I started writing this draft on June 10. It was a truly dreary time, with overcast skies lingering for nearly a week.
It’s June, so it’s only natural that it rains, but this is different from what used to be called the “rainy season.” It starts pouring down suddenly, so if you make a casual guess based on the sky—thinking, “I wonder if it’ll be okay today?”—you’re almost guaranteed to regret it.
That folding umbrella in my bag is actually pretty heavy, isn’t it… (；´Д｀)
“A sudden downpour”… Great!! In that case, it’s “Divers”!!
As someone who wears a wristwatch every single day, I’m actually more worried about the wristwatch on my left wrist than I am about getting soaked myself. Even if I chose a wristwatch after carefully weighing that day’s weather against its water resistance, if it’s exposed to rain that exceeds its water resistance rating, the risk of water seeping inside inevitably increases.
In fact, I have a “memory I’d rather forget” of getting several of my 100-meter (10 atm) water-resistant wristwatches—and even some 200-meter models—waterlogged during torrential downpours, such as those brought by typhoons or sudden downpours.
Don’t underestimate the power of raindrops that pick up speed as they’re whipped by the wind. That deep sense of despair you feel when you see your watch crystal fogged up from the inside… If left unchecked, it will cause water stains on the dial and corrode the hands and hour markers—nothing good will come of it.
My Wristwatch Got Wet!! Here’s What to Do Without Panicking or Making a Fuss
“The crystal’s all fogged up!!!”… I totally get why you’d want to yell that. But let’s try to calm down for a second (；´∀｀)
The fact that moisture has seeped in is undeniable. From here on out, the question is, “What can we do to prevent the situation from getting any worse?”
If you do anything unnecessary here, there’s a high chance it will only make the situation worse. As the saying goes, “Half-baked strategies lead to serious trouble.”
Wipe off any moisture on the case or bracelet
To prevent further water damage, use an absorbent cloth to wipe away all visible moisture. When doing so, it’s best to avoid cloths that shed lint or fibers, as this could lead to problems unrelated to the water damage.
Once you’ve thoroughly wiped off the moisture, place the watch in a sealable bag along with “desiccant, such as silica gel,” and take it directly to a professional watch repair shop. This is the best way to ensure your beloved watch continues to enjoy a long and healthy life (as a watch).
Prohibited Actions: Operating the Crown or Pushers
Even if you wipe away all the visible moisture, moisture can still linger in the crevices.
If you accidentally operate parts that are directly connected to the internal mechanism—such as the “crown” or “chronograph pushers”—moisture that was barely contained in the narrow gaps of the case could suddenly seep inside.
Since it is absolutely essential to prevent moisture from entering the movement at all costs, please refrain from operating the crown and pushers.
What Not to Do: Open the caseback and dry it with a hair dryer
A watch movement is a precision mechanism made from various materials. You might think that since it’s made of metal, it can easily withstand hot air, but metal that has been thinned to its limit can easily warp even from the heat of a hair dryer. Although the silicone oil applied to the parts is heat-resistant, degradation is still inevitable.
To begin with, when opening the caseback, moisture from the gaps could seep inside, and any worsening of the situation will directly lead to higher repair costs. To avoid incurring unnecessary expenses, it is essential to proceed with caution.
That’s Why You’ll Want to Choose a “Summer Dive Watch”
The season when we roll up the sleeves of our long-sleeved shirts and transition to full-fledged short sleeves… “Summer.” It is precisely during “Summer”—when dress watches, which have taken center stage throughout fall, winter, and spring, begin to look out of place on bare wrists—that “dive watches” truly shine.
Even in the dead of winter, there’s a place for dive watches. They pair perfectly with puffy down jackets, and there are actually quite a few occasions where deliberately wearing a dive watch in winter—that “unexpected” touch—really stands out.
But, after all, “dive watches are for summer.” The blazing sun, young lovers running along the sandy beach… On their wrists, colorful “dive watches.” There’s simply no other way. While I personally don’t have such vivid memories of my youth, this is the classic image most people associate with dive watches.
