Comments:
"Not water resistant" experiences?
Hello!
I am curious about owner or wearer experience with minute repeaters that are described as humidity and dust resistant only or specifically "not water resistant." These include modern Patek, AP, and VC models but no doubt others as well. I realize these tend to be limited issue halo pieces and that the lack of a membrane improves the volume and tone (or can at least), but my question is about any anxiety experienced when wearing these pieces. Are you particularly worried, for example, if caught in the rain or if you were to splash it when washing hands, etc?
Considering how the normal water resistance ratings run according to actual recommended uses, I think I would be very nervous to wear something "not water resistant." Or perhaps I'm just trying to save myself from the desire? Lol!
All opinions welcome!
Thank you,
Brandon
No minute repeaters in this case...
...but wearing my Dad's old 1946 Omega 30mm chronometer, with literally NO water resistance - not a gasket in the whole watch, in cool wet weather can develop misting on the inside of the crystal. Combination of a warm wrist and cool exterior temps. No question of immersing the watch or even washing hands with it on, in this climatic condition humidity and condensation develops within the watch.
Zip lock bags ...
... in the back pocket for unexpected downpours. No washing up after dinner parties - what a great excuse!
But high humidity would still make me a little nervous.
Andrew
Ps. I should emphasize that these are theoretical concerns, but still the ones that keep me awake at night. ;-)
Thanks Andrew!
Thanks for the insight and humor! For me, as well, this is an absolutely theoretical debate right now...not in the market for a 5078 yet! However, I feel compelled to evaluate it as if I were...the movement is so nice but could I actually wear it? Would I be mindful of its needs enough to wear it without it wearing me, so-to-speak? Especially because there are so many watches that would 'wear' more practically in my case.
Not knocking any of these watches; on the contrary, they are so nice that it actually makes me a bit nervous...to the point it might reduce enjoyment.
Thanks for the feedback!
Cheers,
Brandon
Water resistence of minute repeaters and daily wear
Hi, Brandon,
This is the world of the internet, big and wide and way beyond the scope and scale any human being who has ever existed has ever imagined.
So writers who have any sense of responsibility has to carefully consider what they write, and hopefully readers will keep comments meant in their original context and scope.
Historically, striking watches have had no gaskets, ostensibly because gaskets will muffle the volume and often dulls the musicality.
I've worn repeaters and sonneries all over the world for decades (not meaning any single piece 24/7 for decades) and I've never had any issues.
But then I'm careful when washing hands not to soak the watch and have been known to protect my wrist while my head gets drenched in sudden downpours.
I was once asked by a friend, who was scheduled to meet with The Great Leader in the Libyan desert, "Do you think I should wear my Patek repeater for that meeting?"
I advised against it.
Use your own best judgement, but for the most part, under normal wearing conditions and if you are reasonably careful, and the case is in good condition, it shouldn't be a problem.
Cheers,
TM
Did you advise (against) because of the climate or because of the leader? [nt]
No message body
Cogent. But to keep the watch safe from the leader's ...
... potentially greedy hands would also have been a good reason, IMHO. 
Marcus
Thank you!
Thank you for your thoughtful response! I understand your point about the danger of generalizations becoming rules on the internet, and I appreciate that you weighed in on the subject.
Thank you again for your time and for sharing your experiences!
Cheers,
Brandon