Deciphering the Rolex Crown: The Meaning Behind the Symbols on the Crown
Just as luxury brand watches proudly display their logos, much like car manufacturers,
Deciphering the Rolex Crown: The Meaning Behind the Symbols on the Crown
Just as luxury brand watches proudly display their logos, much like car manufacturers, Rolex watches feature distinct symbols on their crowns, serving as a hallmark of authenticity and precision craftsmanship. These logos, which can be graphic or alphanumeric, are meticulously placed in plain view, becoming a beautiful “scenery” on the watch itself. In contrast, counterfeit watches often fall short in replicating these intricate details, with their logos appearing blurred and crudely made.
Rolex’s Oyster case watches, renowned for their exceptional water resistance, owe much of their integrity to the design of their crowns. Since the crown is a moving part that requires frequent operation, its sealing is crucial. Rolex employs a screw-down crown structure that seals tightly like a bottle stopper, further reinforced by at least two waterproof gaskets. For instance, models like the Submariner (16610LV) and the Daytona series feature up to three gaskets, with an additional one placed on the outer side of the tube, visible when the crown is pulled out.
On a Rolex crown, one may notice several markings below the Rolex crown logo, represented by dots or dashes. These symbols signify the case material and also the crown and case construction:
Interpreting the Symbols:
1. **A single dot** indicates that the watch has a PT950 platinum case, a precious metal known for its substantial weight.
2. **Two dots** symbolize the use of 18K white gold or yellow gold for the case.
3. **Three dots** can be interpreted as triple waterproofing, with an additional visible gasket on the crown’s tube. If the watch case is made of platinum, the middle dot among the three will be smaller; if made of 18K white gold, the outer dots will be smaller. A uniform size of all three dots equates to the use of dashes, usually indicating 18K gold, a combination of 18K gold and stainless steel, or all stainless steel.
4. **A dash** is the most common symbol and acts as a “wildcard,” denoting a dual waterproof case with the material being either 18K gold, a combination of 18K gold and stainless steel, or entirely stainless steel. This configuration is prevalent among Rolex watches.
Conclusion:
The crown of a Rolex is not just a functional component for time adjustment and water resistance; it carries the legacy and precision engineering that Rolex stands for. Each symbol on a Rolex crown tells a story of the materials and craftsmanship embedded within, guiding enthusiasts and collectors in appreciating the subtleties that make each Rolex timepiece unique.
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