However, isn’t what most city dwellers look for in a dive watch… “high water resistance”? Even if you don’t plan on going to the beach, the reason you buy a dive watch is that you need a watch that can easily handle the intense weather fluctuations typical of summer and the sweat that pours off you.
I want to choose a watch with reliable “200m water resistance”
Hour markers made with luminescence on the rotating bezel. Even if a watch has design features that scream “diver’s watch,” it might actually only be “water-resistant to 10 atm”… that kind of thing happens.
Even those “diver-style watches with low water resistance”—which often draw comments like, “Come on, are these just fake diver’s watches?”—are perfectly fine for everyday use.
General Measures of Water Resistance in Wristwatches
| Water-resistant to 3 atmospheres (3 BAR) | This refers to what is commonly known as “water-resistant for daily use.” It’s fine if a few water droplets come into contact with the product. However, it is not recommended for activities such as washing dishes or washing your face. |
|---|---|
| Water-resistant to 5 atmospheres (5 BAR) | Also known as “water-resistant for daily use,” these gloves can be worn while washing dishes or cleaning the bathtub. |
| Water-resistant to 10 atmospheres (10 BAR) | This product is also classified as “Enhanced Water Resistance for Daily Use.” It is considered safe for light exposure to water. |
| Water-resistant to 20 atmospheres (20 BAR) | You can swim normally. However, it cannot withstand diving or situations involving sudden water pressure. Mild water sports are about the right level. |
| Water-resistant to 100 meters | Unlike models rated for 10 atmospheres, this model is designed to withstand 1.25 times that water pressure, so it can be used even while engaging in underwater activities. However, its performance margin isn’t particularly large, so you shouldn’t rely on it too heavily. |
| Water-resistant to 200 meters | It can also withstand activities like snorkeling. This is where true dive watches come into play. However, even these watches may not always live up to their advertised performance, so please check to see if they comply with international dive watch standards. |
| Water-resistant to 300 meters | Activities such as scuba diving are possible in deep water. |
However, as I mentioned earlier, summer thunderstorms are unexpectedly fierce. Even the amount of sweat is staggering—nothing like what you experience in winter.
That’s why, personally, I believe that on days when heavy rain is forecast, you can feel secure with a watch that’s “water-resistant to 200 meters or more.” By the way, let’s say it starts raining on a day when you don’t have an umbrella. In that case, my “practical standard for water resistance” looks something like this:
Rain Intensity and Reliable Water Resistance
| Rain Intensity | Rainfall in one hour | Reliable Water Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Light rain | up to 1 mm/h | Water-resistant to 100 meters (10 atmospheres) |
| Light rain | 1–10 mm/h | |
| Moderately heavy rain | 10–20 mm/h | |
| Heavy rain | 20–30 mm/h | Water-resistant to 150 meters (15 atmospheres) |
| Heavy rain | 30–50 mm/h | |
| Extremely heavy rain | 50–80 mm/h | Water-resistant to 200 meters (20 atmospheres) |
| Torrential rain | 80 mm/h or more |
These are, after all, just “insights gained from past failures,” but broadly speaking, you could say that “for ordinary rain, 100-meter water resistance is sufficient.” If I were wearing a watch rated for 30 or 50 meters of water resistance, I—being naturally a bit of a worrier—would definitely take it off and stash it in my bag.
In everyday life, we don’t often have opportunities to get soaked from head to toe like Roy or Deckard in the movie *Blade Runner* (1982), but for someone like me who’s been through the wringer with a 100-meter water resistance rating, the only thing that gives me peace of mind is “twice” that—a “200-meter water resistance” rating.
Horizontal rain that renders an umbrella useless. In conditions that are practically the same as being submerged, the only thing that can be called a “true tough guy”—one that keeps going without batting an eye—is a dive watch rated “water-resistant to 200 meters”… With that in mind, I’d like to introduce a few “affordable dive watches” that you can buy right away.
