The Breitling Watch Source Forums

My Airwolf says that it is water-resistant to 5 bars. I wonder what that REALLY means? Am I going to have issues if it gets wet occasionally? Thoughts anyone?

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Out of Breitlings, Need MORE.

Summary here - http://www.breitlingsource.com/articles ... ance.shtml

The water resistance ratings are always given in static water pressure so you can't use them as depth ratings, but that article is a good summary.

Super. Thanks, Roffensian!

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Out of Breitlings, Need MORE.

I had some repair done on my Tag years ago after 10 years and many dives in the Caribbean. While the repair had nothing to do with possible water damage, at that time the tech mentioned that for many watches that are rated 100m and higher (or lower I guess dependent on your depth), they may develop issues with repetitive dives at shallower depths (hence less pressure) over long periods since the design somewhat counts upon the pressure to fully compress any water tight or compression rings.

The knowledge and experience expressed in this forum never ceases to amaze me, so I was wondering about your thoughts or observations when it comes to Breitling's in particular? Has anyone experienced any issues over an extended period of time with possible water infiltration issues?

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Tom
Spending 2009, yet again, dead for tax purposes...
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Breitling Chronomat Two-Tone - Blue dial circa 2008
Tag Heuer 980.029 Black circa 1992

I don't dive, but I've never heard of that problem. There are certainly potential issues with worn seals and if you do dive frequently with the watch then the recommendation is to get the seals changed every 12 months or so.

Not heard of that myself. However as Roff says, diving will cause the seals and gaskets to wear out faster due to the salt water (and chlorine if you swim in swimming pools). It's the degradation of the rubber due to chemicals and salt water that causes the problem not small repeated pressure differentials.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

my airwolf swims, kayaks kitesurfs & wakeboards. Won't hurt it, but 5 bars is limited to swimming strictly. Most reputable watches will withstand more, but its better for manufactures to be more conservative.

Thanks for the insights.... There was just enough plausible reasoning behind the tech's explanation at the time that I could not merely dismiss it totally, but not grounded in enough fact or experience so I continued to get the watch and myself wet and enjoy life with no issues so far.

Thanks again..........

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Tom
Spending 2009, yet again, dead for tax purposes...
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Breitling Chronomat Two-Tone - Blue dial circa 2008
Tag Heuer 980.029 Black circa 1992