Water Resistance Testing: NFC Durability in Watch Casings
Feb 16, 2026
4 min read
When watch servicing brands evaluate embedding NFC chips into watch casings—particularly for service tracking, authentication, or digital certificates—the first question is always the same: What happens when the watch gets wet?
It's a valid concern. Watches encounter water constantly in daily use: hand washing, sweat during exercise, accidental splashes, and swimming. Electronics and water have a notorious relationship. A compromised chip could mean failed authentication or lost service history.
The question isn't theoretical; it's operational. Can NFC chips with ICODE SLIX2 architecture withstand the moisture exposure watches experience in real-world daily use? We conducted direct submersion testing to answer this definitive question.
Daily Water Exposure: The Reality
Water Resistance Testing: Methodology
To validate NFC durability, we conducted direct water submersion testing using custom NFC chips with ICODE SLIX2 architecture (ISO 15693). The goal was to simulate "worst-case" scenarios.
Testing Results: Full Functionality
Both submersion tests yielded identical outcomes. The naked chips demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining 100% read functionality, data integrity, and response speeds immediately after removal from water.
Validation Complete
NFC Integration Proven Durable for Watch Servicing
Ready to Modernize Your Service Workflow?
The hardware is validated. The software is ready. Start implementing digital IDs for your timepieces today.