How can I see how much my Rolex is worth?
Using your Rolex serial and reference numbers.
The key valuing your watch bottoms-up is to know how much each component is worth.
Now, we’ve already addressed some of your inquiries regarding the advantages of owning Rolex watches and have answered your questions about Rolex servicing in our earlier posts.
So today, we believe it’s time to dive even deeper into the world of Rolex by unveiling the secret behind the significance of its serial and model numbers.
These numerical characters can help you tell the age of your Rolex, the watch’s authenticity, and the current value of your Rolex investment .
But if you want to know more about the Rolex serial number system from this luxury brand, keep reading along!
Related: How Does The Rolex Waiting List Work
How Do You Check If A Rolex Is Real?
We all know that Rolex watches are among the most expensive timepieces in the market today.
However, there are affordable Rolex models available in the secondary markets, given you know what you’re looking for and where to look.
But how will you know if the watch you want to buy is genuine or fake?
If you want to buy pre-owned Rolex watches, you could always ask the previous owners to show you some papers to guarantee their authenticity. But sometimes, some sellers might not have the necessary documentation or might try to present counterfeit papers.
So for us, one of the best ways to verify a Rolex timepiece is by checking its serial number for authentication and verification, as every Rolex watch has a unique serial number engraved on them.
Explained: Rolex Serial Numbers
How Many Digits Is A Rolex Serial Number?
As we said earlier, Rolex’s serial number can help you know if your specific watch is genuine or fake, as counterfeit timepieces often don’t have serial numbers engraved on them.
But more than that, these 4-8 numerical characters can also help you to determine the year of production of a timepiece.
The Rolex production date can provide you with valuable insights into your watch such as vintage designation, as well as its true market value.
However, it’s also worth being aware that in 2009, Rolex adopted a random numbering system for their serial numbers.
As a result, knowing the exact production age of watches produced from late 2010 onwards requires taking the timepiece to a Rolex-authorized dealer or checking its official documentation, especially if it’s a pre-owned Rolex model.
Where Can I Look Up My Rolex Serial Number?
If you wish to find the serial number of your Rolex watch, you might need a specialized watch tool kit to remove the spring bar and the straps.
The serial number is engraved between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position.
But this is not the same for all Rolex watches.
Starting in 2005, Rolex began engraving the serial number on the watch’s “rehaut” (between the dial and a sapphire crystal) or on the inner bezel.
These changes make it more difficult for fraudsters to make a fake imitation.
Chart: Production Date By Serial Number
Here is a Rolex serial number chart that you can use to know the production dates of your Rolex watch.
| SERIAL NUMBER | PRODUCTION DATE |
| 20000 | 1927 |
| 22500 | 1928 |
| 25000 | 1929 |
| 26500 | 1930 |
| 28000 | 1931 |
| 28500 | 1932 |
| 28500 | 1932 |
| 29000 | 1933 |
| 32000 | 1934 |
| 35000 | 1935 |
| 37000 | 1936 |
| 40000 | 1937 |
| 55000 | 1938 |
| 71000 | 1939 |
| 90000 | 1940 |
| 106000 | 1941 |
| 150000 | 1942 |
| 230000 | 1943 |
| 270000 | 1944 |
| 302000 | 1945 |
| 400000 | 1946 |
| 529000 | 1947 |
| 570000 | 1948 |
| 600000 | 1949 |
| 650000 | 1950 |
| 700000 | 1951 |
| 800000 | 1952 |
| 900000 | 1953 |
| 10000 to 300000 | 1953 to 1957 |
| 350000 | 1958 |
| 400000 | 1959 |
| 550000 | 1960 |
| 700000 | 1961 |
| 800000 | 1962 |
| 900000 | 1963 |
| 1000000 | 1964 |
| 1200000 | 1965 |
| 1400000 | 1966 |
| 1600000 | 1967 |
| 1850000 | 1968 |
| 2300000 | 1969 |
| 2500000 | 1970 |
| 2900000 | 1971 |
| 3300000 | 1972 |
| 3750000 | 1973 |
| 3900000 | 1974 |
| 4250000 | 1975 |
| 4500000 | 1976 |
| 5000000 | 1977 |
| 5400000 | 1978 |
| 5950000 | 1979 |
| 6400000 | 1980 |
| 7000000 | 1981 |
| 7350000 | 1982 |
| 7750000 | 1983 |
| 8100000 | 1984 |
| 8600000 | 1985 |
| 9000000 | 1986 |
| 9500000 | 1987 |
| R000001 | 1987 |
| L000001 | 1989 |
| E000001 | 1990 |
| X000001 | 1991 |
| N000001 | 1991 |
| C000001 | 1992 |
| S000001 | 1993 |
| W000001 | 1994 |
| T000001 | 1996 |
| U000001 | 1997 |
| A000001 | 1998 |
| P000001 | 2000 |
| K000001 | 2001 |
| Y000001 | 2002 |
| F000001 | 2003 |
| D000001 | 2005 |
| Z000001 | 2006 |
| M000001 | 2007 |
| V000001 | 2008 |
| G000001 | Mid 2010 |
| Random Number | Late 2010 – Present |
Explained: Rolex Model Reference Numbers
How Many Digits Is A Rolex Reference Number?