“Mechanical dive watches with water resistance of 20 atm or more that you can buy for around 100,000 yen”
In recent years, the prices of wristwatches have continued to soar, and the prices of mechanical watches, in particular, seem to know no bounds. Even so, there are some wonderful mechanical dive watches available in the 100,000-yen price range—a real bargain. Let’s start with “Tissot—a global brand,” which is arguably the leading example of such a wonderful brand!!
Tissot SEASTAR 1000 43mm T120.407.11.091.01
Given that it features a Swiss-quality “80-hour power reserve automatic movement” in this price range, you simply have to call it a great deal. If you’re a fan of Tissot’s distinctive, quirky designs, this is a watch that’s sure to satisfy anyone.
The 43-millimeter case is quite large, but while some people prefer sleek, smaller watches for dress watches, others prefer a bold, substantial look for divers’ watches. Since it’s summer after all, it might be fun to go all out and embrace the idea of “spending the season with this big guy.”
You don’t have to worry about water resistance either. It boasts a rugged “300m water resistance.“ With its screw-down crown, you can wear it with confidence in any kind of inclement weather.
The bezel ring is made of “ceramic,” and the crystal is “sapphire crystal.” The “Seastar 1000 43mm” boasts specs that are as powerful as a bodybuilder’s muscles, yet it is also a beautifully crafted watch.
The price is “135,300 yen.“
Tissot SEASTAR 1000 40mm T120.807.11.051.00
This is the “Sea Star 1000 40mm,” which is 3mm smaller. I’m a big fan of the 40mm size myself, but when it comes to ease of use, I definitely recommend this one. It blends seamlessly into everyday life and can be worn on any occasion.
Like the 43mm model, it has a water resistance rating of “300m (30 atm).” In terms of visual differences aside from size, the 40mm model features a bezel ring made of “mineral crystal.” It has a unique, floating appearance, offering a feel that’s a bit different from a ceramic bezel.
The luminescence used on the hour markers glows brightly, too. Diver’s watches with weak luminescence instantly look cheap, after all.
The only thing that bothers me a bit is the bracelet’s “buckle.” Given the price, I suppose it’s understandable, but the 40mm model I own had a certain “clack-clack” sound to it that, in a way, felt nostalgic. On the flip side, that’s really the only thing I have to complain about—it’s a fantastic dive watch.
The price is “121,000 yen.“
Seiko Prospex Diver’s 1965 Heritage limited edition HBC005J
I’m a big fan of the “1965” myself, but this is *the one*!! It fits my average Japanese physique—and blends perfectly into the Japanese lifestyle—so well that I feel like if I prayed to the Goddess of the Spring, asking her to “please give me a diver’s watch made for Japanese people,” this is exactly what she’d grant me. Every time I put it on, I can’t help but agree: “This really is a masterpiece.”
What’s more, the latest “Divers 1965 Heritage” is equipped with the “Cal. 6R55” movement, which has a 3-day power reserve. Its water resistance has also been upgraded to “300m.”The 1965 model I bought—commonly known as the “Ohtani Model”—is water-resistant to 200m, so that might be a pretty big difference for a diver’s watch. I’m secretly a little jealous (laughs).
This “Prospex Divers 1965 Heritage” is a limited edition model commemorating Seiko’s 145th anniversary. The blue accents—known as “Seiko Blue”—further accentuate the unique silhouette that traces its roots to Japan’s first domestically produced dive watch.
The price is “192,500 yen.“
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Seiko Prospex Diver Scuba Mechanical PADI 60th Anniversary limited edition model HBB002J
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), the world’s largest diving education organization, is celebrating its 60th anniversary.In 2026, which also marks the 10th anniversary of its partnership with Seiko, the “Diver Scuba Mechanical PADI 60th Anniversary Limited Edition (HBB002J)” was released to commemorate PADI’s 60th anniversary.
