Best Watches for Swimming: Water-Resistant Timepieces for Every Budget

When it comes to swimming, not all watches are created equal. That “water-resistant” fashion watch might survive a splash at the sink, but immersion in a pool could spell disaster. Whether you’re a casual pool lounger, a dedicated lap swimmer, or an ocean enthusiast, finding the right water-friendly timepiece can be challenging.

I learned this lesson the hard way after ruining a “water-resistant” watch during a beach vacation years ago. The truth is that water resistance ratings matter, and understanding them is crucial to selecting a watch that can handle your aquatic lifestyle without ending up as a costly lesson.

From affordable options that won’t break the bank to premium dive watches built for serious underwater adventures, this guide will help you find the perfect swimming companion for your wrist.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings

Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s essential to understand what those water resistance numbers actually mean.

Water Resistance Ratings Explained

• 30 meters (3 ATM/3 bar): Resistant to minor water exposure (handwashing, rain). NOT suitable for swimming.
• 50 meters (5 ATM/5 bar): Suitable for swimming in shallow water, but not for snorkeling or diving.
• 100 meters (10 ATM/10 bar): Appropriate for recreational swimming, snorkeling, and water sports (not high-impact water sports).
• 200 meters (20 ATM/20 bar): Suitable for serious surface water sports, professional marine activity, and skin diving.
• 300+ meters (30+ ATM/30+ bar): Suitable for deep-sea diving.

The Truth About Water Resistance

Manufacturers’ ratings can be misleading. Here’s what you should know:

1. Dynamic vs. Static Pressure: Ratings are conducted under static conditions. The pressure from swimming strokes or diving into a pool can exceed the static rating.
2. Degradation Over Time: Seals and gaskets deteriorate, reducing water resistance. Regular testing is necessary to maintain rated protection.
3. Temperature Changes: Moving between hot and cold environments (like a hot tub and pool) can affect water resistance as materials expand and contract.
4. Pusher and Crown Operation: Never operate chronograph pushers or adjust the crown underwater, as this can allow water to enter the case.

For swimming, I recommend a minimum of 100 meters water resistance for peace of mind, regardless of what manufacturers claim is possible at lower ratings.

Best Swimming Watches Under $200

You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable swimming companion. These affordable options offer excellent water resistance and durability.

Casio G-Shock DW-5600

• Price: $70
• Water Resistance: 200 meters
• Case Size: 42.8mm
• Movement: Quartz digital

The quintessential tough watch, the G-Shock DW-5600 offers exceptional water resistance in an affordable, nearly indestructible package. Its resin case won’t corrode in pool chemicals or saltwater, and the digital display is easy to read underwater.

The simple, squared-off design has remained largely unchanged since the 1980s for good reason—it works. With basic features like a stopwatch, alarm, and backlight, it provides everything a swimmer needs without unnecessary complications.

For lap swimmers, the 1/100 second stopwatch function is particularly useful. While it lacks specialized swimming features found in more expensive watches, its reliability and value are unmatched at this price point.

Timex Ironman Classic 30

• Price: $55
• Water Resistance: 100 meters
• Case Size: 38mm
• Movement: Quartz digital

Purpose-built for athletes, the Ironman Classic offers 100-meter water resistance in an exceptionally lightweight package. The 30-lap memory and countdown timer make it perfect for training sessions.

The large display and Indiglo backlight ensure excellent visibility in all conditions, including murky pool water. The resin strap is comfortable when wet and dries quickly after swimming.

While not as rugged as the G-Shock, the Ironman’s sports-specific features and lower profile make it a favorite among serious lap swimmers who don’t want a bulky watch interfering with their stroke.

Casio Duro MDV106-1A

• Price: $70
• Water Resistance: 200 meters
• Case Size: 44mm
• Movement: Quartz

Often called the “Casio Mariner,” this affordable dive-style watch offers incredible value with its 200-meter water resistance and classic styling. The rotating bezel allows for basic timing of swim sessions or snorkeling adventures.

What makes the Duro special is how it combines legitimate dive watch functionality with a price point typically reserved for much less capable timepieces. The screw-down crown ensures water resistance integrity, and the luminous hands and markers provide decent visibility underwater.

While large at 44mm, the relatively thin profile allows it to wear comfortably during swimming. The only downside is the included rubber strap, which many owners replace with a NATO or better-quality rubber option for about $20.

