WR 50M / 5 Bar Marking — What This Mark Means
A water resistance rating of 50 meters (5 bar/ATM), indicating the watch can handle everyday moisture like rain and hand washing. This rating is not suitable for swimming or submersion.
What This Usually Means
A 50M water resistance rating means the watch was tested to withstand 5 bar of static pressure in a laboratory. In practice, this provides protection against splashes, rain, and brief accidental water contact. Dynamic pressure from swimming strokes or water sports can exceed the static test rating.
Where to Find It
Printed or engraved on the case back, typically as "WATER RESIST 50M," "WR50," "5 BAR," "W.R. 5ATM," or "WATER RESISTANT 165FT."
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Common Variations
The same rating appears in multiple formats: 50M, 5 BAR, 5 ATM, 165 feet. Some brands use "50m" in lowercase. The placement and font vary by manufacturer but the meaning is identical.
Common Misconceptions
Despite saying "50 meters," this rating does not mean you can safely take the watch to 50 meters underwater. The rating is a static pressure test. Industry guidelines recommend against swimming with a 50M-rated watch. Gasket degradation over time further reduces effective resistance.
What to Do Next
Treat a 50M-rated watch as splash-resistant only. Avoid swimming, showering, or submerging it. If you need a watch for water activities, look for at least 100M (10 bar) for swimming or 200M for diving.
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Related Markings
A marking indicating the watch's tested water resistance depth, typically shown in meters, feet, bar, or ATM. This ratin
WR 100M / 10 Bar MarkingA water resistance rating of 100 meters (10 bar/ATM), generally considered suitable for swimming and recreational water
Bar / ATM Pressure RatingA water resistance rating expressed in bar or ATM (atmospheres) instead of meters. One bar/ATM approximately equals 10 m
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Frequently asked questions
Can I swim with a 50M water resistant watch?
It's generally not recommended. Despite the 50M rating, it's a static test that doesn't account for the dynamic pressure of swimming strokes.
What activities are safe with 50M water resistance?
Hand washing, rain exposure, and accidental splashes. Avoid intentional submersion, swimming, or showering.
Is 50M the same as 5 bar?
Yes. 5 bar of pressure is approximately equivalent to 50 meters of static water depth. Both represent the same water resistance level.
Should I have my 50M watch re-tested?
If you regularly expose it to moisture, annual testing is wise. Gaskets degrade over time and may no longer provide the rated protection.
Can I upgrade my watch to a higher water resistance?
Generally no. Water resistance is determined by the case design, crystal, crown, and gaskets working together as a system.
What's the minimum rating for swimming?
Most guidelines recommend at least 100M (10 bar) for pool swimming and 200M for open water or diving activities.