Check Your Rolex Production Year
Find your Rolex production year from the serial number
How to Find Your Rolex Serial Number?
To find your Rolex serial number, you’ll need to look in specific locations on the watch, depending on its age. For models made in 2005 or later, the serial number is engraved on the “rehaut”, which is the inner rim between the dial and the crystal. For older models, you’ll find the serial number at the 6 o’clock position on the side of the watch case, behind where the bracelet attaches. In this case, you’ll need to detach the bracelet to view the number. Each Rolex has a unique 4-8 digit serial number, useful for determining its authenticity and production date.
Note that Rolex switched to a random serial numbering system in 2009, so for watches made after that year, consult an official Rolex dealer or the watch’s papers for accurate identification.
Rolex Serial Numbers & Production Dates Lookup Chart
To decipher the production date of your Rolex, you can refer to the two tables below:
| Serial Number Range | Production Year |
|---|---|
| 25 – 27XXX | 1925 |
| 28 – 29XXX | 1926 |
| 30 – 32XXX | 1927 |
| 33 – 34XXX | 1928 |
| 35 – 37XXX | 1929 |
| 38 – 39XXX | 1930 |
| 40 – 41XXX | 1931 |
| 42 – 44XXX | 1932 |
| 45 – 48XXX | 1933 |
| 49 – 62XXX | 1934 |
| 63 – 80XXX | 1935 |
| 81 – 98XXX | 1936 |
| 99 – 116XXX | 1937 |
| 117 – 134XXX | 1938 |
| 135 – 163XXX | 1939 |
| 164 – 193XXX | 1940 |
| 194 – 222XXX | 1941 |
| 223 – 252XXX | 1942 |
| 253 – 282XXX | 1943 |
| 283 – 347XXX | 1944 |
| 348 – 412XXX | 1945 |
| 413 – 489XXX | 1946 |
| 490 – 549XXX | 1947 |
| 550 – 607XXX | 1948 |
| 608 – 672XXX | 1949 |
| 673 – 736XXX | 1950 |
| 737 – 803XXX | 1951 |
| 804 – 868XXX | 1952 |
| 869 – 933XXX | 1953 |
| 934 – 1104XXX | 1954 |
| 1105 – 1080XXX | 1955 |
| 1090 – 1160XXX | 1956 |
| 1170 – 1230XXX | 1957 |
| 1240 – 1310XXX | 1958 |
| 1320 – 1390XXX | 1959 |
| 1400 – 1480XXX | 1960 |
| 1480 – 1557XXX | 1961 |
| 1558 – 1662XXX | 1962 |
| 1663 – 1709XXX | 1963 |
| 1710 – 1791XXX | 1964 |
| 1792 – 1869XXX | 1965 |
| Serial Number Range | Production Year |
|---|---|
| 1870 – 2159XXX | 1966 |
| 2160 – 2419XXX | 1967 |
| 2420 – 2679XXX | 1968 |
| 2680 – 2949XXX | 1969 |
| 2950 – 3209XXX | 1970 |
| 3210 – 3469XXX | 1971 |
| 3470 – 3739XXX | 1972 |
| 3740 – 3999XXX | 1973 |
| 4000 – 4179XXX | 1974 |
| 4280 – 4529XXX | 1975 |
| 4530 – 4999XXX | 1976 |
| 5000 – 5399XXX | 1977 |
| 5400 – 5899XXX | 1978 |
| 5900 – 6399XXX | 1979 |
| 6400 – 6899XXX | 1980 |
| 900 – 7299XXX | 1981 |
| 7300 – 7799XXX | 1982 |
| 7800 – 8299XXX | 1983 |
| 8300 – 8599XXX | 1984 |
| 8600 – 9289XXX | 1985 |
| 9290 – 9759XXX | 1986 |
| 9760 – 9999XXX | 1987 |
| RXXXXXX | 1988 |
| LXXXXXX | 1989 |
| EXXXXXX | 1990 |
| XXXXXXX | 1991 |
| NXXXXXX | 1991 |