Best Swimming Watches Under $500

Moving up in price brings improved quality, better materials, and additional features specifically designed for water activities.

Seiko SKX007/SKX009

• Price: $350-450 (discontinued but widely available)
• Water Resistance: 200 meters
• Case Size: 42mm
• Movement: Automatic (7S26)

Though officially discontinued, the legendary Seiko SKX remains widely available and represents perhaps the best value in automatic dive watches. ISO-certified for scuba diving, it’s more than capable of handling any swimming scenario.

The robust automatic movement doesn’t require battery changes, and the day/date function proves practical for vacation use. The deeply knurled bezel can be operated with wet hands, and the Lumibrite luminous material on the hands and markers provides excellent low-light visibility.

What makes the SKX special is its combination of serious tool watch credentials, rugged reliability, and timeless design that works as well with swim trunks as it does with casual attire after leaving the pool.

Citizen Promaster Diver BN0150-28E

• Price: $295
• Water Resistance: 200 meters
• Case Size: 44mm
• Movement: Eco-Drive (solar quartz)

The Citizen Promaster combines serious dive watch specs with the practicality of solar power. The Eco-Drive movement eliminates battery changes, making it particularly suited for a watch that might sit in a drawer during non-swimming seasons.

The generous lume application and bold hand design ensure excellent underwater visibility, while the ratcheting dive bezel provides precise timing for swim sets or snorkeling sessions. The included polyurethane strap is comfortable when wet and designed to accommodate wetsuit sleeves.

For those who want a dedicated swimming watch that requires minimal maintenance, the Promaster’s combination of ruggedness and solar power makes it an excellent choice.

Tissot Seastar 1000

• Price: $395
• Water Resistance: 300 meters
• Case Size: 43mm
• Movement: Quartz or Automatic (additional cost)

The Tissot Seastar brings Swiss quality to the sub-$500 price range, offering impressive 300-meter water resistance and a ceramic bezel that won’t fade from chlorine or saltwater exposure. The quartz version provides affordable access to Tissot’s quality, while automatic options are available at higher price points.

The three-link bracelet with diver’s extension allows for a secure fit over rashguards or thin wetsuits, while the sapphire crystal resists the scratches that can occur during active water sports.

What sets the Seastar apart from similarly priced watches is the attention to detail in the finishing—polished edges contrast with brushed surfaces, creating a watch that transitions well from water activities to casual evening wear.

Best Swimming Watches Under $1,500

This price range introduces higher-quality materials, more sophisticated movements, and enhanced water-specific features.

Oris Aquis Date

• Price: $1,200-1,500 (depending on version)
• Water Resistance: 300 meters
• Case Size: 39.5-43.5mm (various sizes available)
• Movement: Automatic (Sellita-based)

The Oris Aquis represents the sweet spot of quality, design, and value in Swiss dive watches. Available in multiple sizes to fit different wrists, the Aquis features a ceramic bezel, sapphire crystal, and exceptional build quality throughout.

What distinguishes the Aquis for swimmers is the attention to functional details—the crown guards provide protection from impacts, the bracelet integrates seamlessly with the case to prevent snagging, and the clasp includes a tool-free micro-adjustment system for perfect fit as your wrist size changes in water.

The impressive 300-meter water resistance provides substantial overkill for swimming, offering peace of mind regardless of depth or activity. For those seeking one high-quality watch for both swimming and daily wear, the Aquis deserves serious consideration.

Mido Ocean Star 200

• Price: $990
• Water Resistance: 200 meters
• Case Size: 42mm
• Movement: Automatic (Caliber 80 with 80-hour power reserve)

The Mido Ocean Star offers exceptional value with its elaboré-grade movement featuring an 80-hour power reserve—a practical feature for a watch that might not be worn daily. The ceramic bezel insert resists scratches and won’t fade from sun or chlorine exposure.

What makes the Ocean Star particularly suitable for swimmers is its comfortable dimensions and thoughtfully designed bracelet with a diver’s extension. The anti-reflective sapphire crystal ensures clear legibility even in bright outdoor pool settings.

While less well-known than some competitors, Mido’s heritage in water-resistant watches dates back to the 1930s, and the current Ocean Star benefits from this experience while offering specifications that match or exceed more expensive alternatives.

