Behind the innovations of the Land-Dweller, there is more than meets the eye. Spotlight on some of the details that reflect the remarkable scope of the technological achievements.
DYNAPULSE LUBRICATION IN NANOLITRES
The Dynapulse escapement in calibre 7135 is lubricated and assembled differently from the Swiss lever escapements in other Rolex movements. Because of the way this escapement functions, oil rather than grease is used for lubrication. Applied using a curved precision needle, the oil is dispensed on a scale of nanolitres. This delicate and complex operation called for the design of a special assembly process. The Dynapulse escapement is built and lubricated on an external support before it is inserted in the movement – a completely novel approach for the manufacture.
DYNAPULSE SHAPES AND STRUCTURE
A number of patent applications concern the dimensions and shape of the components of the Dynapulse escapement. One of them concerns the design of the silicon distribution wheels, which are particular in that they have both teeth and blades on the same plane. The distribution wheels have a dual function: on one hand, they mesh with each other, and on the other, their teeth first position and then pilot the impulse rocker. Intensive research into the morphology of each component of the Dynapulse escapement was carried out to ensure the escapement would function reliably. Still further, all the silicon components are cut out, thereby reducing their inertia and, in turn, the amount of energy required to engage them.
BALANCE STAFF A SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGE
After being machined, the balance staff – made from a white ceramic notable for its extreme strength – is polished to nanometric scale. This polishing is carried out to prevent any fissures or damage in the event of impact, while creating a perfectly smooth surface finish. Shaping the staff by means of a femtosecond laser also allows the creation of optimal geometry for the pivots – the points at each end of the staff – thus enhancing their shock resistance.
OPTIMIZED PARAFLEX MASTERING SHOCKS
Fitting a ceramic balance staff in the oscillator involved optimization of the Paraflex shock absorber. The internal structure of the improved version is known as a ‘double cone’ which gives it great mobility. At the heart of this innovative construction, the hole jewel is manufactured via a new patented process, combining leading-edge technology and traditional know-how. The two optimized Paraflex shock absorbers – one at each end of the staff, at the pivots – include an enhanced leaf spring that ensures optimal repositioning of the staff after a shock. Thanks to the Paraflex shock absorbers, the balance staff can oscillate regularly in any position.
FREQUENCY OF 5 HZ GLIDING SMOOTHLY
On the Land-Dweller, the seconds hand moves particularly smoothly because of the high frequency of calibre 7135. Thanks to the movement beating at 5 Hz – 36,000 beats per hour or 600 per minute – the seconds hand moves at a speed of 10 jumps per second. At such a rate, it is able to measure time to one tenth of a second and display half-seconds, which are pad-printed on the minute track on the angled flange of the dial.
ATTACHMENT SYSTEM ROBUSTNESS ON A SMALL SCALE
Robust and entirely concealed, the bracelet attachment system, housed between the middle case lugs, is the subject of a patent application. This mechanism, enabling articulation of the bracelet, includes a spring bar less than one centimetre long, that clicks at each end into a hole inside the lugs. To prevent it from pivoting and to optimize its longevity, the bar is held in place by a screw within the bracelet attachment link. It is also enclosed within ceramic inserts – at the first articulated link – which help prevent premature wear.
CHAMFERED BRACELET LINE OF LIGHT
One of the Land Dweller’s aesthetic signatures is the polished chamfers along its bracelet edges, flowing as perfectly uninterrupted lines from the bevelled edges of the middle case. This continuity generates an elegant ribbon of light. To achieve this visual effect, a special manufacturing method was developed to execute the chamfers on the bracelet’s outer links, an operation that requires extreme precision.
TECHNICAL SATIN FINISH STYLISH STRIATION
The technical satin finish, characterized by its pronounced linear grain and matt lustre, has been employed for the first time on Oystersteel, 18 ct Everose gold and 950 platinum. The subtle alternation between this finish on the top of the case and outer bracelet links, and the polished surfaces of the chamfered edges and bracelet centre links, contributes to the Land-Dweller’s contemporary character.
CHROMALIGHT HOUR MARKERS RAYS OF LIGHT
The atypical design of the Land-Dweller’s index hour markers – recognizable by their cut ends – was realized by developing a variant of the luminescent material typically used for the components of Chromalight display. To produce this variant, luminescent ceramic powder is mixed with a thermosetting polymer, i.e. one that hardens when heated. Particular strength is required to allow machining of the hour markers and to cut the luminescent material perfectly at the ends.
Latest News
- Ceramic balance staff ! Really a great watchmaking improvement for one of the most sensible component !
- Fascinating. I had no idea the Parachrom hairspring was made from a niobium-zirconium to achieve that specific blue. Amazing how much precision and innovation goes into something so small and rarely seen. 👏
- Worthy to note Rolex in Boston has the BEST staff. While walking by the Newbury locale once, the staff waved to me in such a loving manner, my sometimes "black heart" was moved. I'm uncertain if he knew I was a brand enthusiast Avi & Co. This in juxtaposition to some brands that act like you owe them something when you visit their in person locations Brooks Brothers Newbury St. 👹
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