What is “ATM” in a watch context
When you see “3 ATM”, “5 ATM” or “10 ATM” on a watch, it refers to how much water pressure the case can resist. “ATM” stands for atmospheres, a unit of pressure. One atmosphere equals the pressure at about 10 meters of water depth.
That means a 5 ATM watch has been tested to resist pressures equal to 50 meters of water. However, these are laboratory conditions — not real-life diving depths. In reality, movement, splashes, and temperature changes can all increase pressure on the watch, so the actual limits are lower than the numbers suggest.
What each water rating means in real life
To help you translate these numbers into everyday situations, here’s a quick guide:
- 3 ATM (30 meters): Handles daily moisture like hand-washing, light rain, or splashes. Not suitable for swimming or showers.
- 5 ATM (50 meters): Safe for short swims and exposure to water during daily activities, but avoid high-pressure jets or long immersion.
- 10 ATM (100 meters): Great for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports — though still not made for deep diving.
- 20 ATM (200 meters): Built for active water adventures and diving to recreational depths.
- 30 ATM and above: Designed for professional diving and demanding underwater conditions.
It’s also important to remember that water resistance isn’t permanent. Over time, seals and gaskets can wear out, especially if the watch is exposed to soaps, heat, or salt water. Regular maintenance ensures your watch remains as protected as the day you bought it.
A few design details can make a big difference — such as screw-down crowns, sealed case backs, and stainless-steel construction — all of which enhance how well a watch resists water in daily life.
If your lifestyle takes you beyond the everyday — whether it’s a morning run, a swim, or a weekend by the coast — your watch should be able to follow. At Nordgreen, several of our timepieces are designed to match that balance of function and form, offering dependable water resistance without compromising on design.
Both the Pioneer and Succession collections feature 10 ATM water resistance, meaning they’re ready for swimming, light snorkeling, or simply those days when life gets a little wetter than planned.
The Pioneer chronograph embodies modern Scandinavian engineering, where precision and endurance meet understated style. Meanwhile, the Succession collection brings a sleeker, more minimalist approach — a versatile piece that transitions effortlessly from workday to adventure.
Each watch is a reflection of Nordgreen’s belief that practicality should always feel elegant — because real luxury is when you don’t have to think twice before jumping into life.
