Disappointing design in a watch that expensive? You betcha!
Andrew notes,
"Rolex still does not use ball bearings (to support the winding weight) even in its top calibers. Instead, there is a plain sleeve bearing, and proper oiling is critical. When the lubricant evaporates or migrates, the metal axle experiences wear against the jewel. In the picture above, you can notice a rut left by the jewel. If Rolex had designed an automatic device based on ball bearings (like in most modern automatic devices) - the watch would be more reliable."I expect an approach like this in a cheap calibre like my Lemania 5100 based Sinn 157. Every time I see a Rolex apart or reviewed like this, I am left unimpressed. Clearly you need to stay right on the recommended service schedule and there is little margin for error. It's interesting to note that as technology is implemented to improve the escapement service interval, (e.g. co-axial, or coatings) other areas of the watch potentially need to be upgraded to cope. Omega are now talking about ten years between service, and clearly need and have a superior design of winder to Rolex.