JBZ wrote: ↑Fri Jun 15, 2018 5:31 pm
I doubt any micros have actually tested their extreme depth watches. To test the DSSD, Rolex had to build its own machine with help from Comex, and I’m sure that was a significant cash outlay.
Not that micros can’t build watches that should theoretically be resistant to extreme depths. I just doubt any of them are actually testing it.
The only time the WR figures printed on the dial have any meaning is if the company clearly claims to be ISO6425 compliant, in which case it is the spec (plus 25% margin) against which EVERY watch has tested before going in the market. Among other tests.
Failing that, it's only marketing.
That doesn't necessarily mean that the watch is not dive worthy. A well designed and quality built watch, with the seals in good condition will likely pass a 10 bar test without problems.
With the robust build of the typical dive watches of today, at 10 or 20 bars there is no significant deformation of the case elements. At those pressures you're just testing the integrity of the seals. So, if it is good at 10 bar, it's likely just as good at 20 or even 30 bars. And I tend to keep my dives shallower than that, anyway...
At 300m underwater what you'll find is a perfectly fine watch on the wrist of a dead diver.