Can I wear my watch in the shower?

This is a question we get asked a lot, and for good reason: between watches labeled "waterproof," "waterproof," and even mysterious labels like 3 ATM or 5 ATM, it's easy to get confused. So can you really wear your watch in the shower? Spoiler: it's not always a good idea.

Understanding the waterproofing indications

On most watches, you'll find an indication in meters (m) or ATM (atmospheres). Here's what that means:

• 3 ATM / 30 meters : Splash and rain resistant, but NOT shower or immersion resistant.

• 5 ATM / 50 meters : Splash and rain resistant BUT, contrary to popular belief, it's not recommended for showering. We'll explain this a little further down.

• 10 ATM / 100 meters : Suitable for swimming, showering and shallow water activities.

• 20 ATM and above : Designed for diving, no worries in the shower.

But be careful: these measurements do not correspond to actual immersion depth; they are laboratory tests with static pressure. Therefore, even a “50m” watch can react badly to a hot shower.

Why is showering risky for your watch?

Even if your watch is advertised as water resistant, showering presents specific risks :

• Hot water expands the joints and weakens the seal.

• Steam may leak into the housing if the seals are slightly worn.

• Soaps, shampoos, shower gels can attack materials (especially leather or textile straps).

Result: Over time, even a waterproof watch can suffer from repeated showers. Foggy glass, corrosion, premature wear of the strap... it's best to avoid these.

Bracelets: leather, steel or mesh?

Another important point: even if the case is waterproof, the bracelet is not necessarily !

• Leather strap : Do not use underwater. It may become deformed, harden, or deteriorate.

• Milanese mesh bracelet : withstands water better, but can rust if not properly dried.

• Stainless steel bracelet : more resistant, but requires a good rinse and drying after exposure to water.

If you really want to keep your watch in the shower, opt for a silicone or NATO strap , designed for intensive use.

And what about GUSTAVE & Cie watches?

At GUSTAVE & Cie, the majority of our watches are 5 ATM water resistant. This means they can withstand moderate exposure to water, such as hand washing or light rain. However, we strongly advise against wearing them in the shower. (The warranty will not apply.)

Our watches are built to last, but like any mechanical or delicate product, a little care can go a long way in extending their life.

Conclusion: caution and common sense

Can you wear your watch in the shower? Technically, it depends on the model. But in practice, it's best to take it off to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Even a well-designed watch deserves a minimum of precaution.

Our advice: remove it before showering. This will give it a longer lifespan and prevent unnecessary damage.