The Rolex Caliber 1120 is a manual-winding mechanical movement produced during the 1950s and 1960s, used primarily in ladies’ Rolex watches and some mid-size dress references. It belongs to Rolex’s extended 11xx series of compact, hand-wound calibers, offering a slim and efficient design built for time-only functionality. Though less known than the automatic movements of the same era, the 1120 reflects Rolex’s commitment to producing high-precision calibers even in the smallest case sizes.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes

• Jewels: 17

• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (vph)

• Power Reserve: ~42 hours

• Chronometer Certified: No (commonly marked “Precision”)

• Shock Protection: Incabloc or KIF

• Date Function: No

• Hacking Seconds: No

The 1120 is a time-only movement, simple in architecture and ideal for thin, elegant watches intended for daily use or formal wear.

Movement Design and Features

The Caliber 1120 was built with Rolex’s typical standards for quality and durability, scaled down for smaller watch cases:

• Three-bridge layout with manual winding

• Rhodium-plated bridges and plates for corrosion resistance

• Minimal gear train optimized for compact energy transmission

• Shock-protected balance wheel

• Compact dimensions, fitting case sizes between 24 mm and 28 mm

Despite its modest size, it was engineered for accuracy and mechanical longevity.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1120

The Rolex 1120 was commonly found in:

• Ladies’ Rolex Oyster Precision models

• Slim-cased Rolex dress watches, often in 9k, 14k, or 18k gold

• Select Rolex Geneve pieces marketed in Europe

• Some Tudor watches, which shared Rolex components during this period

These watches typically featured:

• Minimalist dials with baton markers or small numerals

• Slim bezels and domed acrylic crystals

• Small winding crowns without guards

• Leather straps or lightweight metal bracelets

Servicing and Reliability

The Caliber 1120 is considered:

• Highly serviceable, especially for vintage-trained watchmakers

• Mechanically sound, with a reputation for long-lasting performance

• Simple to maintain, with basic lubrication and timing adjustment at 4–6 year intervals

Replacement parts may need to be sourced through vintage parts suppliers, but many components are shared across the Rolex 11xx manual family.

Collectibility and Value

While not a high-value movement on its own, the Caliber 1120 is appreciated for:

• Historical significance in Rolex’s mid-century catalog

• Elegant presentation in smaller-sized watches

• Mechanical charm for collectors who value hand-wound Rolex references

• Providing a more affordable entry point into vintage Rolex collecting

Watches with this caliber are especially attractive when housed in gold or two-tone cases with original dials and hands.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1120 is a fine example of Rolex’s dedication to mechanical precision—even in its smallest, simplest watches. Designed for reliability and elegance, it powered a generation of refined, hand-wound timepieces worn by those who valued craftsmanship without excess. Today, it remains a quiet classic: perfect for vintage enthusiasts who appreciate Rolex quality in a discreet and timeless format.