Introduced in 1988 to replace the 3035 movement, Rolex calibre 3135 is used in more of their wristwatch models than any other movement. The self-winding mechanical movement powers the Submariner Date, Deepsea Sea-Dweller, Yacht-Master and Datejust 36mm.

Rolex's 3135 Movement (photo: Rolex)

Developed and manufactured entirely by Rolex, the 3135 movement measures 28.5 mm in diameter with a height of 6 mm. It is equipped with 31 jewels, a Perpetual rotor and Rolex's patented blue Parachrom hairspring, making it ten times more precise than other mechanical watch movements. A Rolex overcoil ensures its regularity regardless of its position and it has a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

This impressive movement has been around for so long because of its superior design and construction. Over the years, it has incorporated other Rolex innovations, like the blue Parachrom hairspring, to keep it up to date. It is a large movement, which allows Rolex to fit it with the most efficient and effective mechanical parts they manufacture.

The movement's frequency of 28,800 beats per hour (bph) can be appreciated in the YouTube video below. Hearing the sound of the movement while watching its parts interact is very soothing. Perhaps getting a glimpse of the heart of the watch is the reason the skeleton watch trend has taken such a strong hold over the past few years.

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