The distinctive, voluminous barrel-shaped case is 45 mm wide. It might be a bit too imposing for everyday wear around town… but in return, its “200-meter diving water resistance” makes it an absolutely reliable companion.
The movement is the “4R36.” It’s certainly a step down from the 6R. While there’s no end to the discussion when it comes to fine details of accuracy, personally, I think it’s a movement that offers stable performance with few malfunctions.
What stands out the most is probably the total weight of “198g,” which matches its apparent size. Of course, for muscle-bound guys who are confident in their trapezius muscles, this isn’t a weight worth worrying about (lol).
The price is “107,800 yen.“
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“Less than 100,000 yen” Quartz dive watches Water-Resistant to 20 atm or More
I’ve listed some “mechanical diver’s watches” from recent collections that are available for around 100,000 yen, but among those of you who just happened to stumble upon this “watch den”—the Wristwatch Tearoom—there are probably some of you who are thinking,some of you might be thinking, “There’s no way I’m spending over 100,000 yen on a wristwatch!!” I get it. After all, I’m a guy who, deep down, keeps wishing for a “cheap but cool wristwatch.”
Given that, in the world of wristwatches, the general trend is clearly moving away from mechanical movements. With that in mind, I’d like to shift the focus of this discussion to “quartz watches (including solar-powered ones).”
Citizen Promaster MARINE LIGHT in BLACK Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Edition BN0264-53E
Um… Right now, the dive watch I’m debating whether or not to buy is the “MARINE BN0264-53E.“ I mean, just look at it. It’s got such classic good looks!!
It has water resistance up to 200 meters. As is typical of Citizen, it features “Class 1” magnetic resistance. The case width is 40.6 mm and the weight is 149 g. Everything about it is just right. Plus, the design is exceptionally well-balanced.
The combination of black and gold, reminiscent of the first model in the “LIGHT in BLACK” series, exudes exquisite elegance. When it comes to black watches, isn’t it now a choice between “Chanel or Citizen”? There have been almost no misses among the designs Citizen’s designers have produced in recent years.
The price is “89,100 yen.” I never thought it would drop so significantly below 100,000 yen… Citizen is truly impressive!!
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Citizen Promaster Marine BN0167-09W
Equipped with a light-powered Eco-Drive movement, it’s “water-resistant to 200 meters.” And, as you’d expect, it boasts “Class 1 magnetic resistance”—it’s an amazing watch… That’s the “MARINE BN0167-09W.”
The beautiful blue gradient dial is created using “structural color film.” Divers, please enjoy watching how the color changes in intricate ways as you descend.
The case size is “44 mm.” It’s by no means a small watch, but perhaps because of its refined design—the result of meticulous aesthetic attention to detail—it achieves a wonderful sense of balance for a watch. It has a sleek, “tuna can” shape and should be perfectly suitable for everyday city wear.
By the way, the urethane band is made from “BENEBiOL,” a resin material that resists deterioration. It’s great that it doesn’t fall apart after just a few years!!
The price is “63,800 yen.” Oh man… I really want it~ (；´∀｀)
Tissot SEASTAR 1000 38mm T120.217.17.041.00
This is the “Tissot Seastar 1000 38mm chronograph.” Despite its delicate appearance, it offers “30 bar water resistance” for absolute protection.
The sub-dial layout really screams “This is a quartz chronograph!”—but these days, that’s actually part of its charm. It’s got a certain charm to it, doesn’t it? (*´ω｀*)
The case diameter is “38 mm.” It’s a size that suits anyone—and even looks great on women.The design of the “date” display—which is often a source of discomfort in many watches—is also superb. The careful attention to detail that ensures the flow from the dot hour markers isn’t disrupted enhances the overall polish of the watch (even the small triangle on the side… it’s masterful!!)
The dial features a blue gradient that darkens toward the edge. While solid-color dials with a crisp, bold look are beautiful, gradient dials are also growing in popularity for the calm impression they convey to the viewer.
