The Rolex Caliber 1160 is a manual-winding mechanical movement from the 1950s to early 1960s, developed as part of Rolex’s refined 11xx series of compact hand-wound calibers. Designed primarily for ladies’ watches and smaller-cased dress models, the 1160 offered time-only functionality within a slim, durable platform. It reflects Rolex’s post-war strategy of offering mechanical excellence across all sizes, not just in its professional tool watches but also in elegant, everyday timepieces.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes

• 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

• Date Function: No

The Caliber 1160 was made for watches without complications, offering a clean and compact design ideal for time-only references.

Movement Design and Features

The 1160 continues Rolex’s philosophy of simplicity, serviceability, and quality:

• Three-bridge architecture, typical of Rolex manual calibers

• Rhodium-plated bridges and plates for anti-corrosion performance

• Low height and narrow diameter, ideal for smaller cases

• Smooth winding system, designed for everyday durability

• Balance wheel with flat hairspring, manually regulated

Its clean layout and efficient construction made the 1160 a reliable choice for slim, elegant timepieces.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1160

The Caliber 1160 was typically used in:

• Ladies' Rolex Precision watches

• Small Rolex Oyster models (manual-wind, 24–28 mm case size)

• Rolex Geneve dress models from the 1950s and early 1960s

• Select Tudor watches, since Rolex often supplied movements during that time

These watches usually featured:

• “Precision” or “Rolex Geneve” dials

• Slim, polished cases in gold, gold-plated, or stainless steel

• Simple baton or dauphine hands

• Manual crowns and domed acrylic crystals

Servicing and Reliability

The 1160 remains appreciated for:

• Mechanical simplicity and ease of servicing

• Reliable performance over decades, when properly maintained

• Shared components with other 11xx movements, aiding parts availability

• Service interval: typically every 4–6 years

Vintage watchmakers find the movement straightforward to clean, lubricate, and adjust.

Collectibility and Market Value

While not among Rolex’s most valuable calibers, the 1160 is respected by:

• Collectors of vintage ladies’ Rolex watches

• Watchmakers and restoration professionals

• Enthusiasts seeking authentic Rolex craftsmanship in a compact form

• Buyers preferring manual-wind watches over quartz in classic cases

Originality, condition, and materials (especially 14k or 18k gold cases) play a key role in determining value.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1160 is a quiet example of Rolex’s mechanical mastery scaled down. Created for elegance, simplicity, and long-term use, it delivered reliable timekeeping in some of the brand’s most charming mid-century watches. While not famous, it’s an important part of Rolex’s mechanical heritage—perfect for vintage collectors who appreciate understated excellence in a smaller package.