What is the Rolex Cyclops Lens, and what's so special about it? Why did Rolex introduce the Cyclops Lens? What is the difference between the Plexiglas Crystal Cyclops Lens and the Sapphire Crystal Cyclops Lens?
How much do You know about the Rolex Cyclops Lens?
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What is the Rolex Cyclops Lens?
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Why did Rolex introduce the Cyclops Lens?
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Why is it called Cyclops Lens?
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The evolution of the Rolex Cyclops Lens
What is the Rolex Cyclops Lens?
The Rolex Cyclops Lens is an enhancement to the date window. It enhances the date aperture and magnifies the Rolex date display by 2.5 times.
The Rolex Datejust model introduced in 1953 was the first watch to have the Cyclops Lens.
Rolex extended the Cyclops Lens to all Oyster models with a date display. The Rolex Sea-Dweller and the Deepsea models were the only exceptions for technical reasons related to the shape and thickness of the crystal. A Cyclops lens on a thicker crystal would magnify too much because the top of the lens is farther away from the date wheel than on standard Rolex Sapphire Crystals.
Why did Rolex introduce the Cyclops Lens?
Betty Wilsdorf-Mettler had difficulties reading the date on her watch. She wanted her husband, Hans Wilsdorf, to find ways for her.
Rolex introduced an enhancement to the date window in 1953. Rolex placed a Cyclops Lens on the watch crystal to magnify the date. The watch crystal with the specially shaped magnifying lens is a Rolex exclusivity protected in Switzerland and abroad.
Why is it called Cyclops Lens?
Rolex named the magnifying lens Cyclops Lens. The Cyclops is a giant one-eyed creature in Greek mythology. You can only spot a Cyclops Lens on every Rolex Crystal.
The evolution of the Rolex Cyclops Lens
The Rolex Cyclops Lens evolved through the years. Rolex moulded and integral the Cyclops Lens to the Plexiglas Crystal as one piece. The Cyclops Lens on the Sapphire Crystal is a separate sapphire glued to the crystal. Rolex began adding anti-reflective coating on Cyclops lenses to avoid glare for easier reading.
