Reliability of Rolex vs ETA vs other movements

[JohnyKwst]

Rolex watches are known to be very reliable. If this is true, what makes Rolex movements more reliable and dependable than other movements such as ETA 2824/2892? I have read about how Rolexes and some Seiko movements can sometimes go without service for 15-20 years. However, it seems that this is not the case with ETA movements (at least from multiple forum threads on the subject).

Reading articles on both ETA movements and Rolex caliber 3135, the Rolex movements do not use ball bearings for its rotor which is considered a weakness to its longevity -- one of the first things to go so to speak. What is the weakness or weaknesses of the ETA 2824/2892 that cause them to break down prior to the Rolex calibre if neither are serviced? What is the corresponding "first things to go" on a very high grade ETA movement?

Thank you in advance for any answers.

[J!m]

If you wear an ETA daily, the mainspring will probably be the first to fail.

If daily involves operating a jackhammer, your mileage may vary.

It is a machine, so any part can fail. When it does the machine may stop working, or just damage parts. I have a 1570 that had the rotor jewel/axle fail and the rotor stripped the plating off the plates and deposited it into the movement.

I feel the old 15xx series Rolex movements as well as the Seiko 7S26 movements are really great. That said the 2892-A2 is also great, as well as thinner , lighter and smaller diameter. The Omega co-axial is based on the 2892 and my (2500) ran about 10 years before the mainspring broke and it wasn't holding power. Otherwise it still functioned just fine.

I think ETA is looked down upon but you have to remember they are a company that has specialized in mechanical movements for decades. They have a good handle on it at this point. Sort of the "small block chevy" of the watch world. Yes you can kill them; however they can also run 20 years without service.

[SearChart]

ETA 2892 often gets trouble with the winding system, completely worn ratchet wheel, crown wheel, etc. A lot of gunk inside the movement. The ones I've seen that has this were always 5-10 years old, so pretty acceptable as a service interval.

Rolex makes great movements as we all know, but a worn rotor axle is not uncommon. Some just go on without service and are in good condition and I have seen 31xx come in not even two years old and the rotor axle was already pretty worn. It is a weak spot but could also have to do with the fact that Rolex uses HP1000 lubricant on the axle which is too thin IMO, I was taught to use MR4 which is a lot thicker and greasier, this might prevent quick wear of the axle.