Whether you are already an expert or you are still exploring the world of watch collecting, you most likely have a must-have Rolex in mind. One of the most famous and acclaimed luxury watch brands, the company offers a variety of models, ranging from dive watches and dress watches to the most complex ones. Rolex is so well-recognized that it has become the ultimate symbol for luxury timepieces.

The random serial number consists of 8 digits, which is a combination of numbers and letters. Prior to this, the serial number had 6 six digits and a letter at the beginning of the serial number. This letter could be used to get an idea of when the watch was made. Do however have in mind that the letter refers to the time when Rolex stamped the. Rolex Serial Numbers: Find Your Rolex Production Date! One of the many special aspects of a Rolex watch is the unique, five to eight-digit serial number on each timepiece. Performing a Rolex serial number lookup makes it easy to discover Rolex watch values, as you can determine the exact production date.

Originating from Switzerland, the land where horology significantly thrives, Rolex takes supreme craftsmanship and creativity seriously, which is why they remain celebrated among its other competitors in its more than 116 years in the industry. However, the company’s massive popularity also has its own downsides. Due to the brand’s extreme prominence, it is no surprise that its wide range of trusted and pristine products are often counterfeited, leading to the spread and abundance of many fake Rolex watches in secondhand markets, city streets, or typical online shopping websites.

From collections like the Rolex Submariner, Rolex Datejust, Rolex Day-Date and even Rolex Oyster Perpetual, most offerings by the brand are susceptible to this kind of situation. To combat this, the company continuously seeks ways to help loyal consumers and potential wearers alike to know whether they are buying the right and authentic timepieces, especially if the models they want to own are already considered vintage.

One useful way to determine the authenticity of a piece from the company is to look at the Rolex serial number. Although not extremely reliable and often hidden from the naked eye, it is still considered a pretty easy way especially if you don’t have the time to bring your watch to an expert or an authorized dealer. Aside from this, the unique indicator also gives you an idea of what year a specific Rolex watch was created, as well as its estimated value in the current market.

For aficionados, finding out the location of the Rolex serial number is an easy thing to do. Not to mention, a lot of them also already know its function, considering the research they allocate in every watch they choose to invest in. Yet those who are unacquainted or relatively new to the field will probably face difficulties, especially that the topic in question is quite extensive and hard to comprehend if you are not quite familiar with the historic background of the brand. This article will focus on dissecting what Rolex serial numbers are all about, particularly their importance and role in ruling out fake watches from those original ones. Moreover, we will also find out where you can find these numbers and how the brand continues to modify them to avoid unauthorized copies from lurking around the vast watchmaking realm.

All About Rolex Serial Numbers

As part of Rolex’s meticulous and well-planned production process, every watch that comes out from the main Manufacture is engraved with a Rolex serial number. Aside from the fact that they are completely unique to each watch, the numbers also do an incredible job in giving them easier classification and distinction.

Complex as they may seem, these sets of numbers help you determine the estimated production year of a certain watch. This is also one of the reasons why they are extremely useful when buying pieces from the brand, especially if they are vintage or pre-loved Rolex. Since the approximate age of a timepiece is vital when it comes to determining its value, Rolex serial numbers could also give you an idea of what year your Rolex watch was created, especially if you are treating most of your pieces as an investment. By using these numbers as your guide, you will be able to sell your pieces in the future smoothly and without any difficulties.

To have a deeper understanding of why Rolex serial numbers are important and why they serve as a helpful guide into buying your own piece, you must know that they are generally divided into three major divisions, each with distinct formats, depending on the years the watches were produced. Knowing and digesting all of these will also aid you in choosing which piece suits your preferences and your taste, whether you like something that increases its value over time or you are inclined to watches that came from a specific era.

Rolex Sequential Serial Numbers

Rolex started placing serial numbers on their products around the 1920s. These codes were imprinted in a 5-digit format and in a sequential manner, with the starting point at exactly 00,001. This system continued up to 1954 until the digits reach 999,999.

Being a company that prioritizes innovation above all, Rolex wanted to incorporate tweaks in their numbering structure. They began setting the serial digits into a different arrangement during the time when they are in the middle of creating their millionth timepiece. Instead of continuing with the 7-digit format, the company chose to begin at 100,000. Whether it was produced by accident or not is not clear, given how Rolex never released an official record for their serial numbers. This sudden reboot is the main reason why there are still models from the early 1960s lurking around today that sport the same identifier as those from the 1950s. Due to the visible and noticeable inconsistency, many enthusiasts often get confused regarding the actual production year of their watches that came from the aforementioned period.

