Rolex Crowns Explained: Twinlock vs Triplock & More

What Is a Rolex Crown?

The Rolex crown is more than a branding emblem—it's a functional component that plays a vital role in winding the movement, setting the time, and sealing the case. Located on the side of the case, the crown works with a series of gaskets to ensure the watch remains airtight and waterproof. It's one of the most underappreciated parts of a Rolex, despite its high impact on performance and durability.

Twinlock vs. Triplock: What's the Difference?

Rolex employs two main types of crown systems: Twinlock and Triplock. These mechanisms refer to the number of sealed zones inside the crown, impacting the water resistance and intended use of the watch.

Twinlock System

Introduced in 1953, the Twinlock crown system uses two rubber gaskets—one inside the crown and another in the crown tube—to prevent water from entering the case. This is typically used on Rolex dress watches such as the Datejust, Day-Date, and Explorer. Water resistance generally tops out around 100 meters.

Triplock System

Released in the 1970s, the Triplock system is engineered for Rolex's professional diver watches like the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, and Deepsea. It features an extra gasket, bringing the total to four sealing points. This system can withstand depths up to 3,900 meters, depending on the model.

Crown Markings: Decoding the Dots and Dashes

Beneath the Rolex coronet on the crown, you’ll often find small symbols like dots or dashes. These crown markings are not decorative—they’re indicators of the watch’s material and crown type.

Twinlock Markings

• Stainless Steel or Yellow Gold: Single dash under the coronet

• White Gold: Two dots

• Platinum: Single dot

Triplock Markings

• Stainless Steel or Yellow Gold: Three small dots

• White Gold: One large dot flanked by two smaller ones

• Platinum: Two large dots with a smaller center dot

These markings help collectors and enthusiasts identify the material and water-resistance technology at a glance.

Do Platinum Rolex Watches Use Twinlock or Triplock?

It depends on the model. Platinum dress watches like the Day-Date may use the Twinlock system for elegance and slimness, while a more robust platinum sports model like the Yacht-Master could employ a Triplock crown for better water protection. The crown markings offer a quick reference: a single dot usually means Twinlock, while a dot pattern likely indicates Triplock.

Which Crowns Are Waterproof?

All Rolex crowns provide water resistance, but their depth ratings vary:

• Twinlock: Generally up to 100 meters (suitable for daily wear, rain, and shallow swimming)

• Triplock: From 300 meters to 3,900 meters (designed for diving and high-pressure environments)

Always screw down the crown completely before exposure to water to ensure maximum protection.

What Do "Double Seal" and "Triple Seal" Mean?

These phrases correspond to the Twinlock and Triplock systems:

• Double Seal: Two sealing zones (Twinlock)

• Triple Seal: Three sealing zones plus additional gaskets (Triplock)

This nomenclature reflects the technical complexity and waterproofing capabilities of the system.

Is One Crown Type More Valuable?

Not necessarily. While Triplock crowns are more technically advanced, value in the Rolex world is primarily driven by rarity, model, material, and condition—not just the crown type. That said, Triplock crowns do add a layer of rugged appeal, especially on tool watches.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Rolex crown markings gives collectors a hidden layer of knowledge about their watches. Whether you're into the elegance of Twinlock or the diving-grade engineering of Triplock, the crown serves as a small but mighty symbol of Rolex's dedication to durability, innovation, and precision craftsmanship.