Rolex. Pinnacle of time keeping?

Image from www.rolex.com

Hello all,

When it comes to watches, Rolex receives the most amount of notoriety in the United States. Their timeless design and precise movements are what draws the attention that it receives. At the same time, they have a stigma from many longtime owners that they do not keep good time.

As with most finely crafted and tuned machines, regular maintenance and care is key to keeping your Rolex running properly and timed to strict standards. Most Rolex timepieces contain automatic movements. Automatic movements are typically composed of over 200 metal parts and gears that work together to keep time. The movement gains it's power through a mainspring that is wound with a weighted rotor that moves while the wearer is moving.

Automatic watches should be serviced once every 3 to 5 years. This service is also refereed to an overhaul which includes disassembling the entire mechanism and cleaning each part. After the parts are cleaned, the watch is then reassembled, oils are added to the proper places, then the watch is timed in 6 positions.

Automatic watches should be accurate within 2 to 3 minutes per month. The accuracy will as it ages and if not regularly maintained. A typical service or overhaul will be $350 to $700 (price will vary depending on your local jewelry store or watch maker). This also should include an outer refinish that will restore the timepiece to it's original beauty.

So what about you?  Do you have a favorite watch?  When was the last time you had it serviced?

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Note: this post is not sponsored by Rolex.   I doubt they even know me.