The seemingly simple inscription "T. Swiss Made T" on the dial of many vintage Rolex watches, particularly the iconic Day-Date, holds a fascinating history, revealing a significant shift in the brand's manufacturing practices and a fascinating chapter in the story of horological technology. This seemingly minor detail speaks volumes about the evolution of watchmaking, safety regulations, and the enduring legacy of Rolex itself. This article delves into the significance of the "T. Swiss Made T" marking, its relation to the use of radioactive materials in early Rolex dials, and how it connects to the broader lineage of Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches, including models like the Datejust 8570F, the Superlative chronometer-certified pieces, and other variations within the Oyster Perpetual family.
Up until approximately 1960, Rolex, like many other Swiss watchmakers, used the simple inscription "SWISS" on their dials. This straightforward marking indicated the country of origin. However, the early to mid-20th century saw the widespread use of radium in luminous paint for watch hands and hour markers. Radium, while providing a strong and long-lasting glow, is a highly radioactive element, posing significant health risks to those exposed to it over extended periods. Watchmakers, including Rolex, were unaware of the full extent of these dangers for many years. The application and handling of radium paint led to numerous cases of radiation sickness among watch dial painters, a tragic consequence of the era's limited understanding of radiation's harmful effects.
The shift to "T. Swiss Made T" around 1960 marks a turning point in Rolex's approach to dial production and a response to growing concerns about radiation safety. The "T"s flanking "Swiss Made" signify a transition to safer, less radioactive luminous materials. The "T" indicates that the watch complies with specific regulations regarding the amount of radioactive material used in its luminescence. These regulations limited the amount of radioactive material, specifically less than 277 MBq (7.5 mCi), representing a considerable decrease compared to the levels used in earlier watches. The additional marking "Swiss This change is particularly relevant when examining the evolution of specific Rolex models, such as the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 8570F. This reference, produced during the transition period, might exhibit either the "SWISS" or "T. Swiss Made T" marking, depending on its exact production date. Examining the dial inscription provides a clue to the watch's age and manufacturing techniques. Similarly, the "T. Swiss Made T" marking can be found on other Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust models, as well as other variations within the Oyster Perpetual family, highlighting the widespread adoption of this new safety standard across Rolex's production lines. current url：https://nytwss.cx244.com/all/rolex-oyster-perpetual-day-date-t-swiss-made-t-90642