Rolex’s Steel of Choice: 904L Stainless Steel To begin, they use their own proprietary blend called Oystersteel, which you can read more about here. The primary metal used in Oystersteel is 904L stainless steel, which is a highly durable steel and more corrosion resistant than other variations of the metal.
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Did Rolex make stainless steel watches?
While there are plenty of gold and platinum Rolex watches available, it’s the stainless steel versions that are the brand’s most popular. In addition to being more affordable than their precious metal counterparts (generally speaking), they are also typically more understated, rugged, and sporty.
What grade is Rolex stainless steel?
904L
For many years Rolex used the popular stainless steel grade 316L, which is the standard for round 95% of the watch industry. In 2001 however, they changed from using 316L to 904L and are currently the only watchmaker in the world to use this grade for their watchcases.
When did Rolex start using 904L stainless steel?
Rolex themselves has stated, “In 1985, Rolex became the first watchmaking brand to use this steel from the 904L family for its cases.”.
When did Rolex change steel?
904L Steel – 1985 / Oystersteel – 2018
- In 1985, Rolex became the first watch brand to use 904L stainless steel (instead of 316L stainless steel) for the construction of its watches.
- The steel switch first appeared on the Sea-Dweller then Rolex eventually rolled it out to other steel models.
Why is there a stainless steel shortage on Rolex?
The simple and short answer to the question of why there is a shortage of Rolex professional models – in particular, stainless steel sports models, is that the demand exceeds the supply. In other words the number of watches that Rolex manufacture.
What steel is used on Rolex?
904L steel
A Rolex watch must work perfectly and maintain its beauty even in the harshest environments. That is why Rolex uses Oystersteel, a steel alloy specific to the brand. Oystersteel belongs to the 904L steel family, which is particularly resistant to corrosion and acquires an exceptional sheen when polished.
What is the cheapest Rolex you can buy?
36mm Oyster Perpetual
What Is The Cheapest Rolex. The cheapest Rolex is the 36mm Oyster Perpetual which costs $5,800 MSRP. The Oyster Perpetual is a no date stainless steel sports model that is considered the most affordable or entry level men’s Rolex.
Is stainless steel better than white gold?
Stainless steel, in its soft, fully annealed state is about 155 Vickers, but at full hardening can reach 390 Vickers, which is 70 percent harder than platinum or white gold. This means that stainless steel will resist wear, dents, dings, and scratches better than either white gold or platinum.
What does 904L mean on Rolex?
904L is a low-carbon, high alloy stainless steel, with additives of copper, chronium, nickel and molybdenum. Most commonly used in the aerospace and chemical industries, 904L has excellent anti-corrosion properties, that are comparable to those of precious metals.
What is better 316L or 904L?
If we were to look at specifications alone, it’s easy to say that, actually, 904L is indeed the superior alloy. It has incredibly high corrosion resistance. This is critical for some applications, but 316L is more than enough for most luxury watchmaking.
Is 904L steel harder than 316?
Type 904L contains more chromium, molybdenum and nickel then 316L, plus also some copper, manganese and silicon, which makes it more corrosion resistant than 316L. But the main issue with 904L, besides its extremely high price, is that it is still harder to process than 316L.
What kind of steel does Patek Philippe use?
Watch Applications
The majority of bracelets and cases use 316L surgical steel for its an-allergic properties. Patek Philippe Nautilus. Image source: Patek Philippe Archive.
Does Rolex make steel watches?
Rolex’s Steel of Choice: 904L Stainless Steel
To begin, they use their own proprietary blend called Oystersteel, which you can read more about here. The primary metal used in Oystersteel is 904L stainless steel, which is a highly durable steel and more corrosion resistant than other variations of the metal.
Does Rolex steel rust?
Rolex has used stainless steel throughout its whole production history. But the fact is that even though stainless steel is resistant to staining, pitting, and rusting, it is not rust-proof. This means that stainless steel can, in fact, rust.
What did Rolex use before 904L?
316L
It wasn’t that long ago that Rolex ditched 316L to 904L. For years, 316L was hailed for its ability to ward off salt water and acidic liquids due to its low carbon content. But around 2000, Rolex noticed that salt water was actually worming its way into the caseback threads and watchband.
Are Rolexes cheaper in Switzerland?
Rolex approves the jewelers that sell their watches and is very strict about retail pricing. The retail price will not be significantly less in Switzerland and I am confident that you realize that Rolex watches are expensive, beginning at $7,500 USD ≈ $9,000 CAD ≈ $8,500 CHF.
Why is Rolex so hard to get now?
The pandemic affected supply, but that’s not the whole story
And even simple, time-only mechanical watches contain over a hundred tiny parts. Like everything else in 2020, the Rolex factory shut down for a number of months due to COVID-19, so there was at least some impact on supply.
Why is it so hard to buy a new Rolex?
Why are Rolexes So Hard to Find? Rolex watches are a hot commodity because of their scarcity. The lack of supply is emphasized by supply chain shortages seen across many industries due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
How do I know my Rolex is genuine?
Here are some factors to look out for:
- Rolex serial number. Every Rolex watch has a unique serial number consisting of 4 – 8 characters.
- Serial number placement & quality.
- The Rolex logo.
- Metal case back.
- Movement.
- Seconds hand.
- Sound.
- Date display.
Does Rolex scratch easily?
Wearing and using your Rolex watch will result in scratches. However, there are steps you can take to avoid scratching. For instance, you can lay your Rolex on a soft cloth or in its box at night. Everest offers two types of cleaning clothes here.