Introduction
Welcome to our in-depth article on the Rolex 1520 movement. At its core, this movement was a breakthrough in the world of watchmaking, featuring technical innovations that paved the way for the modern Rolex watches we know and love today. In this article, we’ll explore the history, advantages, and disadvantages of the Rolex 1520 movement. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or a curious learner, you’ll find valuable insights in this comprehensive guide.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of the Rolex 1520 movement, let’s briefly explore the history of Rolex and how this movement fits into their legacy.
The History of Rolex Watches
Rolex has been a leading name in the world of luxury watches for over a century. The company was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, and was initially known as Wilsdorf & Davis. They specialized in importing Swiss movements and placing them in watch cases made by Dennison, a British manufacturer.
By 1910, Rolex had established itself as a watch manufacturer and began producing its own movements. In 1926, Rolex invented the Oyster case, which was the world’s first waterproof watch case. This innovation propelled Rolex to the top of the watchmaking industry, and they’ve only continued to innovate since then.
Now, let’s turn our focus to the Rolex 1520 movement.
The Rolex 1520 Movement: Explained
The Rolex 1520 movement was introduced in the mid-20th century and quickly became a cornerstone of the Rolex line. It’s a self-winding, automatic movement with a frequency of 19,800 beats per hour (BPH), or 5.5 beats per second. The 1520 movement features 26 jewels and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. This movement was produced from the early 1960s to the mid-1970s, and it was used in many of Rolex’s iconic watches, including the Submariner and GMT-Master.
The Advantages of the Rolex 1520 Movement
There are several advantages to the Rolex 1520 movement that make it an exceptional choice:
Accuracy
The Rolex 1520 movement is known for its accuracy, and it has been proven to be reliable in many different conditions.
Durability
Rolex watches are known for their robustness, and the 1520 movement is no exception. The 1520 features a shock-resistant balance wheel and a Nivarox hairspring, which makes it more resistant to wear and tear than other movements.
Self-Winding
The Rolex 1520 movement is self-winding, which means it winds itself as you wear it. This makes it convenient for everyday wear and ensures that the watch is always running.
Longevity
Rolex watches are known for their longevity, and the 1520 movement is no exception. With proper care and maintenance, a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement can last for decades, if not generations.
The Disadvantages of the Rolex 1520 Movement
While the Rolex 1520 movement is an exceptional choice for many watch enthusiasts, there are a few downsides to consider:
Rarity
Since the 1520 movement was only produced for a limited time, it can be challenging to find watches that contain this movement.
Maintenance
Due to its complexity and rarity, maintaining a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement can be tricky. Finding a skilled watchmaker who can correctly service this movement may be a challenge.
Cost
Rolex watches are known for their high cost, and watches with the 1520 movement can be especially expensive due to their rarity and collectability.
Complete Information about the Rolex 1520 Movement
| Model | Caliber | Movement type | Beats per hour | Jewels | Power reserve |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolex Submariner 5513 | 1520 | Automatic, self-winding | 19,800 | 26 | 42 hours |
| Rolex GMT-Master 1675 | 1520 | Automatic, self-winding | 19,800 | 26 | 42 hours |
| Rolex Explorer II 1655 | 1575 | Automatic, self-winding | 19,800 | 26 | 42 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement is an automatic, self-winding movement that was used in many of Rolex’s iconic watches. It features 26 jewels and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.
2. What watches contain the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement was used in several watches, including the Submariner, GMT-Master, and Explorer II.
3. What are the advantages of the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement is known for its accuracy, durability, self-winding mechanism, and longevity.
4. What are the disadvantages of the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement can be challenging to find due to its rarity, maintaining it can be tricky, and it can be expensive due to its collectability.
5. How long does a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement last?
With proper care and maintenance, a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement can last for decades, if not generations.
6. What is the power reserve of the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement has a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.
7. Can the Rolex 1520 movement be serviced?
Yes, the Rolex 1520 movement can be serviced by a skilled watchmaker who is familiar with this particular movement.
8. How can I tell if a Rolex watch contains a 1520 movement?
You can identify a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement by looking for the caliber number on the watch movement or case back.
9. What is the rarity of the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement was only produced for a limited time, making it a rare and collectible find.
10. How much does a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement cost?
The cost of a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and other factors. Collectible versions can command high prices among collectors.
11. Is the Rolex 1520 movement accurate?
Yes, the Rolex 1520 movement is known for its accuracy and reliability under different conditions.
12. What is the frequency of the Rolex 1520 movement?
The Rolex 1520 movement has a frequency of 19,800 beats per hour (BPH) or 5.5 beats per second.
13. Can a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement be used for diving?
Many Rolex watches with 1520 movements, such as the Submariner, were designed for diving purposes and are waterproof. However, it’s always best to check the watch’s specific features before using it for diving.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, the Rolex 1520 movement is a fascinating and important milestone in the history of watchmaking. It has played a crucial role in the success of Rolex watches and continues to be a sought-after choice among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
While there are some downsides to owning a Rolex watch with a 1520 movement, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. From its accuracy and durability to its self-winding mechanism and longevity, the Rolex 1520 movement is an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a timeless and reliable watch.
Closing
Thank you for reading this comprehensive guide on the Rolex 1520 movement. We hope you found our insights informative and useful. If you’re considering purchasing a Rolex watch, we recommend exploring their watches with 1520 movements, and be sure to find a skilled and reputable watchmaker to service it. Investing in a Rolex with a 1520 movement is not only a sound financial decision, but it’s also a way to enjoy a piece of history and establish a lifelong connection to one of the world’s most iconic watch brands.