Showing dedication for their loyal clientele, Rolex somehow managed to address the issue with the inclusion of date codes inside the watches’ caseback. Although hidden and can only be seen once you remove the hard exterior, the modified numbers significantly helped in differentiating pre-1954 timepieces from those that came out after the same year.

Eventually, the company began adopting the 7-digit scheme from 1964 onwards. This lasted until 1987 until Rolex decided to modify the serial number system again. Sensing that watch identifiers with 8 numbers can be quite confusing to a lot of people especially those who are new to the industry, the brand decided to go for a format that is easier to recall, remember and understand.

Rolex Serial Numbers with Alphabet Letters

In 1987, Rolex finally publicized its number scheme, specifically after it reached the 9,999,999 point. Instead of going back to square one, the brand decided to just add one letter prior to the six-digit number. However, this does not necessarily mean that the letters also started with “A.” Sticking to its identity, Rolex used the letter “R” first and eventually proceeded with “L,” “E,” and “X.” Other letters were also used in the following years; however, there wasn’t any complete list available at the moment. We can only hope for Rolex to release a compilation in the near future.

Random Rolex Serial Numbers

Modern times also brought lots of major advancements to the company. Rolex decided to issue random serial numbers in late 2009, which is comprised of exactly 8 characters in a mixture of both numbers and letters. The brand said that they utilized this innovative method in order to combat the spread of many fake watches.

A lot of people, especially watch lovers, also believed that it was adapted in order to keep the number of units being produced by the brand confidentially, to preserve the original quality of timepieces, and to prevent forgers from copying the blueprint of the well-crafted Rolex products. Meanwhile, others speculated that this modern system gives less privilege to secondhand Rolex sellers from taking advantage of collectors, as well as the current market value of watches.

Since the serial numbers printed in all post-2009 Rolex watches do not have a prefixed year indicator, which is usually produced in a uniform manner, it has become harder for everyone to determine their exact manufacturing years. The only reliable option you have right now is to bring the actual pieces to an authorized dealer. However, you could still get a vague idea by looking at the warranty card. While it only provides the date when the warranty was issued, you will still be able to narrow down the possible choices and answers.

Where Can You Find Your Rolex Serial Number?

One of the simplest ways to search for the serial number of the Rolex watch in your possession is to look at the official sales receipt, warranty card, or any proof of purchase. Since these documents usually detail all the inclusions of the watch from the parts down to the price, you can expect that it will appear somewhere in the papers. With this alone, you can already start searching for the production date and value of your timepiece. However, caution must still be exercised given that many people can easily forge papers. You must still check whether the numbers on the papers match the ones that are found in the watch itself.

If you do not have access to the documents anymore, you can opt to look at the watch itself, specifically its parts. Older models have serial numbers placed at their polished cases, just between the lugs. Considered handy and convenient, the characters are adjacent to the 6 o’clock position for you to locate them easily, without having the need to remove the caseback entirely. Instead, you can just set aside the bracelet in order to have a full and clearer view of the codes. While the process can be bothersome for many, given how it provides additional risks of damage not only to the watches’ crystal but also the case, lugs, and bracelet, you can still have a smooth experience by bringing them to experts and professionals, who can take out parts without any difficulties at all.

Making them more accessible yet at the same time reserved due to their unconventional and unusual placement, the serial numbers with four to eight characters began appearing on the rehaut in 2005, together with the “ROLEX ROLEX ROLEX” text, while still gracing the 6 o’clock mark. A rehaut is known as the metal component inside the face of the watch that separates the dial and the crystal. You may or may not see it depending on the condition of your eyesight. Using a lamp or a pair of eyeglasses that fit your current eye grade are the best ways to read them without needing a jeweller’s assistance.

In 2008, the company decided to cease the production of watches with serial numbers on the case exterior and entirely engraved codes on the inner bezel alone, since it contributes significantly to the welfare of the company.

Checking the serial number of your Rolex watch can be quite tricky at first especially if you do not have prior knowledge or you did not conduct research. But once you get a hang of it, you will surely have no problems in the future when you decide to add more watches to your collection.

Rolex Serial Numbers: Are they reliable?

Before resorting to several charts that could help you check the value, authenticity, and manufacturing year of your timekeeper, it is important for you to know that Rolex did not officially release details regarding their serial number setup. They were only collated by seasoned collectors and other experts and members of the vast watch realm alike for the purpose of giving the general public an idea of what to expect when they finally gave in to buying a Rolex timepiece. With that being said, if you want to determine the accurate production year of your watch, it is still best to bring it to official Rolex stores as curated lists lurking online can only provide approximate dates and may not be entirely consistent at all.

