Rolex Serial Number Reference Guide: How They Have Changed Over the Years

Rolex Serial Number Reference Guide: How They Have Changed Over the Years
March 28, 2023 4 min read
Rolex Serial Number Reference Guide: How They Have Changed Over the Years

Rolex watches are known for their precision engineering, exquisite design, and value. One aspect of Rolex watches that is often overlooked, however, is their serial numbers. These unique identifiers can reveal a lot of information about a Rolex watch, including its age, production location, and model. In this journal entry, we'll take a closer look at Rolex serial numbers and why they have changed over the years.

 

Rolex Datejust 36 116234 in Stainless Steel & White Gold with a Blue Roman Dial

 

EARLY ROLEX SERIAL NUMBERS

In the early days, Rolex used a simple sequential numbering system, with numbers ranging from 00,001 to 999,999. The exact date when the first serial number was assigned is unclear, but it's believed to have been in the early 1920s. Over the years, Rolex has refined and improved its serial number system, making it more complex and difficult to counterfeit. 

 

ROLEX SERIAL NUMBERS IN THE MODERN ERA

In the 1950s, Rolex introduced a new system for assigning serial numbers to its watches. This system used a combination of letters and numbers, with a letter denoting the production year and a number indicating the production month.

In 2005, Rolex started also engraving the rehaut with the serial number at the 6 o'clock location, but in 2008 they removed the serial number entirely from 6 o'clock in-between the lugs and switched to strictly have the serial number only engraved in the rehaut to make it more difficult to counterfeit. But Rolex had one more trick up their sleeve to help combat counterfeiting entirely.

Rolex Lady-Datejust with no rehaut engraving

Rolex GMT-Master II with rehaut engraving

 

CURRENT ROLEX SERIAL NUMBER SYSTEM

Starting in 2010, Rolex started using a randomized serial number system that does not follow any discernible pattern. This system makes it more difficult for counterfeiters to create fake watches, as they cannot simply rely on a known formula to generate serial numbers. This system is still used today.

 

 

Rolex Serial Number Reference Guide

 

 

1980

1981

1982

1983

1984

1985

1986

 

 

6,4xx,xxx

6,9xx,xxx

7,3xx,xxx

7,8xx,xxx

8,3xx,xxx

8,8xx,xxx

9,2xx,xxx

 

 

1987-1990

1989-1991

1991-1992

1991-1993

1992-1993

1992-1994

1993-1995

 

 

R

L

E

X

N

C

S

 

 

1995-1999

1996-1999

1996-1999

1997-2001

2000-2003

2001-2004

2002-2005

 

 

W

T

U

A

P

K

Y

 

 

2003-2006

2004-2006

2006-2009

2007-2010

2008-2010

2008-2010

2010-NOW

 

 

F

D

Z

M

V

G

*

 

*Random Serial Number

 

CONCLUSION

Rolex serial numbers are an important aspect of the company's history and can provide valuable information about a watch's age, production location, and model. While Rolex has changed its serial number system over the years to combat counterfeiting, the importance of these unique identifiers remains unchanged. Whether you're a serious watch collector or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, understanding Rolex serial numbers can help you make informed decisions when purchasing a Rolex watch.

 

Do you think Rolex should adopt a more transparent serial number system, or do you believe the current randomized system is the best way to combat counterfeiting?
Let us know in the comments.

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