OK, my stupid question for today... Movement size related.

[TheVTCGuy]

I just read that the new Explorer, at 36 MM, will have the 3230 movement, the same one that is in the 41MM Submariner. The new EX II had the 3285, (42MM) which is also in the 40MM GMT.

Like... How do they do that? How big are the movements? If the 3230 can fit in a 36MM watch, then... do they install bumpers to install it in a 41MM model?

[SearChart]

Just like the previous generation of movements (31××) fit into everything from 34mm (OP) to 44mm (DSSD), the 32×× will also fit a wide arrangement of cases, now no longer in the 34mm but anything from 36mm to 44mm can house the 32××.

Usually the hole in which the movement sits is about the same size, no matter if the watch is a 36mm or a 44mm, in some cases like the 39mm OP or the Explorer II a larger main plate and/or calender mechanism cover is used to house a larger dial.

In a few watches Rolex uses an enlargement ring to fill in empty space in the case, this is currently in use in the 37mm YM, 34mm & 31mm OP. These use the 2236 movement.

[Sothy]

Thanks! I was wondering how they got the date wheel to look like it’s in the right spot for such a wide range of dials.

Originally Posted by SearChart

Just like the previous generation of movements (31××) fit into everything from 34mm (OP) to 44mm (DSSD), the 32×× will also fit a wide arrangement of cases, now no longer in the 34mm but anything from 36mm to 44mm can house the 32××.

Usually the hole in which the movement sits is about the same size, no matter if the watch is a 36mm or a 44mm, in some cases like the 39mm OP or the Explorer II a larger main plate and/or calender mechanism cover is used to house a larger dial.

In a few watches Rolex uses an enlargement ring to fill in empty space in the case, this is currently in use in the 37mm YM, 34mm & 31mm OP. These use the 2236 movement.