Additionally, as emphasized earlier, the introduction of modern serial numbers made it more impossible for casual wearers to identify the production year of a watch from Rolex. This is where the importance of genuine documents, particularly a warranty card comes in, as they are the only proof of when a watch was assembled.

How to Check the Year your Rolex was Manufactured Using the Rolex Serial Number

Now that you have finally discovered the function of Rolex serial numbers and how you can locate them, below is a chart you can refer to from time to time to check the estimated age of a watch, especially if you have a plan on collecting both new and vintage models. This is useful to those of you who take the time to research the brand and its timepieces before actually making a decision. Keep in mind that serial numbers on the actual piece and on the verified papers must match. Otherwise, this will affect you greatly if you finally decide to let others take care of your watch. While it may not be entirely factual, this list is still very handy, considering that it already summarizes the important bits you should know before actually purchasing a Rolex watch.

Production Year

Rolex Serial Number

2010-PresentRandom2010G or Random + Any Code2009V + Any Code2008V or M + Any Code2007M or Z + Any Code2006D or Z + Any Code2005F or D + Any Code2003–2004F + Any Code2002Y or F + Any Code2001K or Y + Any Code2000P + Any Code1999A + Any Code1997-1998U or T + Any CodeSummer 1995–1996W or T + Any Code1995 (Spring)W + Any Code1993–1994S + Any Code1992C or X + Any Code1991N, E or X + Any Code1990E or L + Any Code1989L + Any Code1987–1988R + Any Code19869,290,000–9,999,99919858,814,000–9,289,99919848,338,000–8,813,99919837,862,000–8,337,99919827,338,000–7,861,99919816,910,000–7,337,99919806,434,000–6,909,99919795,958,000–6,433,99919785,958,000–6,433,99919775,006,000–5,481,99919764,539,000–5,005,99919754,267,100–4,538,99919744,004,200–4,267,09919733,741,300–4,004,19919723,478,400–3,741,29919713,215,500–3,478,39919702,952,600–3,215,49919692,689,700–2,952,59919682,426,800–2,689,69919672,163,900–2,426,80019661,871,000–2,163,89919651,792,000–1,870,99919641,714,000–1,791,99919631,636,000–1,713,99919621,558,000–1,635,99919611,480,000–1,557,99919601,402,000–1,479,99919591,100,00–1,401,9991957-1958600,000–1,099,9991956400,000–599,9991955200,000–399,9991954100,000–200,0001953950,000–999,9991952803,800–949,9991951738,700–803,7991950673,600–738,6991949608,500–673,5991948545,400–608,4991947478,300–545,3991946413,200–478,2991945348,100–413,1991944283,000–348,0991943253,400–282,9991942223,800–253,3991941194,200–223,7991940164,600–194,1991939135,000–164,5991938117,000–134,999193799,000–116,999193681,000–98,999193563,000–80,999193445,000–62,9991932–193342,680–44,999193140,250–42,679193037,820–40,249192935,390–37,819192832,960–35,389192730,430–32,959192628,000 – 30,429192525,000 – 27,999

Can Rolex Serial Numbers Help in Authenticating your Rolex Watch?

Technically speaking, knowing the significance of Rolex serial numbers can already give you a hint of whether or not a certain piece is genuine and came directly from the brand’s Swiss factory. You can use this knowledge as a guide as you navigate your way through the world of Rolex watches.

With the emergence of the Internet and other advanced technologies, it has become easier to check the validity of serial numbers online. Using one click, you can already be notified of the major red flags if there are any, especially if you are thinking of buying online, specifically from secondhand and other trusted sites. If in any case a lot of results came out or something negative appears when you enter a certain serial number on a search platform, you should definitely watch out more as it may raise some issues in the future. You should keep in mind that counterfeit Rolex watches often carry the same serial numbers, so if a lot of models from the brand, ranging from the Rolex Submariner, Rolex Day-Date, or Rolex Daytona appear when you search for a specific set of codes, they are most likely watches produced by illegal manufacturers. However, if none shows up, then you are already good to go, considering the brand does not publicize official serial number lists for privacy and security purposes.

Keep in mind that even fake manufacturers can now copy the arrangement of the serial numbers and the way they are placed on cases or inner bezels in order to trick the unacquainted. However, the majority of them are not on par with those you can see on original ones since they are usually stamped using an acid-based technology rather than a laser one. Not to mention, serial numbers on fake watches are usually unpolished, with edges looking cluttered and distracting. While sporting a serial number is already an indicator as to whether a Rolex watch directly hails from the Manufacture, it still does not guarantee legitimacy. It is still recommended to carefully inspect the serial number it came with or better yet let an authorized Rolex personnel examine the watch.

