Bar Rating
A watch specification field known as Bar Rating, used to describe or compare a measurable or identifying characteristic of a watch.
Also known as: BAR, Pressure rating, Bar water resistance
Definition
Bar is a metric unit of pressure commonly used to state watch water resistance. One bar equals 100,000 pascals and is close to one standard atmosphere. In watch-industry shorthand, each additional bar of overpressure is commonly associated with roughly 10 metres of water depth, so 5 bar corresponds to a 50 m rating and 10 bar to 100 m. The marking expresses tested pressure resistance, not automatic qualification as a diver’s watch.
Why it matters
Bar is often the clearest way to understand the underlying pressure test, but consumers should still follow manufacturer activity guidance and maintain seals.