Different case form on same model from factory

[acce1999]

Be aware: Here comes a true WIS observation..

I've been under the impression that several of the 40 mm professional watches have shared the same middle case, coming from the same production line at the Rolex factory; for example the GMT 16700, GMT 16710, the Explorer II 16570, the Sub 14060 and 16610. Only difference in my mind was the cut out for the crown, and the engraved serial and model numbers. (I am only talking about the SS middle case here, not the case back).

A couple of years ago I learnt that the GMT 16700 is 0.2 mm thinner than the 16710, but I still do not know if this relates to the middle case, or the case back.

Lately I have been doing some other observations; for example I have two late serial Explorer II:s with SEL and non lug holes cases, and they have a slight difference in the shape of the lugs. I've gotten them BNIB with all plastics intact. We are talking very minor differencies here... but WIS people like me will recognise things like this...

The first Explorer has i slightly more square profile of the lugs (looking towards the serial number position) compared to the second. Both watches manufactured within a period of less than a year. The second Explorer has more rounded lugs, and the flush fit towards the SEL is tighter. I would actually say that it resembles the fit of the upgraded GMT 116710, where the traditional gaps between the end links and the case is smaller than earlier. (If you haven't noticed this, check out the DSSD where the situation is inverted.)

I've done the same observation on Submariners; 14060M and 16610, where the lugs of the 14060M is a bit more square (if that is the proper word to describe it) compared to the 16610.

All in all I would describe the 14060M as slightly less machined (still extremely minor differencies) than the 16610.

What is interesting is that I have two watches, of exactly the same model (one black, one white dialled), that differs slightly - and since I was under the impression that all cases was completely done by CNC machines there should be NO differencies.

But... I guess this is like all the dial variations, and perhaps it relates to batches on different production lines.

Being the WIS I am it is observable for me without loupe, and I'll try to find time to take pictures.

Just some weekend WIS observations...

Anyone else recognise what I'm talking about? (Perhaps I should ask: How many people have several of exactly the same Rolex model...)

Best,

A