3135 vs 3185 vs 3186

[JJ Irani]

Originally Posted by tpearman

That movement seems cutting edge and impressive...if only the watch weren't so butt ugly! Every time I see it, I can't really believe Rolex produced it.

Hey Tim,

I'm surprised you find that BLACK dial ugly....I think it's absolutely stunning. Now if you look at the green one and say "ugh", I'd agree, but not with the black one.

Here's the same model with the GREEN dial...

[maverick]

This was posted on another forum. It explains how Rolex is using the new ceramic type bearing in this new movement. Along with the new 24 hour features I feel it greatly improves the whole movement. =) maverick

"Rolex incorporates a rotor axial pivot set in a lubricated jewel system. This has been their method for over 40 years. It is light weight and has only three wear points.

This system my sound simple but in fact that is why Rolex has resisted on using the ball bearing and bearing race concept. For one, less moving parts. Also Rolex was not sold on the materiel that the ball bearings were made out of. So till now Rolex uses the axial and jewel concept. Just look at all the vintage Rolex automatic movements with this system. With proper lubrication, they can last forever.

Now the new movements like the GMT 3186 are using a new ceramic ball bearing and race system, with a new synthetic lubrication. This system is entirely sealed lubrication they unofficially clamed that it will last for over 50 years of service. Also they incorporated a new shock resisting system in case the watch had a hard fall.

Even this Rolex ball bearing system is not like the more cheaper ubiquitous ETA or Valjoux rotor assembly. The placement of the new Rolex bearing and race rotor assembly has been patented and is at a different location. Rolex claims that it is a unique only to their movements

When my clients bring in their Rolex auto moments with a rattling rotor sound, 99%of the time the watch was dropped and the rotor axial pops out of the rotor set, or cracks the jewel. Other then that not to much wear damage."

[JJ Irani]

Thanks, Dennis....real interesting stuff.

[maverick]

Originally Posted by JJ Irani

Thanks, Dennis....real interesting stuff.

I know it is a little technical but between this movement and the 4130 I think Rolex is doing a good job of gradually upgrading their movements with very good improvements and staying ahead of the competition. Supposedly they are better finished movements also which will make many very happy. =) maverick

[JJ Irani]

Originally Posted by maverick

I know it is a little technical but between this movement and the 4130 I think Rolex is doing a good job of gradually upgrading their movements with very good improvements and staying ahead of the competition. Supposedly they are better finished movements also which will make many very happy. =) maverick

Absolutely, Dennis....in any event, I don't think anybody had anything ever to moan about Rolex's superb movements. They are always so reliable and robust.