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difference between the 1185 and 33xx

In Response To: However, the c.33xx IS NOT based on the FP c.1185� ()

Hi Chuck

There are big differences between the 1185 and 33xx movements. It is jean michel who told me as well as other members that the movement of the 33xx is a special movement made by Frederic Piguet known as the 1285 edition speciale de luxe. You can see that on jean michel's website speedmaster-mission.net chapter history. I was also told that by Marco Richon as well as Fabrice Bonjoux (Omega Director of Marketing of France) so I am sure of my sources.
There are difference between a 1185 and a 33xx:
-1185 has a savonnete movement form and the 33xx a lepine one
-1185 has 37 jewels and 33xxx 33 jewels
-33xx has a keyless balance the 1185 hasn't
-33xx has a bidirectional winding system the 1185 hasn't
-diameter and height of both movements are different
I have seen some watch magazines saying that the 33xx is a piguet 1185 but they got it all wrong because they didn't have access to the correct information.
The rolex 4130 despite not being in production since 1969 was judged by many watchmakers as to be the most robust in terms of construction as well as far more easier to service than any el primero.
Always glad, that you add some spice to our watch debates Chuck.

best regards

georges