Witschi WAIO

WAIO (Witschi All In One) is a compact, all-in-one testing device for watches. Simply place the watch inside and close the cover (bell), and it automatically performs three checks: timekeeping accuracy, water resistance (leak-tightness), and exposure to strong magnetic fields that can affect performance. Results are displayed on the built-in touchscreen within minutes.

A full test covering all three checks typically takes about 10 minutes, though the device displays an estimated time before starting. Individual tests can be run separately if you only need a quick water-resistance check or a timing reading. The WAIO automatically adjusts its measuring time based on the watch, so simpler tests finish faster.

Day-to-day operation does not require watchmaking expertise. The WAIO guides the user through each step via its touchscreen - place the watch on the support, align the crown toward the back of the device, press next, and the machine does the rest. The main requirement is that the user understands the water-resistance rating printed on the watch (usually expressed in meters or bar), which is used to select the correct test pressure. No technical background is required beyond this.

The WAIO provides three objective data points in one session. Timing accuracy shows how many seconds per day the watch is running fast or slow - a well-serviced mechanical watch should be within roughly plus or minus 10–15 seconds per day, and significant deviation suggests it needs service. Water resistance confirms whether the case seals are intact; a failing seal is a known service cost you can factor into your offer. Magnetism reveals whether the movement has been affected by magnetic fields, which can cause erratic timekeeping and may require demagnetization. Together, these three readings provide a quick, documented snapshot of the condition before negotiating.

Yes. Results are stored on the device and can also be uploaded to Witschi's cloud platform (Wicotrace 360°). When connected, a QR code can be displayed on screen and scanned with a smartphone, allowing the customer to view the test results directly on their own device - a useful trust-building tool at the point of sale.

The WAIO handles both mechanical watches and standard quartz (battery-powered) watches with analog hands. Watch case diameter must be between 12 and 60 mm (up to 65 mm including the crown), case thickness between 4 and 21 mm, and total width, including the bracelet, must not exceed 111 mm. The maximum weight with a bracelet is 260 grams. Smartwatches and digital-only displays are not supported.

The timing result is reported in seconds per day. A reading of +5 means the watch gains 5 seconds every 24 hours; minus 8 means it loses 8 seconds. For a mechanical watch, a result between roughly minus 10 and plus 15 seconds per day is generally considered acceptable. Results well outside that range typically indicate the watch needs servicing or adjustment. The WAIO also measures the watch in multiple positions (face-up, face-down, crown left, crown right), providing a more complete picture of how the watch will perform on the wrist.

Yes. For watches with no stated water resistance, the WAIO should be set to test at a maximum of 2 bar of pressure, which corresponds to a depth rating of about 20 meters. This is the conservative default recommended by Witschi for unknown cases and helps protect against over-pressurizing a watch that may not have been designed for water resistance. You can still get a valid pass/fail result at this lower pressure.

No compressor is required. This is a fully standalone unit and does not require a separate compressor.

Daily maintenance is minimal - wipe the rubber seal around the test chamber with a dry microfiber cloth at the end of each day, and ensure the lid is closed before switching off. Witschi recommends annual recalibration by its service team to ensure measurement accuracy. A more thorough inspection is recommended after 50,000 test cycles or every 8 years. The device’s built-in counter tracks total test cycles, so you always know its usage status.

Yes. The WAIO uses air pressure, not water, so the watch never gets wet during testing. The device applies controlled air pressure to a sealed chamber and measures how the watch case responds: a leak-tight case holds its shape under pressure, while a compromised seal allows the case to flex. This method is safe for standard watches and is the standard used in the professional watchmaking industry.