Decoding Rolex Serial & Reference Numbers | ElegantSwiss Insights (2024)

MODEL NUMBERS

Rolex engraves or assigns a 4-6 digit model number to every watch type it produces. This number can be found engraved between the lugs on the side of the case above 12 o’clock. The model number can indicate the model type, bezel, and material of your watch. For example, the reference number 16234 can be broken out into three section, which is 162 | 3 | 4. The first, 162, indicates that this watch is a Datejust. The second, 3, indicates that the bezel is fluted. The third, 4, indicates that the watch material is Stainless w/ 18k White Gold.

Material

Bezel

ROLEX CLASP CODES

Many Rolex watches have a clasp code located inside the clasp hinge. This code is based on the month and year the clasp was manufactured. After inspecting the clasp you will see 1 or 2 letters followed by a number. The letter corresponds with a year and the number signifies a month. For instance, per the table below, we see that a bracelet stamped G4 was manufactured in April 1982. A service replacement bracelet would have an additional "S" stamped along with the year.

COUNTRY CODES

The table below lists all the 3 digit country codes for Rolex watches. This country code can be found in the upper left hand corner on the Rolex Guaranty Certificate. There is no country code for the USA and most watches older than 1980 will NOT have a country code.

SAPPHIRE EVOLUTION

The upgrade to the sapphire crystal occurred on the following years. This data was originally compiled from Professor Rolex Matthias.

RED LETTERS

Some of the older papers issued in the United States have red letters stamped on the certificate. These red letters signifies when the watch was shipped from Rolex USA to an Authorized Dealer.

ROLEXWATCH

1234567890

For example, L RCCT would be 3 1998 or March 19, 1998.

Rolex Serial Numbers with Production Dates

The Rolex serial numbers are found between the lugs on the side of the case at the 6 o'clock side, behind the bracelet. This 4-8 digit number is engraved by Rolex on every watch and it can be used to determine its production date. Beginning in 2005, the Company started to also engrave the serial number on the inside flange (or "rehaut" as it's called in French) between the dial and the crystal. Starting in 2008, the Company began to only engrave the numbers on the rehaut. We provide this verified database chart for those folks looking for an answer to an often asked question, "where or how do I find the Rolex serial numbers on my watch."

These sets of numbers, for example 28000 for the year 1926 or Z000001 for year 2006, are inscribed by machine on the side of the watch case between the lugs at 6 o’clock (see below). It is very helpful to know the official Rolex production date to help us determine its market value.

How To Find The Production Year Of Your Rolex

While there is no "Official" Rolex Serial numbers database list from the Rolex Factory that shows dates of production, this chart below lists all the serial numbers gathered by proven authorities over the years. See the list below by production year to learn the year your watch was made. If you decide to sell a Rolex, check out our official price list before doing so. We've also added a serial numbers look-up table for Tudor watches below. These charts will be frequently updated to reflect any changes in the numbering system for future years.

How To Find The Serial Numbers On Your Rolex Watch

The serial numbers can be found in one of two places on the watch. First check the inner rim of the watch face (also called the rehaut, which is french for "flange") between the dial and the crystal. If the watch was produced in 2005 or newer the serial should be engraved on the rehaut. On older Rolexes, this serial is located on the side of the watch case at the 6 o'clock position where the bracelet is attached. To view these serial numbers, the bracelet must be detached from the 6 'clock side of the case. For instructions on removing the bracelet, see the video to the right or call us at 347-871-3229 to speak with a Rolex expert.

Find The Model Number On Your Rolex Watch

The model or reference number is located on the side of the watch case at the 12 o'clock position. As with the serial number, the bracelet must be detached from the 12 o'clock side of the case to be able to check the serial number. For instructions on removing the bracelet, watch the video above or call us at 347-871-3229 to speak with a Rolex expert.