The Rolex Air King, a watch steeped in history and aviation heritage, has undergone several iterations throughout its lifespan. One key differentiator between older and newer models lies within the movement powering their precise timekeeping. This article focuses specifically on the Rolex caliber 3130, comparing it to its predecessor, the caliber 1520, and addressing the crucial question: Is the newer movement worth the price premium?
The Rolex Air King, in its current form, is powered by the self-winding caliber 3130. This movement represents a significant step forward from the older caliber 1520 found in previous generations. However, a thorough comparison requires understanding the nuances of both movements to appreciate the advancements and determine if the upgrade justifies the cost.
Rolex 3130: A Closer Look
The Rolex caliber 3130 is a robust, reliable, and relatively modern movement. Introduced in 2007, it represents a significant upgrade in terms of performance and longevity compared to its predecessors. It's a workhorse movement, designed for durability and precision, perfectly suited to the Air King's understated elegance and functionality.
Key features of the caliber 3130 include:
* Self-winding mechanism: The 3130 utilizes a highly efficient self-winding system, ensuring consistent power reserve even with moderate wrist movement. This eliminates the need for manual winding, offering convenience and ease of use.
* Parachrom hairspring: One of the most significant advancements in the 3130 is the inclusion of the Parachrom hairspring. This patented Rolex component is made from a paramagnetic alloy, making it significantly more resistant to magnetic fields than traditional hairsprings. This enhanced resistance to magnetism ensures greater accuracy and reliability in today's increasingly magnetic environment.
* High-performance escapement: The escapement system in the 3130 is optimized for efficiency and precision, contributing to the movement's accuracy and longevity. This system is crucial for regulating the rate of the watch, ensuring consistent timekeeping.
* Power reserve: The 3130 offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. This means the watch will continue to run for two full days after it's removed from the wrist, providing flexibility and convenience.
* Jewels: The movement contains 31 jewels, which minimize friction and wear on the moving parts, contributing to its long lifespan.
* Officially Certified Chronometer: Like all Rolex movements, the 3130 is a COSC-certified chronometer, meaning it has passed rigorous testing and meets strict accuracy standards. This certification is a testament to Rolex's commitment to precision and quality.
* Maintenance and Servicing: While the 3130 is a robust movement, it will still require periodic servicing like any mechanical watch. Rolex recommends servicing every five to ten years, depending on usage and environmental factors. This ensures the continued accuracy and longevity of the watch.
Rolex Caliber 1520: The Predecessor
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