Rolex and 904L Steel

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Most Swiss watch companies use 316L steel for their cases, which is five times more durable than standard steel. But Rolex is the only one to use 904L steel, which is corrosion resistant, virtually scratch proof, and far more expensive than 316L. 904L contains chromium, which when mixed with oxygen, forms a thin, virtually impregnable barrier on the surface of the case. This alloy combination is so hard that Rolex had to develop a special 250-ton press capable of stamping a watch case from a block of 904L.

Rolex-case

Categories: Rolex, Swiss Watch Tips & Trivia.

Comments (7)

  1. Todd Punderham

    Very fascinating. I love this information about the chemical, metal composition of watches. Please keep posting more.

  2. Thanks Todd. We will keep it under advisement!

  3. Ron

    I agree with the first commenter, knowing about the physical properties of the watch is particularly interesting! Discussing the price or quality is very good, but to see the watch from an almost scientific perspective is fascinating!

    I especially liked the part about the 250-ton press. Wow!

  4. Swiss Watch Boutique

    Thanks Ron! We will include more posts like this in the future.

  5. This rolex steel watch is looking really royal. Its dial is fantastic.

  6. Knowing the composition of watches gives us more information on the things that we buy and spend for. Thanks for sharing.

  7. Discussing the price or quality is very good, but to see the watch from an almost scientific perspective is fascinating!

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