Rolex 3135 and predecessors

[Sartana]

So this link shows someones review on the mov't I think it is picture 21 where he describes a 'common issue with infrequently serviced or neglected watches'

Nice pictures but i have never heard of this if its true are there any daydate issues i need to be aware of ?




http://www.chronometrie.com/rolex3135/rolex3135.html

[Sartana]

Still can't figure out how to post more than one picture :

[Sartana]

Here's the damaged example:

[Sartana]

Anyone?

[Vanessa CW21]

Yes, it is a weaker area of this caliber that you only need to worry about if you don't take care of your watch.

[Sartana]

Thank you very much..
Are there any other 'achiles heals' so to speak with other models? Say the 3055 in my day date?

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Sartana

Thank you very much..
Are there any other 'achiles heals' so to speak with other models? Say the 3055 in my day date?

Well IMHO the Achilles heal in the all the 3 series movements is the rotor shaft although stronger on the 3035 and 3055.Its mainly because Rolex still don't not use ball rotor bearings rotors for most of there watches.Instead there use a plain sleeve bearing,which is very efficient in winding and quite quiet compared to some movements but still can be heard as it swings freely. But it has its weak points, and proper lubrication is critical so important to service every 5-7 years. When the lubricant evaporates or migrates, the metal axle experiences wear against the rotor shaft jewel bearing.Replacing the axle if worn will solve the problem if you have one,now these are changed quite routinely as part of normal routine service.Most Rolex watches have rotor axles with different size pivots at the ends. The one nearest the rotor is usually fairly large, but the one nearest the movement is relatively small,IMHO this is a Rolex movements weakest point.Today Rolex lubricates this with special grease,now this grease tends to dry-out especially in warmer climates and when it does, the rotor pivots are left without any lubrication.When the pivots become worn,or from lack of grease the bearing is able to move excessively from the normal plane of motion that makes the very slight rattle noise,and sometimes rubs on the case back and you will hear this all the time.But in general the sleeve type Rolex rotors are quite problem free and some go on for many many years without trouble but again many dont to proper routine service is a must then all Rolex movement will be problem free..

[Sartana]

Ahh such a wealth of knowledge y'all are so considerate in sharing ...
So the axle you are referring too is the winding rotor?

[Alcan]

Originally Posted by Sartana

So the axle you are referring too is the winding rotor?

Yep. The upper groove isn't supposed to be there. Any guesses where the worn off metal ended up?

[Sartana]

Ahhh that is just as bad as my op pics ... So does rolex use the ball bearing on any movements for the winder?

[whysleep]

Does every type of watch (brands) have some sort of weakness or is it only 3135??

[DateJustEnough]

Like mentioned above all movements have their strengths and weaknesses as does the 3135 as good as it is......

[D111s]

Originally Posted by Sartana

Ahhh that is just as bad as my op pics ... So does rolex use the ball bearing on any movements for the winder?

The Daytona has ball bearing and the new 32xx movement also has them.

[kunlun]

How should we understand Rolex's new 10 year recommended service interval given that they still use the 3135?

Is the 3136 a little different in this regard?

Thanks!

[taxico]

Originally Posted by kunlun

How should we understand Rolex's new 10 year recommended service interval given that they still use the 3135?

Is the 3136 a little different in this regard?

Thanks!

i think 10 years would work for most people, not all. there are some who are extremely extremely hard on their watches, resulting in quicker wear.

in any case, the axle is easily replaced during service...

the 3136 is the same in that regard.

(IMO) for most people would know when something is "off" - that's when the watch should go in for at least a check-up.

a competent watchmaker and his tools/machines will be able to tell what's wrong with it.

[Etschell]

Does this affect the 3130 as well?