The Rolex Caliber 1400 is a manual-winding mechanical movement produced by Rolex during the 1980s and 1990s, primarily for use in ladies’ time-only watches. As part of Rolex’s 14xx series of compact hand-wound calibers, it succeeded earlier 13xx and 12xx series movements like the Caliber 1310 and 1220. The 1400 was designed to deliver high reliability, slim construction, and precise timekeeping within the smaller case sizes favored for dress watches and formal wear.

Though simple in function, the 1400 was crafted with Rolex’s usual standards of engineering excellence, offering a clean and efficient solution for elegant, hand-wound timepieces.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Manual-wind

• Functions: Hours, minutes

• Jewels: 17

• Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph)

• Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours

• Shock Protection: KIF or Incabloc

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

• Hacking Seconds: No

• Date Function: No

The 1400 was intended for case sizes between 24 mm and 28 mm, with a slim profile suitable for refined, dress-style watches.

Movement Features

The Rolex Caliber 1400 is a continuation of Rolex’s tradition of durable and minimal manual movements, featuring:

• Three-bridge architecture for structural stability

• Rhodium-plated bridges and plates for corrosion resistance

• Flat hairspring with fine manual regulation

• Free-sprung balance wheel, ensuring stability in timekeeping

• Smooth, high-beat performance at 21,600 vph

Despite its compact nature, it was engineered for precision, ease of service, and long-term performance.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1400

The Caliber 1400 was used in various Rolex ladies’ watches, particularly:

• Rolex Cellini (manual-wind models) – Known for slim profiles, precious metal cases, and formal design

• Rolex Oyster Precision (manual) – Compact Oyster-cased models with classic aesthetics

• Occasionally in Rolex Geneve-branded watches from select markets

• Rarely, in custom or regional models with special dials or case designs

These watches typically featured:

• Simple, elegant dials with baton or Roman numeral hour markers

• Domed acrylic or mineral crystals

• Non-screw-down crowns (especially on Cellini models)

• Leather straps or slim gold bracelets

Service and Reliability

The 1400 is widely respected for:

• Durability in compact dimensions

• Easy maintenance, with straightforward construction

• Good parts availability, particularly among Rolex-trained watchmakers

• Long operating life, when serviced every 4–6 years

It is a watchmaker-friendly movement, built for longevity even under regular use.

Collectibility and Appeal

While not considered a high-value movement on its own, the Caliber 1400 is valued by:

• Collectors of vintage Rolex dress watches

• Watch enthusiasts seeking refined, hand-wound Rolex models

• Buyers preferring traditional mechanical watches in smaller cases

• Those who appreciate minimalist functionality and elegant wrist presence

Watches housing the 1400 in gold, platinum, or two-tone configurations—especially within the Cellini line—are particularly desirable for collectors.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1400 is a fine example of Rolex’s philosophy that mechanical excellence should extend to every size and format. Designed for ladies’ watches, it delivered precision and longevity in a slim, unobtrusive package. Whether in a classic Cellini or a vintage Oyster Precision, the 1400 represents a piece of quiet horological craftsmanship, ideal for those who value refined simplicity and enduring reliability in a mechanical timepiece.