Automatic watches and saunas

[Rufus]

Having relatively recently discovered the relaxing nature of a sauna and steam room, I began to wonder whether the temperature 'extremes' (not that extreme I realise) could do any harm to my watch? I wouldn't wear any of my older watches in as I wouldn't be wearing them in the pre-sauna shower and swim but found myself in there with my Milgauss. Is there any risk or should I just carry on as per?

[ellroy]

Don't.

While most watches are watertight to some extent they're not nearly as gas proof as a rule of thumb. Steam gets in watch then condenses.......

[aeropilot]

My Sub seems to have managed OK with sauna & steam room sessions several times a week for the past few years.........

[Variomatic]

Elroy's right that it's a risk. I see far more watches with water damage from sitting in bathrooms with a shower running than I do from actual immersion.

You'll probably be ok with a decently rated watch in good condition, but the risk is there nonetheless.

[ellroy]

Thanks V! Unlike you I learnt the hard way.

[robertrobertson]

Well since my last sub was stole in the changing rooms locker I all ways were my new one and it has been fine I think the whole steam damage thing is scare mungering but I might re consider

[Variomatic]

It's not scaremongering as such.

A good watch in good condition should be fine, but if there are any weaknesses in the seals then steam will find its way in a long time before liquid water does. The trouble is, steam can be entering for quite some time before you get enough water in there to give obvious condensation, but it can still be enough to start corrosion off.

Bottom line is, it's a risk but not a big one. Given how easy it is to avoid the risk, and having seen a LOT of steam damaged watches over the past 20 odd years, personally I don't subject my own watches to steam even though I know they're proof - the benefit of pressure testing on demand

[ADP68]

Oops! I've been wearing an omega seamaster for 17 years in the steam room and sauna 😞

[ADP68]

Oops! I've been wearing an omega seamaster for 17 years in the steam room and sauna 😞

[SVS]

To maintain standards of decency, I think you should wear more than just a watch when in the sauna - even if the watch is a Rolex.