The Rolex Caliber 1130 is a manual-winding mechanical movement developed in the 1950s and used primarily in ladies’ watches and small dress models. It belongs to the extended 11xx series of compact hand-wound Rolex calibers. Like other movements in this family, the 1130 was designed for time-only functionality with a focus on reliability, serviceability, and elegance, fitting perfectly into the slim, understated watches of the era.

While overshadowed by larger automatic movements in Rolex’s lineup, the Caliber 1130 reflects the same commitment to mechanical excellence—even in the brand’s most discreet timepieces.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours

• Chronometer Certified: No (usually found in “Precision”-marked watches)

• Shock Protection: Incabloc or KIF

• Date Function: No

• Hacking Seconds: No

The 1130 is a time-only, hand-wound movement, engineered for compact cases typically ranging from 24 mm to 28 mm.

Design and Features

Though compact and minimalistic, the Rolex 1130 was made with high-quality materials and careful finishing:

• Three-bridge movement design

• Rhodium-plated components to resist corrosion

• Flat hairspring with manually regulated balance

• Durable gear train suited for daily winding

• Shock protection integrated into the balance assembly

• Clean and simple construction optimized for long-term performance

Its layout and construction made it easy to service and dependable for decades with routine maintenance.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1130

The Caliber 1130 was found in various ladies' Rolex models, including:

• Rolex Oyster Precision (manual-wind) watches

• Slim, gold-cased Rolex dress watches, especially those produced in the 1950s and 1960s

• Select Rolex Geneve models

• Possibly Tudor-branded timepieces, given the overlap in movements during this era

Typical characteristics of these watches include:

• “Precision” text on the dial (no chronometer certification)

• Dauphine or baton hands, with minimalist hour markers

• Manual winding crowns, sometimes without a screw-down feature

• Leather straps or fine link gold bracelets

Serviceability and Reliability

The Caliber 1130 is known for:

• Mechanical durability despite its small size

• Ease of maintenance for trained watchmakers

• Compatibility with parts shared across the 11xx movement family

A properly serviced 1130 can continue to keep reliable time decades after production, provided it receives routine care every 4–6 years.

Collectibility and Appeal

While not highly collectible in terms of market value, the 1130 holds value for:

• Vintage Rolex enthusiasts focused on elegance and subtlety

• Collectors of ladies’ or unisex mid-century wristwatches

• Buyers seeking authentic Rolex mechanics in a more compact and accessible package

Condition, originality, and case material (particularly solid gold) can significantly influence a watch’s appeal.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1130 is a fine example of Rolex’s dedication to craftsmanship across all sizes and styles. While it lacks the fame of the brand’s sports models, it powered a generation of graceful, reliable timepieces that offered Rolex quality in its purest, most understated form. For collectors or wearers who appreciate vintage hand-wound watches, the 1130 delivers timeless mechanical charm and elegant simplicity.