Rolex Innovations

[Artisan Fan]

Since we have some Rolex fans on the board I thought it might be interesting to look at recent innovations. I think there is a myth that Rolex is not very innovative as some have suggested but there have been some interesting developments in the past few years.

** 4130 movement. New for the the Daytona chronograph, it is considered among the most accurate and service friendly movements for a chrono.

** Ceramic bezel. Some of the new Submariners sport this new type of bezel using a very durable ceramic which some thought could not be manufactured.

** New lubricants for extending service. Rolex has created a new class of lubricants that extend servicing to the 5 year mark or more.

** New non-magnetic hairpspring. More robust, more accurate hairspring in the movement.

** New Prince dress watch. Rectangular dress watch with first exhibition back for Rolex and quality finishing close to boutique exhibitions.

So innovation is occurring even though the exterior design is one of slow evolution (which probably helps with resale in any event).

 

[The Devil's Hands]

Rolex is for loser

 

[skalogre]

Originally Posted by Artisan Fan

...
** New lubricants for extending service. Rolex has created a new class of lubricants that extend servicing to the 5 year mark or more.
...

Could you expand on that one? I am curious how they came up with this idea, especially considering that I have a number of plebeian mechanical watches that are incredibly accurate that are more than 15 years old which have never been serviced (and it is not atypical, actually the opposite)?
Do you mean Rolex service intervals specifically? I understand that the Big Names are more demanding of upkeep and maintenance and all that...

 

[sygyzy]

skalogre - Of course he means for Rolex's specifically. The fact that you have (or think you have) watches that have never been serviced that are incredibly accurate, does not affect the Rolex innovations.

 

[Artisan Fan]

Could you expand on that one?

I have been told by an expert that new chemistry allows the lubricants to not break down as fast. This allows for longer times between service as lubricant quality is a major factor. I do mean Rolex...I think they have a patent on this possibly.

I like Glashutte as well DH. Troublemaker.

 

[Tomasso]

Originally Posted by Artisan Fan

I think they have a patent on this possibly.

 

[zjpj83]

I have a rose gold day-date.

I LOVE the 18K submariner with black dial and face. When I was a child, I saw a gentleman with one in Antigua. I absolutely fell in love with it - the first watch I ever loved. One of these days, I have to get one.

 

[zjpj83]

Originally Posted by The Devil's Hands

Rolex is for loser

Let's see a shot of it on your wrist

 

[Reuters]

Is it essential to service your watch?

I have a 20 year old Rolex Date Just, never been serviced, but works good.

 

[Toiletduck]

Originally Posted by The Devil's Hands

Rolex is for loser

beautiful watch!

 

[Artisan Fan]

Is it essential to service your watch?

Very much so or the parts can grind down. Rolex recommends every 5 years but you can get by with 7 years.

 

[Reuters]

Originally Posted by Artisan Fan

Very much so or the parts can grind down. Rolex recommends every 5 years but you can get by with 7 years.

Thanks. Mine is way overdue for servicing.

 

[Artisan Fan]

Reuters,

When you do a Rolex service, they really bring it back to new condition. It's pretty amazing actually. Well worth the $450 or so (in the US).

 

[Reuters]

Originally Posted by Artisan Fan

Reuters,

When you do a Rolex service, they really bring it back to new condition. It's pretty amazing actually. Well worth the $450 or so (in the US).

Thanks pal. I do know that they provide quality service for Rolex.

I have an issue. Wanted to change my acrylic to sapphire crystal but was told by the people at Rolex that its not possible. However, when I went to normal watch shops, they are able to do so. Any comments?

 

[Artisan Fan]

Interesting..I was in the same boat. Here is my decision...I'm keeping the acrylic.

1. Preserves vintage value by keeping watch authentic to year.
2. Rolex ADs can clean the acrylic easily with a buffing machine. My watch looked practically new after this.

I would honestly pass on the sapphire. If you do it, then use a good AD or you risk resale value.