Rolex 3135/31XX caliber setting wheels: how big an Achilles Heel?

[Adam K.]

I'm interested to learn more about the setting wheels in the 3135/31XX family of Rolex movements, which are one of the few areas that receive criticism when modern Rolex calibers are discussed. When weaknesses in these generally very tough movements are talked about it usually comes down to either A) the rotor axle or B) the 2 small diameter setting wheels (compared to the 15XX and 30XX calibers) which are prone to damage over time...and can wreck havoc on the mainplate itself if things get bad enough, apparently.

Its been said that regular servicing within recommended schedules is the big variable as to how much wear these setting wheels in the 31XX movement experiences. But, are there any OTHER factors? That is, can certain types of use or operator influence affect how much damage these setting wheels experience over the course of a 5-10 year wearing interval?


Would love to learn more from the watchmaker technicians who have experience with servicing these movements. Aside from overhauls within a recommended 4-6 year interval (approx.) are there any other helpful tips to ensure that this area of the movement is kept in reasonably good shape over the long haul, assuming one wears his/her watch more or less on a day-to-day basis?


Thanks!

[Rikki]

The wheels in question are the setting wheel and intermediate setting wheel that are mounted on posts cut out of the main plate. These wheels are small and under considerable tension when in use, so long as they're properly lubed during service they pose no more a problem than any other gear. What happens generally is that the lube dries out or gums up causing more stress than they can handle they then come apart because they are connected at times to the slide pinion minute wheel and calendar corrector wheel all those gears may get shredded as well. The main problem lies in that if a watch goes unserviced for too long that the posts of the main plate that these gears ride on start to get grooved to the point where they don't mesh then destruction ensues. Now the whole mainplate has to be replaced a rather large expense. So regular servicing is a must thanx for listening, Rikki

[Adam K.]

Thanks so much, Rik!

Sounds like regular servicing is the all-important ticket to preventing the massive damage you describe. In general, for the 3135 family of calibers, is a service interval within 5-7 years (tops) generally suffice to avoid these worst case scenarios?

[Rikki]

I've always been a 5 year man but you can only lead a horse to water you can't make them drink it. Rikki