How to tell a real Rolex modern movement

[fsprow]

Please read no further if for one reason or another you are unable or unwilling to take the back off of a watch and examine the movement. I’m not suggesting you do any work on the movement, although I’ve been comfortable adjusting time keeping, which is a somewhat hair raising job. Here I am only talking about looking at the movement. Obviously, you should not do this if the watch is still under warranty or it is owned by someone else, who is not giving you permission to do so.

The Rolex, at least in its modern form, uses what is called a free sprung balance, in which one adjust weights on the balance wheel, rather than changing the length of the spring using tabs on the movement. It is easy to identify the free sprung balance (Google it), and its microstella weights. To my knowledge no fake movements, including the so called super clones, use a free sprung balance with microstella weights. Be sure if you do this, to check the o-ring on the back, and lubricate it with a light grease prior to replacing. Note that I’m only verifying the movement here, not other features, such as the dial, hands, case, etc..

[Andad]

Just make sure you also check under the balance bridge.