Rolex Serial Numbers !

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. Many older Rolex serial numbers are inscribed by a machine on the side of the watch between the lugs at “6 o’clock.” The bracelet must be detached at the “6” side of the case to view the serial number.

How to Determine Your Serial Number is NOT Counterfeit

The lettering on the serial number should be perfect and precise, with fine lines. Most counterfeiters use an acid-etching method which produces serial number markings with a noticeable "sandy" appearance under magnification. This is usually a clear indication that the serial number has been re-engraved or that the entire watch may be fake. If you come across a watch and the serial number is not perfect and precise we would recommend not to purchase it.

An original Rolex will have sharp and detailed engraving located between the lugs. Counterfeiters often try to mimic these engraving, the result often appears like the serial number has been roughly etched into the casing.

Although, there is an exception to the rule. Rolex serial numbers and model numbers were not always machine engraved. A vast number of vintage Rolex models were hand engraved, thus the engraving will not always look 100% perfect and precise. These vintage models that handmade engravings were made from 1920s-1960s. If you have any questions validating your serial number as it is a vintage watch please feel free to contact us.

In 2005, Rolex began engraving serial numbers on the inner watch rims for aesthetic reasons. This inner rim is referred to as the “rehaut.” This was a huge success for Rolex. This allowed the Rolex Dealers as well as the customers that owned these models the ability to be able to determine the age of the watch without removing the Rolex band.

In 2010, Rolex began engraving its pieces using randomized, arbitrary, unique identifying numbers rather than following a sequential numbering system. So while it had been relatively easy to determine a watch’s age or production year using a concrete database, serial number randomization has resulted in a more challenging lookup process. Many watch enthusiasts refer to these models as “scrambled” or “random” serial number models as they are always different.

There are a few reasons why Rolex began using this new system of serial numbers. According to Rolex, by making the serial number “scrambled” or “random” it would make it harder for counterfeiters to recreate a fake watch. It would also allow their dealers to not get stuck with new old stock if they were unable to sell the previous years models.  Thanks to Rolex and our great team, you can rest assured that all our Rolex watches are 100% genuine.