A Quick Look at the Start of Rolex

Rolex’s roots can be traced back to 1905, when Hans Wilsdorf, a watchmaker of German descent, decided to go to London, England to make a name in the watch manufacturing industry. He then established a small company in the same country in collaboration with his brother-in-law Alfred Davis, with aims to distribute dependable and opulent wrist-worn timepieces that could last for years — perhaps even decades — to come.

To come up with products that do not only excel in designs but also performance, both Wilsdorf and Davis focused on importing Swiss-made movements made by Hermann Aegler, the son of Jean Aegler who was the mastermind behind the Bienne-based watch movement maker, Aegler SA. These mechanisms were eventually placed inside the firm and gorgeous cases made by various manufacturing companies including the Birmingham-grown firm, Dennison. Signaling a great success ahead, these incredible watches produced by the Wilsdorf-Davis tandem became a hit among jewellers from different areas, who all had an equal opportunity to stamp their own name or their firm name on the precious dials.

Realizing that his new venture has so much potential and room for improvements, Wilsdorf decided to take things up a notch by applying a trademark for the name “Rolex”. This eventually became the official designation of the brothers’ business, which brought them the fame and recognition they deserved. Moreover, the creation of the new brand title also led to the manufacturing house’s expansion.

Creating the Iconic Name

The story behind the name “Rolex” is quite interesting in all ways, no matter how many times it has been discussed on several forums and blogs alike. Being an individual who did not want to settle for the usual, Wilsdorf craved for a term that is short but effortlessly impactful and remarkable. He wanted to come up with a name that bears a sense of distinction and grace before actually appealing for rights. After several attempts at combining alphabet letters into different unique words, Wilsdorf suddenly had a brilliant idea, while casually exploring Cheapside Street on a horse-powered omnibus, which led to the birth of the title “Rolex”. This particular event became the starting point for Rolex’s admirable legacy and heritage.

Major Milestones After Establishment

There are a lot of horological innovations that took place ever since Rolex was established. The majority of them were actually pioneered by the brand, which raised their status as one of the top luxury watch firms in history. One of the first few feats that Rolex had since its foundation is coming up with the first-ever timepiece for the wrist to have a Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision. This honor was granted to the company in 1910 by the Official Watch Rating in Bienne, Switzerland.

A few years later, Rolex also attained the prestigious Class A precision certificate from the Kew Observatory. Making it more special, the award was only previously bestowed to marine chronometers until a watch from the brand suddenly became a trailblazer in the field. This alone attests to how the label is passionate when it comes to excellence and achieving utmost precision. During the middle of the First World War, the company changed its name to Rolex Watch Co. Ltd., and by 1919, Wilsdorf began moving the operations of his Manufacture from England to Geneva, Switzerland. Marking the company’s new start, it changed its name to Montres Rolex S.A. in 1920 and later on to Rolex S.A.

Since then, Wilsdorf became more dedicated than ever to inventing foolproof timepieces that do not only demonstrate a high level of water resistance but also to dust and any kind of moisture. In 1926, the company released a magnificent invention called the “Oyster”, which came with a sealed case and an intricate Swiss movement. Rolex also released the first-ever automatic caliber with a Perpetual rotor in 1931, creating a valuable trend in the whole watchmaking game. This became the inspiration and the leading predecessor among other names who offer the same kind of mechanism infused in their watches.

Final Thoughts

Overall, looking up the serial numbers of a Rolex watch can help you, not only in assessing whether it is authentic but also in buying the right timepiece perfect for both your wrists and for your growing collection. Furthermore, it also reveals what era a specific watch came from. Whether you prefer retro models or newer ones, conducting a serial number check will aid you in choosing what pieces will most likely increase their worth in the future. Not to mention, it will also help in determining the right value of your piece if ever you want to sell them in the future.

While it often goes unappreciated because of its low dependability and the inconsistencies it comes with, a list of Rolex serial numbers will also allow you to appreciate the brand and its products even more. It will make also you realize how Rolex strives to give consumers the best service and how it continuously demonstrates its attention to detail. By understanding the concept behind Rolex serial numbers, you will certainly make wise decisions, while leading yourself towards the right path.

To know more about Rolex, particularly the iconic collections that it carries, check out our articles on the 5 Most Popular Submariner Watches and the Trendiest Rolex Watches in 2020.

