Rolex ref 8171 Triple Calendar Moonphase watch big bubbleback 勞力士大泡泡背

This was my earlier blog written Jan 2012 when I found my dream watch Rolex ref 8171 Triple calendar moon phase. I have used my almost my entire bonus for this beauty.

Even though the ref 8171 is a triple calendar moon phase watch, I would classified it as part of the Rolex Big Bubbleback collection as it was also using the full bubbleback movement with additional parts. The Rolex 8171 is 38mm in diameter and is a huge watch during the early years but it was not a success then. Interesting enough, the steel versions of the Rolex 8171 is more collectable than the solid gold one as there are many gold after market cases made. In addition, there are also many nicely reconditioned dial as well.

There are both the Chronometer and Precision models for the 8171

Update : 3/1/2026

Recently, I have some debates with regards to 8171 in the Rolex Facebook forum where one second hand dealer insisted that Rolex 8171 in steel is Precision and In Gold will be Officially chronometer certified graded. However, this generalisation is true to a certain point, but there are exceptions in vintage Rolex. 

Whether it is chronometer or not is dependence on the nos of extra tests. So in addition to the printed text stating Officially Chronometer certified on the watch dial, most importantly, in the movement, there must be engraving on the test as per below photos :

Adjusted to 7 positions

Timed in 6 positions

However, it is sad that there are people who refused to accept facts and merely insisted on their own beliefs… 

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Rolex 8171

I have started a new year with a 8171. Even though this 8171 has an aged dial, it has a very nice original look from the 1950s,,, 

I have spent months dreaming of the 8171 and finally...

Friday, April 27, 2012

Rolex 8171 Movements comparison ( pearl without the oyster)

For the Rolex 8171, the general perception is that the Steel 8171 should be a Precision watch while the gold or half gold Rolex 8171 should be with "Officially certified chronometer".

However, from my recent find, I realized that it all depends on the movements. My steel Rolex 8171 movement has engraved 17 Jewels Rolex Geneva and was timed to 7 positions while the movement of some version has the engraved Precision.

I hope I should to find more pictures to see the differences... Cheers