rolex submariner perde minuti | 2020 Rolex Submariner losing time

The Rolex Submariner. Just the name evokes images of deep-sea exploration, timeless elegance, and unparalleled craftsmanship. For many, it's more than just a watch; it's an heirloom, a symbol of achievement, and a reliable companion. However, even the most meticulously engineered machines can experience issues. One common concern among Submariner owners is the dreaded "Rolex Submariner perde minuti" – the Italian phrase for "Rolex Submariner losing minutes."

While a slight deviation from perfect timekeeping is expected in mechanical watches, a significant loss of minutes can be concerning. This article delves into the potential causes of a Submariner losing time, specifically when the loss is significant enough to be measured in minutes, rather than just seconds. We will explore the various factors that can contribute to this issue, discuss troubleshooting steps, and provide guidance on when professional servicing is necessary. We'll also touch upon related concerns like the general longevity of a Rolex, and what to expect in terms of accuracy over its lifespan.

Understanding the Movement: The Heart of the Matter

Before diving into the specifics of time loss, it's crucial to understand the beating heart of your Submariner: the movement. Rolex Submariners typically house in-house automatic movements, renowned for their robustness and precision. These movements, such as the Caliber 3135 (older models) or the Caliber 3235 (newer models, including the 2020 Submariner), are intricate mechanisms comprised of hundreds of tiny parts working in perfect harmony.

The movement relies on a mainspring to store energy, which is then released gradually to power the escapement. The escapement regulates the release of energy, allowing the balance wheel to oscillate at a precise frequency. This oscillation, typically measured in beats per hour (BPH), determines the watch's accuracy. The Caliber 3135, for example, oscillates at 28,800 BPH, while the Caliber 3235 boasts a Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency and power reserve.

Distinguishing Seconds from Minutes: The Importance of Accurate Observation

The phrase "Rolex Submariner perde minuti" implies a significant deviation from accurate time. It's essential to differentiate between a loss of seconds per day, which is relatively common and often within acceptable tolerances for a mechanical watch, and a loss of minutes per day, which indicates a more serious problem.

As the initial statement in the prompt highlights, if the minute hand is accurately aligned when you synchronize your watch with a reliable time source (like an atomic clock or computer time), and you later observe that the watch is lagging, the issue is most likely a loss of seconds, not minutes. However, if the minute hand itself is demonstrably behind the correct time after a relatively short period (hours or a day), then you are indeed experiencing a loss of minutes.

Potential Causes of a Rolex Submariner Losing Minutes:

Several factors can contribute to a Submariner losing a significant amount of time. These can be broadly categorized as:

1. Magnetization:

* The Problem: This is perhaps the most common and easily rectified issue. Modern life is filled with magnetic fields emanating from smartphones, laptops, appliances, and even certain types of jewelry. Exposure to these fields can magnetize the delicate components within the watch movement, particularly the balance spring. A magnetized balance spring can cause the watch to run erratically, often leading to significant time loss or gain.

* The Symptoms: Inconsistent timekeeping, unpredictable gains or losses, and a general lack of accuracy are hallmarks of magnetization. The watch might run fast for a period and then slow down, or vice versa.

* The Solution: Demagnetization is a simple process that can be performed by a watchmaker using a demagnetizing tool. This tool generates a strong alternating magnetic field that neutralizes the magnetism in the watch's components. Many watchmakers offer this service for a nominal fee. You can also purchase a demagnetizer yourself, but it's crucial to use it carefully and follow instructions to avoid damaging the watch.

2. Impact or Physical Trauma:

* The Problem: A sudden impact, a hard knock, or even repeated vibrations can damage the delicate components within the movement. This can include bent balance pivots, dislodged parts, or damaged gears.

* The Symptoms: Time loss is a common symptom of impact damage, but it can also manifest as a watch that stops running altogether, or a rattling sound within the case.

* The Solution: This usually requires a professional watchmaker to diagnose the damage and repair or replace the affected parts. The extent of the repair will depend on the severity of the impact.

3. Lack of Lubrication:

* The Problem: The movement of a Submariner contains numerous tiny gears and pivots that require proper lubrication to function smoothly and accurately. Over time, the lubricants can dry out, thicken, or become contaminated, leading to increased friction and wear. This increased friction can cause the watch to run slower and lose time.

* The Symptoms: Gradual time loss is a common symptom of inadequate lubrication. The watch might initially keep relatively good time but slowly begin to lose more and more time over weeks or months.

* The Solution: A full service, including disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and reassembly of the movement, is necessary to address this issue. This should be performed by a qualified watchmaker with experience servicing Rolex movements.