The price is “88,000 yen.“
Tissot Seastar 1000 40mm T120.410.11.091.00
Here’s another new release: the “Tissot Seastar 1000 40mm,” a quartz watch rated for “30 bar water resistance.”It features the long-time favorite “turquoise dial.” The black-outlined hands and hour markers add a touch of understated elegance. Even the extremely simple count-up bezel exudes a subtle sense of sophistication.
This is a diver’s watch with the classic “Tissot look.“ I feel like whether or not you get hooked on Tissot depends on whether you can grow to like this understated style.
It might not click right away. To be honest, that’s how I felt at first, too. But at some point, I realized there was a certain “charm” unique to Tissot’s designs. I’ve been a Tissot fan ever since.
The price is “74,800 yen.” For a Swiss-made watch at this price… Tissot really is a “god.”
TECHNE Marine Offshore Solar Meteorite Sky Blue
The “low-price, high-water-resistance” segment is dominated by the heavyweights of practical watches—Seiko, Citizen, and Tissot—but if you look carefully, other options will come to light.Here, I’d like to introduce “TECHNE”—a “hidden gem known only to those in the know” from H°M’S” WatchStore. It’s a diver’s watch with a surprisingly distinctive design.
According to H°M’S” WatchStore’s categorization, this watch falls under the “Fashion Watches” category, but for that category, it boasts a solid “20 atm water resistance.“ It looks like you won’t have to panic even if you get caught in a sudden downpour.
When I tried it on, the “classic 37mm-wide case” actually gave off a modern sense of balance. I suppose you could say it “doesn’t try too hard”… It looks stylish on the cuff.
The movement is the “MIYOTA·CITIZEN 2070 (Solar).” The colored meteorite on the dial is quite rare, and the beauty of the bezel, with its elegant luster, is truly captivating. Could this actually be a serious diver’s watch!?
The price is “74,800 yen.“
Finally… Your time will definitely come!! “Divers’ watches with water resistance of 200 meters (20 atmospheres) or more”—peace of mind you can count on.
Just the other day, I had the chance to talk with someone who enjoys surfing. During our conversation, they mentioned a “Seiko diver’s watch with 1,000-meter water resistance” as a memento from their younger days.It was likely a diver’s watch from before the Prospex line was established, and apparently, it was a huge hit in the surfing community over 20 years ago (I think it’s what we’d call a “tuna can” model today). Incidentally, the popular car at the time was the Familia.
While I was at it, I asked, “Did you use Copatone?” and she nodded vigorously, saying, “You really know your stuff!!” She told me emphatically that even now, her tanned skin is part of her identity. She’s definitely dark!! (lol)
“That was a great watch,“ the surfer said with a touch of nostalgia. Even now, he says, “I’m not interested in wristwatches in general, but dive watches are the exception,“ and that’s probably because dive watches have a specific, critical role to play in “the moment that really counts.“ It’s a connection you might not feel with wristwatches that lack distinctive functional features.
The “200-meter water-resistant watches” featured here may represent the lower limit where water resistance is recognized as a specialized feature.While 100 meters is considered “standard” and 150 meters is “a little above standard,” there are likely quite a few people who can’t help but react with an “Oh!” when they hear “200-meter water resistance.”
In reality, it’s just a step up from 150 meters to 50 meters, but once a watch is labeled “water-resistant to 200 meters,” its overall impression instantly shifts toward that of a “professional tool.”It’s just a subjective distinction, but since buying a wristwatch often comes down to that gut feeling, “high water resistance”—which might seem unnecessary for everyday use—can sometimes be the deciding factor that makes you open your wallet.
If you’ve already been caught in a few heavy downpours, you may consider “high water resistance” an absolute must-have when purchasing a wristwatch.
Even when you look at all the dive watches out there, you can’t seem to find one that really catches your eye… In times like these, I hope that “200-meter water resistance” can serve as a “trigger” for purchasing a reliable summer watch.
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