Rolex Twinlock vs. Triplock: What's the difference?

The Rolex Twinlock and Triplock systems are two of the most robust screw-down crown technologies in watchmaking, but they are engineered for different levels of water resistance. The Twinlock system uses two sealed zones to guarantee water resistance to at least 100 meters, making it ideal for most of Rolex’s classic and dress models. The Triplock system adds a third seal, providing superior protection for the brand’s professional and dive watches like the Submariner and Sea-Dweller, which are rated for much greater depths.

Here’s everything you need to know about these two crown systems to choose the right Rolex for your lifestyle.

Rolex Twinlock Crown

The Twinlock system is Rolex's original patented waterproof crown, a fundamental component of the Oyster case that provides excellent protection for daily wear and recreational water activities. It establishes its waterproofness through two O-ring gaskets: one is located within the tube of the case, and the second is inside the winding crown itself. This dual-barrier system ensures the watch remains sealed against water, dust, and pressure when the crown is screwed down.

• What it is: A screw-down crown with two separate sealed zones to ensure water resistance. Visually identified by a simple line or two dots below the Rolex logo on the crown.
• Key features: Double gasket system, water resistant to at least 100 meters (330 feet), robust and easy to operate.
• Found On: Models designed for versatility and elegance, including the Datejust, Day-Date, Oyster Perpetual, and Explorer.
• Materials/Construction: Forged from the same high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials as the watch case, such as Oystersteel or precious metals.
• Pros: Provides more than sufficient water resistance for swimming and daily wear, has a sleeker and less prominent profile, is featured on a wider range of classic Rolex models.
• Cons: Offers less water resistance than the Triplock system, not intended for professional saturation diving.

This system is perfect for those who wear their Rolex for business, daily life, and recreational swimming but do not require deep-sea diving capabilities.

Explore Rolex models: rolex.com/watches

Rolex Triplock Crown

The Triplock system is Rolex's enhanced waterproof crown, engineered specifically for its professional dive watches and other models built for extreme conditions. It incorporates three sealed zones for maximum protection. Unlike the Twinlock, the third, visible O-ring gasket is located on the exterior of the case tube, with two more gaskets working inside the crown and tube. This triple-barrier system is a critical feature for watches like the Submariner and Deepsea, which must withstand immense water pressure.

• What it is: An advanced screw-down crown with three distinct sealing zones for superior water resistance. It is identified by three dots below the Rolex emblem on the crown.
• Key features: Triple O-ring gasket system, provides water resistance from 300 meters (1,000 feet) to an extreme 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) on the Deepsea model.
• Found On: Professional models built for harsh environments, such as the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, GMT-Master II, Daytona, and Yacht-Master.
• Materials/Construction: Made from corrosion-resistant Oystersteel or precious metals, built with a slightly larger and more robust profile to handle extreme pressures.
• Pros: Offers industry-leading water resistance suitable for professional deep-sea diving, gives ultimate peace of mind against water ingress, rugged construction designed for the toughest conditions.
• Cons: The crown is larger and more pronounced, which can feel bulkier on the wrist. Its capabilities are overkill for a non-diver.

This is the essential choice for professional divers, tool watch enthusiasts, and anyone who wants the highest level of water protection Rolex offers.

Explore Rolex models: rolex.com/watches

Rolex Twinlock vs. Triplock Comparison

Water Resistance & Functionality

The functional difference between Twinlock and Triplock is straightforward: water resistance. The Twinlock system, with its two seals, reliably secures watches to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). This is more than adequate for everyday hazards like rain, showering, swimming, and snorkeling. You can confidently take a Datejust into the pool on holiday.

The Triplock system is built for a much greater purpose. Its three seals provide the deep-level security required for scuba diving and professional saturation diving. It equips a Rolex Submariner to descend to 300 meters (1,000 feet) and allows the ultra-robust Deepsea to safely reach 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). A Triplock system ensures the watch remains hermetically sealed against pressures that would compromise lesser designs.

Design & Aesthetics

There is a visible difference between the two systems. The Twinlock crown is generally smaller and more streamlined, contributing to the elegant and classic profile of watches like the Datejust and Oyster Perpetual. It allows for a less obtrusive case design suitable for wearing under a shirt cuff.

Conversely, the Triplock crown is physically larger and more prominent, enhancing the tool-watch aesthetic of the models it equips. It's designed to be easily gripped and operated, even with gloved hands. The larger size reinforces the watch’s intended purpose as a serious piece of equipment rather than just a luxury accessory.

Watch Models & Availability

Your choice between a Twinlock and Triplock system is ultimately determined by the watch model you prefer, as they are not interchangeable options. The Twinlock crown is standard on Rolex's more classic and versatile lines, representing a balance of elegance and durability.

The Triplock system is exclusive to Rolex's Professional Oyster Perpetual models. If you are interested in a purpose-built Rolex for diving, racing, or yachting - like the Daytona or Sea-Dweller - it will come standard with a Triplock crown, as its function is integral to the watch’s identity and capability.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both sealing systems demonstrate Rolex's exceptional engineering, but your choice will be guided by the watch model that best suits your needs.

Choose a Rolex with a Twinlock crown if:

• You want a versatile, classic Rolex for everyday wear that can handle rain, swimming, and vacations.
• You prefer a more elegant and streamlined watch profile with a smaller winding crown.
• Your ideal models are among the Datejust, Day-Date, Oyster Perpetual, or Explorer collections.
• You don't engage in scuba diving or other deep-sea activities.

Choose a Rolex with a Triplock crown if:

• You are a serious recreational or professional diver who requires maximum water resistance.
• You prefer the larger, more robust aesthetic of a professional tool watch.
• You want the utmost security and peace of mind against water damage under any condition.
• You are looking to purchase a model from the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, GMT-Master II, or Daytona lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Rolex Twinlock and Triplock?

The primary difference is the number of sealing zones. The Twinlock system uses two O-ring gaskets for water resistance to at least 100 meters, while the Triplock system uses three gaskets for superior water resistance starting at 300 meters and going much deeper on professional dive models.

How can I tell if my Rolex has a Twinlock or Triplock crown?

You can identify the system by looking at the winding crown. A Twinlock crown has a line or two dots beneath the Rolex logo. A Triplock crown has three dots beneath the logo.

Is Triplock better than Twinlock?

Triplock is not inherently "better," but rather "more specialized" for extreme water pressure. For professional diving, it is the superior choice. However, for everyday wear and recreational swimming, a Twinlock system provides complete and reliable protection.

Can I go swimming with a Rolex Twinlock crown?

Absolutely. Watches equipped with a Twinlock crown are guaranteed waterproof to at least 100 meters (330 feet), which is more than sufficient for swimming, snorkeling, and other surface water sports. Just ensure the crown is fully screwed down against the case.

Which Rolex models have a Triplock crown?

The Triplock crown is featured on Rolex's professional models, including the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, GMT-Master II, Daytona, and Yacht-Master.

Which models have a Twinlock crown?

The Twinlock crown is standard on classic and versatile models such as the Datejust, Day-Date, Oyster Perpetual, Explorer, Air-King, and Sky-Dweller.

Why does the Datejust have a Twinlock crown while the Submariner has a Triplock?

It comes down to their intended purpose. The Datejust is a classic, everyday watch that balances elegance with robustness. The Submariner is a purpose-built diver's watch, requiring the enhanced water resistance that the Triplock system provides for deep-sea exploration.

Do the crown gaskets need to be serviced?

Yes. The rubber O-ring gaskets inside any crown system can wear down over time. Rolex recommends regular servicing, during which they will inspect and replace gaskets as needed to maintain the watch's guaranteed water resistance.