- Dress watches (Charlie Paris) can withstand splashes and water's edge conditions, but not diving.
- At the beach, it's better to wear a steel or silicone watchband rather than a leather one, since leather is susceptible to salt damage.
- 5 ATM = Resistant to splashes and brief immersion, but not suitable for swimming.
- Our Charlie Paris seaside collection is available at Club de la Montre.
A watch and the sea—it’s a long-standing love story—but one that requires a few precautions. Between the salt, the sand, the sun, and the urge to take a dip, not all timepieces are created equal when you’re by the water. Here’s how to choose, wear, and care for your watch this summer without putting it at risk.
Watches and Water: What You Really Need to Know
Let’s be honest: Charlie Paris watches are beautiful dress watches, designed for everyday wear and special occasions—not diving watches. Most are water-resistant enough for everyday use: they can handle rain, hand washing, and splashes of seawater. But it’s best to avoid prolonged swimming, diving, and hot showers.
The good news? Whether you're by the pool, on a lounge chair, or on the deck of a boat, a beautiful watch is right at home. The secret isn't to get it wet, but to choose the right one.
At the beach: the right bracelet is key
A watch’s worst enemy at the beach isn’t water—it’s salt on a leather strap. Leather doesn’t mix well with seawater, sweat, or sand. For a summer by the sea, opt for a steel Milanese mesh bracelet (which can be wiped clean with a damp cloth) or a silicone strap. Many Charlie Paris models feature interchangeable straps: save the leather for the city, and switch to steel for the coast.
By Boat and on the Road
On the water, you want a watch that’s easy to read in bright sunlight and keeps time reliably. A GMT watch, which displays a second time zone, is the ideal companion for setting out to sea and summer trips. Quartz, which is shock-resistant and always keeps accurate time, remains the most reliable choice for active vacations.
Our Charlie Paris Seaside Collection
Six watches that love the sea air—easy-to-read dials, a summery look, and a spirit of adventure. Wear them in the sun, but take them off before taking the plunge.
Caring for Your Watch After a Day at the Beach
When you return from the beach, follow these three simple steps: wipe the case and strap with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove salt and sand; dry thoroughly; and store the watch away from direct sunlight. If a leather strap has become damp, let it air dry—never on a radiator or in direct sunlight. These few seconds will extend the life of your timepiece by several years.
FAQ – Wearing a Watch at the Beach
Can you go swimming while wearing a Charlie Paris watch?
Charlie Paris watches are water-resistant for everyday use (splashes, rain, hand washing), but they are dress watches, not diving watches. It’s best to take them off before swimming or showering. They’re perfectly at home by the pool or on the sand.
Which watch should you choose for the beach and boating?
Opt for a steel (Milanese mesh) or silicone strap rather than leather, which is susceptible to damage from salt and water. A dial that’s easy to read in direct sunlight and a sturdy quartz movement are ideal. The Concordia GMT is perfect for travel and at sea.
What does a 5 ATM water resistance rating mean?
5 ATM (50 meters) means that the watch is resistant to splashes and brief immersion, but not to prolonged swimming or diving. This is the typical water resistance rating for a contemporary dress watch.
How do you care for your watch after a day at the beach?
Wipe the case and strap with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove salt and sand, dry thoroughly, and avoid leaving the watch in direct sunlight for hours. A wet leather strap should be air-dried, never in direct sunlight.
