Jeson Clarke

A Quick Guide to Rolex Serial Numbers

Understanding how to certify authenticity is paramount with a high-value item like a Rolex watch. The easiest way to gather information about your timepiece is by looking at the serial numbers. Rolex numbers can provide you with tons of information, ultimately helping you determine a piece's value.

This guide will give you some need-to-know information about watch serial numbers.

Where To Find Serial Numbers

First things first, where can you find your serial number? There are a few stops, and the exact location will depend on the year it came out and the model itself.

Older Rolex watches have the serial numbers engraved between the 6:00 lugs. You'll likely have to remove the bracelet to see it. On some pieces, it's between the 12:00 lugs.

For newer models, you don't have to remove the bracelet. Rolex engraves the serial number on the inner bezel just under the crystal. It should be at the 6:00 position. You'll also see the "Rolex Rolex Rolex" engraving surrounding the numbers.

Watches made after 2010 might have scattered or scrambled numbers. Rolex made this change to reduce counterfeits. It does not negatively affect value.

Understanding Rolex Serial Numbers

The serial numbers can tell you when Rolex made the watch. You can also use it to test authenticity. But for the latter case, you have to compare the numbers to official paperwork and warranty information.

To learn more about your watch, you can search online through crowd sourced data or contact Rolex for more information. Because Rolex changed the numbering system frequently throughout its history, you can use some basic information to get a general idea of the watch's age.

For example, five-digit serial numbers with no leading letter indicate the watch first sold between the years 1925 to 1937. Different number ranges reflect specific manufacturing years.

In 1938, Rolex moved to six-digit serial numbers. By 1955, the brand started using seven-digit numbers.

The latter half of 1982 saw the introduction of letters. The letter appears first on the number combination, reflecting the following years:

• R: 1988
• L: 1989-1990
• E : 1990-1991
• X: 1991
• N: 1991
• C: 1992
• S: 1993-1994
• W: 1995-1998
• T: 1996-1998
• U: 1997-1998
• A: 1998-1999
• P: 2000
• K: 2001
• Y: 2002
• F: 2003-2004
• D: 2005-2006
• Z: 2006-2007
• M: 2008
• M: 2008
• V: 2008-2010

The information above will give you a general idea of your watch's manufacturing year. But, you'll need to do additional research to figure out more in-depth information about your Rolex's overall value.

Author Resource:-

Jeson Clarke is providing info about pre-owned luxury watches, selling, buying, watch repair and services. You can find his thoughts at branded luxury watches blog.