Sauna, Golf, Tennis, Motorbike: Where You Can and Can't Wear an Automatic Watch

An automatic watch is tougher than most people think, but there are a few places it really should come off. Here is a practical guide, situation by situation.

Swimming and the sea: yes, with conditions

With at least 100m water resistance and the crown pushed in or screwed down, swimming is fine. Rinse it in fresh water afterwards. For diving, choose a dive watch rated to 200m. Never operate the crown underwater.

Shower: better not

Hot water and steam make gaskets expand and contract, and soap and shampoo wear them down. A rinse is fine; a daily hot shower is not worth the risk.

Sauna and hot tub: take it off

High heat is the real enemy. It thins the oils, stresses the gaskets and can let moisture in when the watch cools down. Water resistance ratings are tested at room temperature, not at 90°C.

Golf: you can, but many golfers don't

Modern movements have shock protection and a round of golf won't harm a decent automatic. But the impact at the top of the swing, repeated hundreds of times, is not ideal for any mechanical watch, and a watch can get in the way of your grip. Many golfers move it to the other wrist or take it off.

Tennis, padel and squash: take it off

Constant sharp impacts on the racket wrist, plus the risk of hitting the watch against the racket, make these the worst sports for a mechanical watch. Wear it on the other wrist or not at all.

Gym: depends

Running and cardio: fine. Heavy free weights: take it off, or wear a smaller watch on a strap. Bars and dumbbells scratch cases and crystals quickly.

Motorbike: generally fine

Engine vibration on a modern bike is not a problem for a quality automatic, and the case will usually be under a glove or sleeve. Very heavy off-road vibration over many hours is harsher, so consider a tougher, simpler watch for that.

Bed: up to you

Sleeping in it won't harm it, and it keeps it wound. But a bracelet can be uncomfortable, and if you sleep with your phone on a magnetic stand or near a speaker, take it off to avoid magnetism.

Roller coasters and extreme rides: take it off

Not for the movement's sake, but because bracelets can snag and watches do go flying.

One rule for everything

Heat, sharp repeated impacts and magnets are what harm an automatic watch. Avoid those three and it will go almost anywhere with you. More care tips: how often to service an automatic watch.