I think many are confusing water resistant with waterproof. They are very different things.
I think he wants a watch he can swim with.
Most Timex and Casio electronic watches will do the job, especially in the 50$+ range. For ~100$ you can get a waterproof Timex or Casio that are no electronic, even real Chronographs.
Now, if you want something classy and maybe more of a brand name, you'll have to spend a lot more than that.
Certain Seiko, Citizen will do the job in the 250+ range.
If you want swiss, I think some Swatch models are waterproof and if not you should go with a lower end Tissot or Swiss Army.
But all the time mention that you want to swim with it not just wash your hands or take a shower (for some, even a shower can create problems)