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Other photos from Rolex unless stated otherwise

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Rolex is indeed one of the most popular and esteemed Swiss luxury wristwatch manufacturers in the world. A Rolex watch is a symbol of prestige, class, wealth and, of course, flawless style. However, the brand’s immense popularity and success also paved the way for counterfeit dealers who began appearing in the market from the 1960s. Today, fake Rolex watches are becoming increasingly advanced, and they are in high demand.

There are indeed many ways or tricks to distinguish between a real and fake Rolex watch. However, Rolex serial number is always a significant way to authenticate your luxury timepiece. Now, you may wonder, ‘Do all Rolex watches have a serial number?’ The answer is:

Every Rolex watch comes with a unique serial number that depicts what year the timepiece was made. Moreover, the serial numbers are also a great way to ascertain the actual value of your Rolex watch. And, eventually, it will enable you to sell your Rolex with confidence and no hassle.

Also Read:The Most Popular Rolex Watch Is Also the Most Underrated

Rolex Watch Serial Number Check

Thus, let’s today find out what these serial numbers indicate and check a Rolex serial number. And also, know how the Rolex serial number check can help to verify your Rolex’s authenticity.

How to find a Rolex serial number?

All Rolex watches are engraved with a serial number that serves as a personal identification number. The serial number can help you to find out the approximate age of a Rolex watch. However, for those who are wondering ‘how do I check a Rolex serial number?’ it is important to note:

You can find the serial number in different places, depending on the year or age of the Rolex watch. The brand engraved the serial number between the lugs at the 6 o’clock side behind the bracelet on older Rolexes. Thus, you would require removing your bracelet from the watch case for finding out the serial number. However, it is typically a 4-8 digit number.

Well, Rolex began engraving the serial numbers on the inner bezel (called rehaut). It is present under the crystal at the 6 o’clock position from 2005 onwards. Thus, you do not have to remove the bracelet to identify the serial numbers in modern Rolex references.

While Rolex started to engrave the number only on the rehaut in 2008, all Rolex models featured their serial numbers in the same place from 2010. This means modern Rolexes do not have the serial numbers etched between the lugs at 6 o’clock. The number is on the inner rehaut.

Also Read:New Rolex Day-Date 36: The Watch of Prestige

However, a more straightforward way to check the Rolex serial number is to look at the Rolex authentication certificate. Or, if you retain the original paperwork, you will find the serial number there.

The New Serial Number System Introduced in 2010

In 2010, Rolex stopped following any consecutive numbering order, introducing a new number system for its precious watches. Today, the brand provides its timepieces with a unique and random identifying number and letter. Earlier, it was pretty easy to determine a watch’s age or production year using Rolex serial numbers databases. However, it is no longer possible as the serial numbers are mixed and random.

The most significant reason for introducing the new number system is making it more difficult for counterfeit watchmakers. It is indeed hard to laser carve the numbers with similar perfection as the way Rolex does.

Why does Rolex use Serial Numbers?

See Full List On Swiss-wrist.com

Rolex provides its watches with a unique serial number to make it easier to spot fake Rolex watches. The serial number is indeed a significant way to determine if a Rolex is real or fake, thereby helping to authenticate a Rolex watch. Rolex started achieving massive success and popularity over the years. And this paved the way for counterfeit Rolexes in the watch industry, especially in the 1960s.

What Year Is My Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet: Serial Numbers Explained

However, the brand’s first step for battling this problem was offering a unique set of serial numbers to every watch. Interestingly, the serial numbers make it difficult for fake dealers to pull their forgeries off as the real deal. Moreover, the numbers are also known to bear detailed information about each watch.

Rolex Pocket Watch Serial Numbers

Also Read: Rolex – The Kew Observatory ‘Class A’ Certificate

Rolex Watch Serial Number Location

The serial number typically delineates the watch’s year of production, where it was created and also, the craftsperson making it. Moreover, the numbers are unique to every Rolex timepiece. This means two Rolex watches will not ever possess the same serial numbers.

The new unique randomised serial number system, the Rolex authentication certificate and paperwork have made it much harder for fake Rolex watchmakers to design replicas similar to the original ones. Regardless, it is always a good idea to check the serial number of the Rolex watch you are looking to buy or sell. Follow it by Rolex serial number check or ‘verify the authenticity of Rolex serial numbers’ using the brand’s serial number chart.

Rolex Watch Serial No Or6j2001

However, for those looking for “where can I sell my Rolex”, try to find out the serial number of your watch beforehand. This will help you establish the value you are likely to obtain from professional Rolex watch buyers in London like, at The Luxury Hut.