| CXXXXXX | 1992 |
| SXXXXXX | 1993 |
| WXXXXXX | 1995 |
| TXXXXXX | 1996 |
| UXXXXXX | 1997 |
| AXXXXXX | 1998 |
| PXXXXXX | 2000 |
| KXXXXXX | 2001 |
| YXXXXXX | 2002 |
| FXXXXXX | 2004 |
| DXXXXXX | 2005 |
| ZXXXXXX | 2006 |
| MXXXXXX | 2008 |
| VXXXXXX | 2009 |
Decoding Rolex Model Numbers
In addition to the serial number, Rolex watches also bear model numbers that furnish further information about the watch’s specifics. Rolex model numbers are found nestled between the watch casing lugs at the 12 o’clock position. Whether 4, 5, or 6 digits long, this sequence, though appearing random, carries specific meanings. The initial two to four digits of the code categorize the watch type. Watches with five or six digits in their model number use the penultimate number to describe the bezel, while the last digit denotes the watch’s metal type. Certain watches will have alphabetic characters following the numbers, providing added details about the watch.
Rolex Model Numbers & Types Lookup Chart
| Rolex Type | Model Numbers |
|---|---|
| Submariner (no date) | 55, 140 |
| Submariner | 16, 166, 168 |
| Sea Dweller | 16, 166 |
| GMT Master | 16, 65, 167 |
| GMT Master II | 167, 1167 |
| Day-Date (President) | 65, 66, 18, 180, 182, 183 |
| Datejust | 16, 162 |
| Daytona Manual Wind | 62 |
| Daytona Cosmograph | 165, 1165 |
| Explorer II | 165 |
| Oyster Perpetual | 10, 140, 142 |
| Airking | 55, 140 |
| Date | 15, 150 |
| Oysterquartz Datejust | 170 |
| Oysterquartz Day-Date | 190 |
| Yachtmaster | 166, 686, 696 |
| Midsize Oyster Perp DJ | 68, 682 |
| Ladies Oyster Perpetual | 67, 671, 672 |
| Ladies Date | 65, 69, 691, 692 |
| Ladies Datejust | 65, 69, 691, 692 |
Rolex Bezel Types Lookup Chart
| Bezel Type | Code |
|---|---|
| POLISHED | 0 |
| ENGINE TURNED | 1 |
| ENGINE TURNED | 2 |
| FLUTED | 3 |
| HAND-CRAFTED | 4 |
| PYRAMID | 5 |
| ROTATING BEZEL | 6 |
Rolex Material Types Lookup Chart
| Material Type | Code |
|---|---|
| STAINLESS | 0 |
| YELLOW GOLD FILLED | 1 |
| WHITE GOLD FILLED | 2 |
| STAINLESS & YELLOW GOLD | 3 |
| STAINLESS W/ 18K WHITE GOLD | 4 |
| GOLD SHELL | 5 |
| PLATINUM | 6 |
| 14K YELLOW GOLD | 7 |
| 18K YELLOW GOLD | 8 |
Deciphering Rolex Clasp Codes
Akin to the model numbers, Rolex watches also feature unique clasp codes. These tiny engravings found on the bracelet’s clasp not only vouch for the watch’s authenticity but also provide an insightful peek into the year of its production.
Rolex initiated the practice of engraving these codes in 1976. Initially, they adhered to an alphabetical pattern, but in subsequent years, the pattern evolved, incorporating a mix of letters. To efficiently identify the production year of your Rolex using the clasp code, refer to our Rolex Clasp Codes & Production Dates Lookup Chart provided below.