Marathon GSAR (Government Issued Search and Rescue)

• Price: $1,100
• Water Resistance: 300 meters
• Case Size: 41mm
• Movement: Automatic (Sellita SW200)

Unlike most swimming watches focused on style and versatility, the Marathon GSAR is an uncompromising tool watch actually issued to military divers and search-and-rescue personnel. Its fiber-reinforced case, deeply knurled crown, and specialized SwissLume make it exceptionally functional in water environments.

The GSAR’s most distinctive feature is its tritium tube illumination, which glows continuously without requiring exposure to light—ideal for low-visibility water conditions or night swimming. The high-contrast dial and substantial bezel can be operated easily with wet or gloved hands.

For those who prioritize pure functionality and toughness over versatility, the Marathon GSAR represents a specialized tool that excels in aquatic environments. Its military heritage also ensures it contains no unnecessary frills that might compromise water integrity.

Best Premium Swimming Watches

For those with larger budgets seeking the ultimate in swimming timepieces, these options offer uncompromising quality and heritage.

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

• Price: $5,400
• Water Resistance: 300 meters
• Case Size: 42mm
• Movement: Automatic (Co-Axial Master Chronometer 8800)

Made famous as James Bond’s watch of choice, the Seamaster Diver 300M backs its stylish appearance with serious technical credentials. The Master Chronometer certification guarantees exceptional accuracy and magnetic resistance—important for maintaining precision timing during swim training.

The wave-patterned ceramic dial and ceramic bezel offer both aesthetic appeal and practical durability against water damage, while the helium escape valve (though unnecessary for swimming) showcases Omega’s commitment to over-engineering.

What distinguishes the Seamaster for swimming is its perfect balance of luxury and functionality—the rubber strap option provides security during water activities, while the ergonomic case design ensures comfort during extended wear in and out of the water.

Tudor Pelagos

• Price: $4,725
• Water Resistance: 500 meters
• Case Size: 42mm
• Movement: Automatic (COSC-certified MT5612)

The Tudor Pelagos represents the most technically advanced swimming watch in the Rolex/Tudor family. The full titanium construction provides exceptional lightness and corrosion resistance, while the 500-meter water resistance rating offers massive overkill for any swimming scenario.

What makes the Pelagos special for swimmers is its self-adjusting bracelet system that automatically compensates for wetsuit compression or wrist size changes due to temperature—a genuinely useful innovation. The matte finish and outstanding luminosity ensure excellent visibility in all conditions.

While expensive, the Pelagos represents Tudor’s no-compromise approach to creating the ultimate tool watch, with specifications that exceed most competitors at any price point. For serious swimmers and water sports enthusiasts with the budget, it’s difficult to find a more capable timepiece.

Doxa Sub 300T

• Price: $1,890
• Water Resistance: 1,200 meters
• Case Size: 42.5mm
• Movement: Automatic (ETA 2824-2/Sellita SW200-1)

With a heritage dating back to the earliest days of recreational diving, Doxa’s distinctive cushion case and bright dial options (particularly the famous “Professional” orange) offer a combination of serious capability and vintage charm. The patented bezel includes a no-decompression scale—unnecessary for swimming but a nod to Doxa’s deep-water heritage.

What sets the Sub 300T apart is its purpose-built nature—everything from the highly legible dial to the comfortable “beads of rice” bracelet was designed specifically for underwater use rather than adapted from land watches. The exceptional 1,200-meter water resistance provides absurd overkill for swimming.

For those who appreciate heritage and distinctive styling in a serious swimming watch, the Doxa offers character that more mainstream options can’t match, backed by specifications that exceed what anyone would need for aquatic activities.

Specialized Swim Training Watches

For dedicated lap swimmers and triathletes, specialized digital options offer swimming-specific features beyond what traditional watches provide.

Garmin Swim 2

• Price: $250
• Water Resistance: 50 meters (purpose-built for swimming)
• Case Size: 42mm
• Battery Life: Up to 7 days (72 hours in pool swim mode)

Purpose-designed for swimmers, the Garmin Swim 2 automatically detects stroke type, counts laps, and calculates SWOLF scores (a measure of swimming efficiency). The built-in optical heart rate monitor works underwater—a rare feature even among specialty swimming watches.

Unlike general-purpose smartwatches, the Swim 2 focuses entirely on swimming metrics, offering detailed analysis of pace, distance, stroke count, and stroke length. The dedicated design allows for better battery life and simpler operation during swim workouts.

