The Issue of 3235 Movement and Low Amplitude
Rolex introduced the modern 3235 caliber to replace the legendary 3135. It promised a 70-hour power reserve and higher efficiency. However, many owners report that after 2 to 3 years, their watch starts running slow and usually loses 10 to 20 seconds per day. So, this happens because the movement suffers from a drop in amplitude.
The balance wheel swings between 270 and 310 degrees in a healthy watch. On the other hand, this swings drop below 200 degrees in affected 32xx movements. The watch becomes unstable and loses time when the amplitude is this low, and this issue is the most common in Datejust 31, Submariner Date, and Sea-Dweller models launched after 2015.
Lubrication Breakdown in the Chronergy Escapement
Rolex redesigned the escapement for the 32-series, calling it the Chronergy escapement. It is made of nickel-phosphorus and is lighter and more efficient. So, to function correctly, it requires a very specific type of lubrication. The problem lies in the epilame coating, which is a surface treatment to keep the oil in the correct place.
However, this coating fails or is applied incorrectly on many newer movements at the factory. As a result, the oil migrates away from the pallet fork jewels. The metal parts grind against the stones without oil. Thus, this dry friction reduces the energy reaching the balance and causes the low amplitude issue.
The Dry Bearing and Second Wheel Pivot Wear
A specific weak point in the 3235 caliber is the second wheel pivot. It is a very strong part of the older 3135 movement. But the second wheel bears a high load to support the longer power reserve in the new design. The second wheel pivot begins to wear down rapidly against its jewel bearing when the lubrication dries out.
Our ChronoStreet Watch Repair Experts usually call this the “Dry Bearing” phenomenon. The wear creates metallic dust inside the movement, and this debris further contaminates the gear train and increases friction. Thus, it causes the watch to slow down significantly. A timegrapher will show a messy line and low degrees of amplitude when this damage occurs.
Issues with the Automatic Winding Module
The automatic winding module is another factor contributing to the problem. The reversing wheels in the 32xx series use a different design than previous generations, and these wheels can develop high friction if their lubricant degrades. The rotor can’t spin freely to wind the mainspring when the reversing wheels become sticky.
Even if you wear the watch all day, it may not achieve a full charge. A weak mainspring tension combined with a high-friction escapement makes it impossible for the watch to keep accurate time. That’s why some people find their watch stops overnight even after daily wear.
Also Read: Mechanical or Smart Watches: Which one’s easier to maintain
Is There a Permanent Fix?
Currently, the Rolex Service Center addresses this by performing a full service. The company’s staff cleans the movement, replaces the worn second wheel, and reapplies fresh lubricants. However, we believe this is a design flaw rather than just a bad batch of oil. Rolex has quietly updated some parts in newer batches of 3235 movement.
The company has not officially admitted a defect. If your watch is under the 5-year warranty, you must send it for regulation and service immediately if you find out it is losing time. The issue may return after another 3 to 4 years of use without a permanent update to the pivot design or lubrication process.
