rolex 3135 movement specs | Rolex 3135 movement diagram

The Rolex 3135 movement is a legendary automatic movement that powered a vast range of Rolex watches for over three decades, solidifying its reputation as a robust, reliable, and highly accurate workhorse. Introduced in 1988 and eventually superseded by the newer generation 3235 caliber, the 3135 remains a significant and highly sought-after movement, appreciated by watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its presence in iconic models like the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, Datejust, and Yacht-Master speaks volumes about its quality and enduring appeal. This article will delve into the specific details and specifications of the Rolex 3135 movement, covering its technical aspects, applications, and comparisons with other movements, as well as addressing frequently asked questions.

A Legacy of Excellence: The Rolex 3135

The Rolex 3135 wasn't just a movement; it was a statement of Rolex's commitment to precision engineering and unwavering quality. It represented a significant evolution in Rolex's in-house movement technology and became a cornerstone of their watchmaking philosophy. Its longevity in production underscores its inherent design excellence and the confidence Rolex placed in its capabilities. Even with the introduction of more technologically advanced movements, the 3135 continues to be highly regarded, and watches powered by it maintain strong value on the pre-owned market.

Rolex 3135 Movement Specs: The Nitty-Gritty

Understanding the specific technical details of the 3135 movement is crucial to appreciating its design and functionality. Here's a breakdown of the key specifications:

* Caliber Number: 3135

* Movement Type: Automatic, self-winding

* Diameter: 28.50 mm (12.5 lignes)

* Thickness: 6.00 mm

* Jewels: 31 jewels

* Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)

* Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours

* Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds, instantaneous date with rapid setting

* Balance Wheel: Glucydur, adjustable for precision timing

* Balance Spring: Nivarox, free-sprung

* Shock Protection: Kif Ultraflex

* Winding System: Perpetual rotor, bidirectional self-winding

* Hacking Seconds: Yes (seconds hand stops when the crown is pulled out)

* Chronometer Certification: COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres)

Detailed Examination of Key Components and Features:

* Automatic Winding System: The 3135 utilizes Rolex's renowned Perpetual rotor, a half-moon shaped weight that rotates freely with the motion of the wearer's wrist. This rotational energy is then transferred to the mainspring, winding the watch automatically. The bidirectional winding mechanism ensures that the movement is efficiently wound regardless of the rotor's direction of rotation.

* Frequency and Accuracy: The 28,800 vph frequency (4 Hz) is a key factor in the 3135's accuracy. This higher frequency allows for smaller increments of time measurement, leading to greater precision. The movement's COSC certification guarantees that it meets stringent accuracy standards, typically within -4/+6 seconds per day.

* Balance Wheel and Balance Spring: The Glucydur balance wheel is a non-magnetic, temperature-resistant alloy, contributing to the movement's stability and accuracy. The Nivarox balance spring is also known for its excellent elasticity and resistance to magnetic fields. The free-sprung balance allows for precise adjustment of the movement's timing without relying on a traditional index regulator.rolex 3135 movement specs

* Instantaneous Date with Rapid Setting: The instantaneous date function provides a clean and immediate date change at midnight. The rapid setting mechanism allows the wearer to quickly and easily adjust the date using the crown.

* Hacking Seconds: The hacking seconds feature is a practical addition that allows the wearer to precisely synchronize the watch with a reference time. When the crown is pulled out to the time-setting position, the seconds hand stops, enabling accurate time setting.

* Shock Protection: The Kif Ultraflex shock protection system safeguards the delicate balance staff from damage in the event of impacts or shocks.

Rolex Watches Powered by the 3135 Movement:

The versatility and reliability of the 3135 movement allowed it to be used in a wide range of Rolex models. Here are some of the most notable examples:

* Submariner: The quintessential dive watch, the Submariner, relied on the 3135 for many years, establishing its reputation for robustness and precision in demanding underwater environments.

* Sea-Dweller: Designed for even greater depths than the Submariner, the Sea-Dweller also benefited from the 3135's ruggedness and accuracy.

* Deepsea Sea-Dweller (DSSD): Early models of the Deepsea also utilized the 3135 before the introduction of the 3235.

* Datejust: The classic Datejust, a symbol of timeless elegance, incorporated the 3135 to provide accurate timekeeping and date functionality.