3035 Movement

[autofiend]

Hi all. After some back and forth, I flipped a recently purchased 14060M for a 7 mil series 16800 (matte dial -original). Unfortunately, after having it a few days, I found it to be running erratically. I took it to a Rolex certified watchmaker I've used for years and it was his opinion the watch was NEVER serviced (!). No service marks and the amplitude was way off likely due to a loose mainspring. Luckily, the seller is stand up and is willing to cover the service.

Anyway, I asked the watchmaker about the 3035 and he advised the earlier versions (like mine) sometimes had an issue with the oscillating weight fastener that attaches it to the auto wind system (weight can become unbalanced over time) He said Rolex corrected this issue in the 3035 run.

I was looking for some more info on this change. Does anyone have some specific info on this? I'm just curious.

Obviously if the 3035 can still run after 30 years without a service, it's more than robust.

[Brushpup]

Well, they've been in a few watches that's for sure. I know of the shortcomings, but they served well in their day and lots are still ticking away.

[autofiend]

Anyone know when the improvement to the 3035 was made and what it entailed?

[77T]

I can't recall a rotor-related issue that was changed in the 3035.

Some watchmakers say things based on their service experience with a movement - the 3035 has experienced issues with the auto weight axles and axle jewels (usually the top jewel) when not kept lubricated properly. It is a plain race bearing but I believe it is the same plain bearing in the 3135.

The parts have morphed over time though - mostly to improve longevity and accuracy.

[Brushpup]

Perhaps mid eighties? I believe they went to a balance bridge as a big improvement. Pardon me if my memory is lacking.

[autofiend]

Originally Posted by 77T

I can't recall a rotor-related issue that was changed in the 3035.

Some watchmakers say things based on their service experience with a movement - the 3035 has experienced issues with the auto weight axles and axle jewels (usually the top jewel) when not kept lubricated properly. It is a plain race bearing but I believe it is the same plain bearing in the 3135.

The parts have morphed over time though - mostly to improve longevity and accuracy.

I think you are right on the plain race bearing. I can find any info on changes anywhere, so like you say, it may be an observation of some evolutionary changes over the years.

Thanks all- hopefully it will come back in tip top form. We'll see if it needs any new parts besides the mainspring. It would make sense if the axle jewel was worn if it never received a service.

[autofiend]

Just a quick update:
Received word from the watchmaker: no additional parts needed (other than what is usually changed at service) - amplitude is now perfect and it's running well within COSC specs. Good news for a 30+ year old movement that's likely never seen a service. He said the parts showed surprisingly little wear. I'll pick it up tomorrow or Wednesday and will post pics.
Cheers-

[anilzat]

Me thinks 30 years of ticking is good. Give it a D&C it will last another 30 years!

[autofiend]

16800 back from its first service EVER- running like a top now! Still on atomic time since this morning- looking good.

Cheers all-

[damo_t]

Originally Posted by autofiend

16800 back from its first service EVER- running like a top now! Still on atomic time since this morning- looking good.

Cheers all-

Awesome! Glad it all worked out. Love the brown leather strap look you have.

Here's my 16800 too. :)