Rolex Clasp Codes & Production Dates Lookup Chart
| Bracelet Code | Year |
|---|---|
| A or VA | 1976 |
| B or VB | 1977 |
| C or VC | 1978 |
| D or VD | 1979 |
| E or VE | 1980 |
| F or VF | 1981 |
| G | 1982 |
| H | 1983 |
| I | 1984 |
| J | 1985 |
| K | 1986 |
| L | 1987 |
| M | 1988 |
| N | 1989 |
| O | 1990 |
| P | 1991 |
| Q | 1992 |
| R | 1993 |
| S | 1994 |
| T or W | 1995 |
| V | 1996 |
| Z | 1997 |
| U | 1998 |
| X | 1999 |
| AB | 2000 |
| DE | 2001 |
| DT | 2002 |
| AD | 2003 |
| CL | 2004 |
| MA | 2005 |
| OP | 2006 |
| EO | 2007 |
| PJ | 2008 |
| LT | 2009 |
| RS | 2010 |
| RANDOM | 201+ |
Tips for Engaging with Rolex Dealers
Stepping into the world of luxury watches can be both exciting and overwhelming. And with Rolex’s prestigious reputation, it’s no surprise that many are drawn to its allure. However, as with any luxury item, caution is crucial. Not every dealer you encounter will have your best interests at heart. Here are some tips for engaging with Rolex dealers:
- Do Your Homework: Before making a purchase, understand the basics of your desired model. Familiarize yourself with its serial number and production year using our Rolex Production Dates Lookup tool.
- Ask Questions: A genuine dealer will have no qualms answering any queries about the watch’s authenticity, its history, and its valuation. Questions can be your first line of defense against scams.
- Seek Recommendations: Word of mouth is powerful. Engage with watch enthusiast communities or friends who’ve had positive experiences with specific dealers.
- Know the Value: Research the market value of specific Rolex models. Articles like do Rolex watches hold value provide insights that can prepare you for negotiations.
Why does the Production Year Matter?
A Rolex isn’t just a timepiece; it’s an investment. Over the years, many Rolex watches have not only retained their value but have also been appreciated them, making them coveted assets. The production year of a Rolex, determined from its serial number, can be a significant factor influencing its market value.
Vintage models, especially those from notable years or with a limited production run, can fetch staggering prices in the market. Similarly, certain discontinued models or those with unique features tied to specific production years can become highly sought after. For enthusiasts and collectors, understanding the value trajectory of these watches is pivotal. Dive deeper into this topic with our articles on Why is Rolex so expensive to understand the intricate factors that play into Rolex pricing.
FAQs
Can I check Rolex serial number?
Yes, you can check the Rolex serial number, which is typically engraved between the lugs on the side of the case at the 6 o’clock position. Once you have the serial number, you can use our Rolex Serial Numbers & Production Dates Lookup Chart to determine the production year of your Rolex watch.
Can you tell a Rolex year by a serial number?
Absolutely. The Rolex serial number provides valuable information about the production year of the watch. Rolex has a systematic serial number system, and by referencing it, you can determine the approximate year your Rolex was produced. Our Rolex Serial Numbers & Production Dates Lookup tool above can assist you in this endeavor.
How do I authenticate my Rolex serial?
To authenticate your Rolex serial number, it’s advisable to first cross-reference it with the Rolex Serial Numbers & Production Dates Lookup Chart. However, for a thorough authentication process, consider taking your Rolex to an official Rolex dealer or a trusted watch expert who can provide insights into its authenticity. Remember that while the serial number can provide information about the production year, authenticating a Rolex involves examining various aspects of the watch, including its movement, logo, craftsmanship, and more.
Conclusion
Rolex, a name synonymous with luxury, precision, and exclusivity, is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy. Each Rolex watch tells a story, a narrative intricately woven with its serial number, model type, and production year. As admirers or potential owners, understanding this narrative enriches the experience of owning such a masterpiece.
With the knowledge shared in this guide, our aim is to empower you. Whether you’re navigating the vast seas of the luxury watch market, negotiating with dealers, or simply cherishing the Rolex on your wrist, may you do so with confidence, awareness, and a deep sense of appreciation.
