2 Questions.....

[3sheets86]

How much tweaking does a model get before Rolex alter the reference? Would they just update the movement and keep the same reference number or would that warrant a model number change?


Secondly, what's the average lifespan of a Rolex model using the same reference number?

[kauffee]

If you're asking about modern 6-digit Rolex, I can't think of an example of a significant change or update without changing reference number. A change in movement will definitely change the reference number, as witnessed by the 31XX movements switching over to the 32XX movements. Though these are usually accompanied by some cosmetic changes, too. (e.g. new DSSDs, and TT DJ36)

Now I've read that Rolex might make slight tweaks to the movements without changing the reference number of the movement or the watch. Apparently the 4130 Daytona movement had some slight upgrades over the years.

5-digit and earlier is a different ballgame.

[tyler1980]

the biggest change w/o a model number change i can think of is the explorer. The 3/6/9 changed and the hands changed. IMO it totally changed the look of the watch so to me it was not minor at all.

Movement changes are automatic reference number changes i assume (different movement and not tweaks to existing ones).