Can Wooden Watches Get Wet? What Splashproof Really Means
Wooden watch questions
A splash, yes. A soak, no. Here's what that means day to day.
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Quick answer: Wooden watches can handle a bit of water but they aren't waterproof. Ours are splashproof: rain, washing your hands and the odd splash are fine. Take it off for swimming, showering, baths, washing up and anything sweaty like the gym. If it does get soaked, dry it gently with a soft cloth and let it dry naturally at room temperature.
What splashproof means
Every watch we sell is rated splashproof. In plain English, it's built to cope with everyday moisture, not to be submerged. The movement inside is sealed against splashes, but water under pressure, like a shower jet or a swim, can get past the seals. Wood also doesn't like being soaked for long.
What's fine and what isn't
Fine
Rain, washing your hands, a splash from the sink, a damp day out.
Take it off
Showers, baths, swimming, the sea, hot tubs and saunas.
Also take it off
Washing up, washing the car, the gym and heavy sweating.
If it gets soaked
- Take it off and pat it dry with a soft, dry cloth.
- Leave it somewhere dry at room temperature. Don't put it on a radiator or use a hairdryer, as fast heat isn't kind to wood.
- Leave it to dry out in its own time. If a little moisture has got under the glass, it will clear naturally (see below).
Moisture under the glass
Now and then, a customer notices a little moisture or misting on the inside of the glass. Because a wooden watch isn't a fully sealed case, this can happen occasionally, especially after a change in temperature or a damp day. It's normal and nothing to worry about.
The best thing to do is take the watch off and leave it somewhere dry at room temperature. The moisture will clear on its own, and it won't leave any marks. Don't try to speed it up with heat.
Wearing it every day? A quick wipe now and then is all it needs. Our care guide has the details.
Why aren't wooden watches waterproof?
A waterproof watch relies on a solid steel or titanium case and screw-down parts built to hold back pressure. A wooden case is light and comfortable, but wood is a natural material that moves slightly with moisture, so it isn't suited to being underwater. That's the trade-off for a watch that's warm, light and a bit different.
If he needs a watch for swimming, a wooden one isn't the right buy, and we'd rather tell you that now. If it's an everyday watch, have a look at our wooden watches.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a wooden watch in the shower?
No. Showers are too much water under pressure. Take it off first.
Can I wear a wooden watch in the rain?
Yes. Our watches are splashproof, so rain and hand washing are fine.
What should I do if my wooden watch gets wet?
Pat it dry with a soft cloth and let it dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid radiators and hairdryers.
Why is there moisture inside my wooden watch glass?
Wooden watches aren't fully sealed, so a little moisture can occasionally appear inside the glass, often after a temperature change or a damp day. It's normal. Leave the watch somewhere dry at room temperature and it will clear naturally without leaving marks.
Can I swim with a wooden watch?
No. Wooden watches aren't made for swimming. Choose a steel dive or sports watch for that.
Got a question we haven't answered? Get in touch. We're a small family team in Stourbridge and we do reply.
James
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