For serious lap swimmers focused on improving performance, the specialized nature of the Swim 2 makes it superior to more generalized fitness watches, despite its modest water resistance rating (which is still more than adequate for pool swimming).

Apple Watch Ultra

• Price: $799
• Water Resistance: 100 meters
• Case Size: 49mm
• Battery Life: Up to 36 hours (normal use)

While many smartwatches offer swim tracking, the Apple Watch Ultra takes it to another level with its dedicated Action button for starting workouts with wet hands, true depth gauge, and customizable workout views specifically for swimming.

The Ultra’s exceptionally bright display (2000 nits) provides outstanding visibility in bright outdoor pool or beach conditions, while the longer battery life ensures it won’t die during extended water activities. The titanium construction offers better durability than aluminum models while remaining lightweight.

For those already in the Apple ecosystem who want comprehensive swim tracking along with smartwatch functionality, the Ultra provides the most capable option, though dedicated swimmers may prefer more specialized devices.

FORM Smart Swim Goggles

• Price: $199 (not a watch, but worth considering)
• Water Resistance: Designed for swimming
• Battery Life: 16 hours of swim time

While not technically a watch, the FORM Smart Swim Goggles deserve mention as they provide real-time metrics directly in your field of vision while swimming—including pace, distance, and stroke rate. The heads-up display allows swimmers to see information without interrupting their stroke.

For serious swimmers, pairing these goggles with a basic water-resistant watch (for time-keeping outside the pool) might provide a more effective solution than a dedicated swim watch. The immediate feedback during sets offers training advantages that wrist-based devices can’t match.

Straps and Bracelets for Swimming

The right watch strap can make a significant difference in comfort and security while swimming.

Best Options for Swimmers

Rubber/Silicone Straps

• Pros: Quick-drying, resistant to chlorine and saltwater, comfortable when wet
• Cons: Can feel sticky in high heat, may cause wrist perspiration
• Recommendations: Isofrane-style straps, Barton Elite Silicone, OEM manufacturer straps

NATO Straps

• Pros: Secure attachment with redundant spring bars, available in nylon or seatbelt material
• Cons: Retain water longer than rubber, can be abrasive when wet
• Recommendations: Premium seatbelt NATO straps, Maratac nylon straps (rinse after swimming)

Metal Bracelets

• Pros: Durable, won’t degrade from water exposure, adjustable fit
• Cons: Heavier than strap options, can pull hair when wet, may corrode if not rinsed
• Recommendations: Solid end-link bracelets with secure clasps and micro-adjustments

Materials to Avoid for Swimming

• Leather: Degrades quickly with water exposure, even “waterproof” varieties
• Canvas/Fabric: Retains water, may develop odors if not properly dried
• Cheap Rubber: Can crack and deteriorate from chlorine exposure
• Lightweight Metal: Folded/stamped bracelets may fail under water pressure

Maintaining Your Swimming Watch

Proper care extends the life of your water-resistant timepiece:

After-Swim Care Routine

1. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after exposure to pool chemicals or saltwater
2. Rotate the bezel during rinsing to remove salt or sand
3. Dry completely before storage, paying special attention to strap attachment points
4. Check the crown is fully secured after use
5. Store in dry conditions to prevent moisture buildup

Regular Maintenance

• Test water resistance annually if the watch is used regularly for swimming
• Replace gaskets during service (typically every 3-5 years)
• Inspect the crown and tube for damage or wear
• Clean strap attachment points to prevent buildup of debris

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Swimming Watch

The best swimming watch depends on your specific needs:

For casual swimmers who occasionally take a dip, watches like the Casio Duro or Citizen Promaster offer excellent water resistance without breaking the bank.

For regular pool swimmers, dedicated devices like the Garmin Swim 2 provide valuable training metrics, while traditional watches like the Seiko SKX offer timeless style with proper functionality.

For ocean enthusiasts and more adventurous water activities, higher water resistance ratings from watches like the Tudor Pelagos or Marathon GSAR provide peace of mind in challenging conditions.

Whichever option you choose, understanding water resistance limitations, properly maintaining your timepiece, and selecting appropriate straps will ensure your watch remains a reliable swimming companion for years to come.

Do you have a favorite watch for swimming? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!

SEE also

Rolex
Omega
Patek Philippe
Audemars Piguet
TAG Heuer
Seiko
Longines
Tissot
Casio
Citizen