The Rolex Caliber 1135 is a manual-winding mechanical movement produced by Rolex during the 1950s and 1960s, as part of the brand’s 11xx series of compact hand-wound calibers. It is the date-equipped version of the Caliber 1130, and was engineered for use in small Rolex watches—particularly ladies' Oysterdate models and elegant mid-size dress watches requiring a date function within a slim, manually wound movement.

Though not widely known outside vintage Rolex circles, the 1135 is a fine example of Rolex’s ability to integrate complication and reliability into compact mechanical calibers without sacrificing precision.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds, date

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: ~42 hours

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

• Shock Protection: Incabloc or KIF

• Hacking Seconds: No

• Quickset Date: No

The date mechanism in the 1135 is non-quickset, meaning the wearer must rotate the hands past midnight to change the date.

Movement Features

The 1135 builds on the foundation of the 1130 by incorporating a calendar complication, while maintaining the same compact size and mechanical layout. Notable features include:

• Slim, hand-wound design suitable for smaller cases

• Rhodium-plated bridges and plates for corrosion resistance

• Durable gear train with date wheel integration

• Shock protection for everyday wear

• Reliable and serviceable construction, typical of Rolex’s mid-century calibers

The added date wheel is seamlessly integrated without compromising the movement’s thin profile.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1135

The Caliber 1135 was primarily used in:

• Rolex Oysterdate models (ladies’ or mid-size)

• Slim-cased Rolex Precision watches with date

• Some Rolex Geneve models featuring a calendar function

• Possibly in early Tudor date watches, sharing Rolex-supplied movements

These watches typically featured:

• Small to mid-sized Oyster cases, usually between 24–30 mm

• Domed acrylic crystals with Cyclops magnifier over the date window

• Signed “Precision” dials with elegant baton or dauphine hands

• Manual-wind crowns, often without the Triplock system

Serviceability and Performance

The Caliber 1135 is considered:

• Durable and easy to maintain, thanks to its simple architecture

• Mechanically consistent, when properly serviced (recommended every 4–6 years)

• Compatible with parts from related 11xx movements, aiding long-term repairability

Its low-beat movement and straightforward calendar mechanism contribute to its long operational life.

Collectibility and Appeal

While the 1135 is not particularly rare or high in value, it has growing appeal among:

• Collectors of vintage Rolex Oysterdate models

• Watch enthusiasts who favor hand-wound watches with classic styling

• Those seeking elegant Rolex watches in smaller case sizes

• Buyers who appreciate mechanical over quartz movements in vintage women’s or unisex watches

A well-preserved watch housing the 1135—especially with original dial, crown, and bracelet—offers timeless appeal at an accessible price.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1135 is a quiet workhorse in the brand’s vintage lineup—an elegant, compact manual-wind movement with the added functionality of a date complication. Built with Rolex’s signature emphasis on reliability and precision, the 1135 reflects the brand’s dedication to mechanical excellence across all sizes and styles. For vintage collectors and everyday wearers alike, it offers a refined, practical, and enduring piece of Rolex history.