cons
- Its crown might turn defective.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Watch for Swimming?
We all know that taking into account all features to purchase a waterproof watch is far more than comfortable straps, a built-in stopwatch or sustainable battery life. You should be conscious of more complex but crucial factors to help get the perfect one.
Optimal Case Diameter
Since men’s and women’s watches are varied in their case sizings, this factor should be acknowledged well to ensure the watch will fit and look comfortable on its user. You would absolutely feel good when a watch fits the wrist.
According to modern tastes, watch cases from 23 to 29mm is for standard women, whereas 37 to 39mm is often for men. Sports watches have case measurements of around 40 to 42mm, whilst oversized ones are above 45mm and look better on men.
This is for potential customers to consult without means to force them into following the mentioned case diameters, no matter what their sexualities are. Just feel free to choose a watch with a suitable case that is not too small and not too big on the wrist.
Mechanical/Digital Watch
Most waterproof watches function with the help of batteries from a 2 to 10-year lifespan. On the other hand, digital ones like an Apple Watch requires charging and a compatible charger would be provided in the pack.
Furthermore, there are available waterproof watches with an integrated automatic movement that relies on the wrist to run them. Expensive mechanical watches would be the best examples but some of them might miss the time when not being shaken.
Either mechanical or digital watches are brilliant timepieces so it is up to your own personal taste and condition to select an ideal one. Things are quite the same for these two kinds, except for a few different advanced features. Pick one that is most convenient.
Waterproof Depth Rating
In terms of the waterproof depth rating of a watch, the common levels are 30m, 50m, 100m and 200m. Each of these measurements is equated with certain suitable aqua activities that can avoid damaging the watch.
30m is the ideal rate for wearing that watch under the rain or light water splashes. A bit further of a 50m waterproof watch would endure water from quick swimming and snorkeling, even poolside diving. These two levels have low protection from water.
To raise the bar, loads of brands equip their watches with a 100m resistance rating of water for surviving through above water-related cases and surfing as well. So far, the deepest level is 200m that is able to handle recreational sea divers without damage.
How Do Waterproof Watches Work?
When a watch is being made waterproof, the builder makes sure that no sort of liquid can penetrate into the watch movement. This added feature requires more complex manufacturing in order to seal necessary parts from potential risks of water invasion.
All waterproof watch creators focus on strengthening the watch gaskets, which are usually manufactured from nylon or rubber to create seals on important joints. These joints are responsible for merging the dial cover, crown and case back to the case.
In addition, sufficient thickness and case material are vital factors in completing how a waterproof watch successfully performs. The best suggestion is stainless steel and titanium for the case. Other details include a screw-in case back and crown for tight sealing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about waterproof watches for swimming.
Swim Network Overview
A waterproof watch is a fine durable timepiece that resists the infiltration of water into its internal parts, thus, it can be worn underwater for most aqua activities. Having such a watch is ideal for the summer for its users to keep a close track of time in the pool.
Among all reviewed waterproof watches, the best overall is utterly the Seiko Divers Automatic Waterproof Watch. On the market, the most optimal watch selection for heading out the ocean has got to be the Casio Men’s G-Shock Frogman Waterproof Watch.
If people are searching for the best watch under $200, I would suggest the Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X Waterproof Watch. While the best one with GPS is Apple Series 5 Waterproof Watch. Ladies should wear the Armitron Sport Women’s Waterproof Watch.
It would not be surprising if no watch in this article is appealing enough to catch your attention. Nevertheless, I hope you would take advantage of the buying guide above and other helpful personal tips conducted by my experience for your future shopping time.
Do you have any other opinions to make about this article of the best waterproof watches for swimming in 2024? Please kindly drop them in the comment section. Moreover, I believe your friends and loved ones would feel delighted to read such an informative article via the sharing function to websites like Facebook and Twitter.
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