The Rolex Caliber 1560 is a self-winding mechanical movement introduced in the late 1950s, and it represents one of the most important milestones in Rolex’s evolution toward modern automatic watchmaking. Part of the brand’s iconic 1500-series, the 1560 was a chronometer-certified movement that laid the groundwork for the even more widely used Caliber 1570.

The 1560 is revered for its reliability, precision, and long-term durability. It powered some of Rolex’s most legendary models throughout the 1960s and is still highly respected among vintage watch collectors and professional watchmakers.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Automatic (self-winding)

• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds

• Jewels: 26

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

• Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours

• Chronometer Certified: Yes (COSC-certified)

• Hacking Seconds: No

• Quickset Date: No (date function only in Cal. 1565/1566 variants)

The Caliber 1560 did not include hacking seconds or quickset date features, which were considered luxuries at the time. However, it was built with a focus on robustness and long-term accuracy.

Movement Design and Features

As part of Rolex’s in-house movement strategy, the 1560 included several innovative and robust features:

• Bidirectional rotor winding for efficient power generation

• Free-sprung balance wheel with Microstella screws for fine regulation

• KIF shock protection system

• Full balance bridge, offering improved shock resistance over earlier balance cock designs

• Rhodium-plated plates and bridges for corrosion resistance

It was built on a solid baseplate and used high-quality finishing and lubrication points for extended service life.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1560

The 1560 was used in many of Rolex’s most iconic mid-century models, including:

• Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016 – A legendary field watch

• Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 – One of the first chronometer-rated Submariners

• Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500 (in some rare variants)

• Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 1002

• Early GMT-Master Ref. 1675 – In GMT variant Caliber 1565

These watches were known for their reliability and simplicity—hallmarks of tool watches meant to endure demanding use.

Variants of the Caliber 1560

Rolex produced several related calibers based on the 1560 architecture:

• Caliber 1565 – Adds a date function

• Caliber 1565 GMT – Adds both date and GMT (24-hour hand)

• Caliber 1566 – Day-Date variant with day and date functions

All of these variants share the same mechanical base and quality construction.

Servicing and Longevity

The Caliber 1560 is considered very durable and highly serviceable. Parts remain available through Rolex and the vintage watchmaker community, and its modular construction allows for efficient repair and maintenance.

Even after decades, many watches powered by the 1560 continue to perform within chronometer standards if properly maintained.

Collectibility and Legacy

The 1560 is a highly respected movement among collectors due to its:

• Use in historic Rolex models

• High level of precision and finishing

• Role as a transitional movement toward the more modern Caliber 1570

Though it lacks some conveniences of modern movements, it more than makes up for it in terms of historical importance, reliability, and mechanical elegance.

Final Thoughts

The Rolex Caliber 1560 is a foundational movement in Rolex’s mechanical history. Durable, precise, and widely used in some of the brand’s most iconic models, it represents the golden era of mid-20th-century watchmaking. For collectors, owning a Rolex powered by the 1560 is not just about timekeeping—it's about experiencing the engineering that made Rolex a legend.