The mechanical movement, Powered by human motion, Is often called the heart of a watch. When the wearer moves, It moves together, And when it stops, It ceases to function, Much like an alter ego.
The mechanical watches we wear are built around this movement. A case is crafted to fit the movement, And a dial and indexes are designed to match its functions, Gradually completing the watch. The finished watch and its movement are like partners. Today, I would like to introduce three representative movements that have supported the growth of Rolex.

A Faithful Partner for 30 Years
Cal. 3135

Cal. 3135 ⓒ millenarywatches

Cal. 3135 is the movement that Rolex produced for the longest period. It was first used in the Submariner Date Ref. 16610 released in 1989, And continued for an impressive 30 years until the discontinuation of its next generation, Ref. 116610.

The reason this movement could last so long lies in its simple structure. With optimized use of space and no unnecessary parts, Durability and consistent performance are ensured. Fewer components make repairs easier, And the long production period allowed many technicians to become familiar with Cal. 3135, Enabling its long-term success.

ⓒ Xupes Journal

Additionally, Like the Submariner Date model, Cal. 3135 features a cyclops lens and was used in various 40mm models. It played a faithful partner role in a wide range of models, From the Sea-Dweller Ref. 16600, Ref. 116600, Deepsea Ref. 116660, To Datejust 34 Ref. 115200, Spanning both classic and professional watches. In a way, It is the hidden hero responsible for two-fifths of Submariner history, Greatly contributing to the Submariner's current influence. Now, The next-generation movement Cal. 3235 has taken the baton and is continuing the legacy.

Submariner Date 16610LN

40mm, Black, Oyster

Submariner Date 16610LV

40mm, Black, Oyster

The Representative Movement for Ladies' Watches
Cal. 2135

ⓒ roshjewellers / Ref. 69173

If the Submariner Date has Cal. 3135, Ladies' watches feature Cal. 2135. Released in 1983, The small and robust Cal. 2135 was mainly used in women's watches. The most representative model housing this movement is the Lady-Datejust.

Despite its thin 5.83mm profile, Cal. 2135 offers a 42-hour power reserve and includes all the essential features required for a Rolex movement, Such as an overcoil and shock absorber. Cal. 2135 was updated twice, First to Cal. 2235 and then to Cal. 2236. Although it was succeeded by the next-generation Cal. 2235 in 1999, Enthusiasts still regard Cal. 2135 as more precise and robust than its successors.

ⓒ Time2timepiece

In Korea, It may be unfamiliar, But it is installed in Lady-Datejust references with five-digit numbers starting with 68 and 69. As it has been discontinued for over 20 years, It is mainly found in vintage Rolex ladies' watches. However, As a mechanical movement that can be used almost permanently, It will still perform its role well today if properly maintained.

Innovative Chronograph Movement
Cal. 4130

ⓒ Rolex

Cal. 4130 is the legendary movement that has been produced without change for over 20 years, From the Daytona Ref. 116520 to the present. It is also the oldest movement among current Rolex movements.

Previously, The Zenith movement was used in the 16520, Earning the nickname "Zenithtona." With the introduction of the fully in-house Cal. 4130, Rolex ushered in a remarkable revival. More details about this story were previously shared in the Steel Daytona Ref. 116520 article.

ⓒ watchesbysjx

Cal. 4130 is considered successful because it was conservative. Upon its release in 2000, The reduced number of parts and the newly introduced vertical clutch were highly praised, And Rolex's focus on technical fundamentals received acclaim. While efficiently implementing the Daytona's complex chronograph functions, The power reserve was dramatically extended from 50 to 72 hours, Exciting the public. In 2001, The resale price reportedly reached three times the retail price, And the 116520 equipped with Cal. 4130 became the top combination within a year of its release (WatchTime, October 2001 issue). At the time, The overseas waitlist for the Daytona was over five years, Making it an iconic movement among Rolex enthusiasts. Its quality is so outstanding that it still serves as the heart of all Daytona models today.

Daytona 116520

40mm, Black, Oyster

Daytona 116520

40mm, White, Oyster

Daytona 116500LN

40mm, White, Oyster

Daytona 116523

40mm, Black, Oyster

Daytona 116500LN

40mm, Black, Oyster

Daytona 116515LN

40mm, Chocolate, Black, Strap

Daytona 116515LN

40mm, Black/Diamond, Strap

What is the Next Movement?

Movements have played a significant role in the long-term popularity of iconic models. It is intriguing to wonder how far these movements, Tirelessly working behind the scenes, Will continue to evolve.