The Rolex Caliber 1161 is a manual-winding mechanical movement developed in the 1950s to early 1960s, and it is the date-equipped version of the Caliber 1160. Designed specifically for ladies’ Rolex watches and small Oysterdate models, the 1161 offered a practical blend of compactness and functionality, bringing a date complication to Rolex’s slim, hand-wound movement line.

Though not widely known, the 1161 exemplifies Rolex’s dedication to precision and utility, even in smaller watch formats, and it powered a range of refined and elegant timepieces during a key period of Rolex expansion into everyday wear watches.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes, date (with central hands and date window at 3 o’clock)

• Jewels: 17

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

• Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours

• Shock Protection: Incabloc or KIF

• Chronometer Certified: No (typically found in “Precision” models)

• Quickset Date: No

• Hacking Seconds: No

The date changes by manually rotating the hands past midnight, as the movement predates the quickset function introduced in later decades.

Movement Features

The Caliber 1161 builds upon the 1160’s clean architecture by incorporating a calendar mechanism while maintaining its small footprint. Key attributes include:

• Three-bridge layout with a compact calendar geartrain

• Rhodium-plated plates and bridges for corrosion resistance

• Durable mainspring barrel for consistent torque delivery

• Date wheel integrated beneath the dial, advancing slowly near midnight

• Manual winding system, refined for smooth operation

Despite the added complication, the 1161 maintains excellent reliability and is built to Rolex’s exacting standards for longevity and accuracy.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1161

The Caliber 1161 was primarily used in:

• Ladies’ Rolex Oysterdate Precision models

• Mid-size Oyster-cased dress watches with a date window

• Slim manual-wind Rolex Geneve pieces

• Some early Tudor Oysterdate watches, especially those built with Rolex cases and crowns

These timepieces were generally:

• Between 24 mm and 28 mm in diameter

• Fitted with domed acrylic crystals, often with a Cyclops magnifier over the date

• Featuring dials marked "Precision", with elegant baton or Roman numeral hour markers

• Made in steel, gold, or gold-plated cases, paired with leather straps or Jubilee/Oyster bracelets

Servicing and Longevity

The Caliber 1161 is known for:

• Robust construction relative to its size

• Ease of service, with available parts shared across other Rolex 11xx movements

• Simple, reliable date mechanism, requiring minimal adjustment once properly maintained

Routine service every 4–6 years helps ensure continued accuracy and smooth operation.

Collectibility and Appeal

While the 1161 is not a high-profile Rolex movement, it is increasingly appreciated for:

• Vintage charm and elegant proportions

• Mechanical authenticity in ladies’ or unisex watches

• Durability over quartz alternatives, making it appealing to collectors of manual-wind models

• Affordability, often serving as an entry point into vintage Rolex ownership

Timepieces featuring the 1161 are especially desirable when well-preserved and cased in gold or two-tone Oyster cases.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1161 is a compact, elegant, and mechanically sound movement that brought the practical advantage of a calendar complication to Rolex’s mid-century manual-wind ladies’ collection. Though simple by modern standards, it remains a fine example of Rolex’s pursuit of quality across all product tiers and sizes. For those interested in vintage Rolex watches with refined design and everyday usability, the 1161 represents both heritage and practicality in miniature form.