Rolex model numbers, also known as reference numbers, are 4 to 6 digits that are used to indicate different information about the watch, such as the model type, bezel, and case material used in a model.
Sometimes these model numbers are accompanied by letters to further specify the particular characteristics of the model.
Let’s take the Rolex Submariner-Date reference number 16610LV, also known as the “Kermit”, as an example.
- The first three digits, 166, indicate that this watch is a Submariner with a date.
- The second digit, which is 1, means that it has an engine-turned bezel.
- The last number, which is 0, this number signifies that this timepiece is made with stainless steel.
These rules can be confusing, and there isn’t an official guide for this.
But you can check the most complete list we can gather in the table below to further translate these reference numbers.
Where Can I Look Up My Rolex Reference Number?
The model number on your Rolex watch is engraved in the middle of the lugs on the side of the watch case, just above the 12 o’clock position.
To find your Rolex model number, you’ll need to utilize watch tool kits, including a spring bar removal tool.
This tool helps disengage the strap from the lugs, allowing you to have a full view of the engraved numbers.
Chart: Reference Number By Model
Here are tables that you can use to translate the reference number of your Rolex watch into the model, bezel and material.
| NUMBER | ROLEX TYPE |
| 55 & 140 | Submariner |
| 16, 166 & 168 | Submariner-Date |
| 16 & 166 | Sea Dweller |
| 16, 65, 167 | GMT Master |
| 167, 1167 | GMT Master II |
| 65, 66, 18, 180, 182 & 183 | Day-Date (President) |
| 16 & 162 | Datejust |
| 62 | Daytona Manual Wind |
| 165, 1165 | Daytona Cosmograph |
| 165 | Explorer II |
| 10, 140, 142 | Oyster Perpetual |
| 55 & 140 | Air-King |
| 15 & 150 | Date |
| 170 | Oysterquartz Datejust |
| 190 | Oysterquartz Day-Date |
| 166, 686 & 696 | Yachtmaster |
| 68, 682 | Midsize Oyster Perp DJ |
| 67, 671, 672 | Ladies Oyster Perpetual |
| 65, 69, 691 & 692 | Ladies Date |
| 65, 69, 691 & 692 | Ladies Datejust |
| NUMBER | BEZEL |
| 0 | Polished |
| 1 | Engine Turned |
| 2 | Engine Turned |
| 3 | Fluted |
| 4 | Hand-Crafted |
| 5 | Pyramid |
| 6 | Rotating Bezel |
| NUMBER | MATERIAL |
| 0 | Stainless |
| 1 | Yellow Gold Filled |
| 2 | White Gold Filled |
| 3 | Stainless & Yellow Gold |
| 4 | Stainless w/ 18k White Gold |
| 5 | Gold Shell |
| 6 | Platinum |
| 7 | 14k Yellow Gold |
| 8 | 18k Yellow Gold |
Explained: Rolex Clasp Code
How Many Digits Is A Rolex Clasp Code?
Besides reference and serial numbers, Rolex watches also have clasp codes that serve as date codes or the manufacture date of the clasp.
These codes are composed of 1 to 2 letters followed by a number that represents the Rolex production year and month.
For example, if your Rolex watch clasp has an engraved date code that indicates I4, then this means that it was made in April 1984.
Where Can I Look Up My Rolex Clasp Code?
Finding the production date of your Rolex clasp is very simple and easy.
Just remove your watch from your wrist and look at the clasp hinge, where the small engraved letter and number can be found.
Chart: Year By Clasp Code
Here is a guide that you can use to understand the clasp codes of your Rolex watch.
| CODE | PRODUCTION 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+ |
Explained: Rolex Bracelet Serial Code
How Many Digits Is A Rolex Bracelet Serial Code?
Rolex bracelet numbers, also known as “bracelet codes”, are a series of letters and numbers that are engraved on the end links of Rolex watch bracelets.
These codes are used to determine the exact model of the bracelet, its production year, and the references of the watches on which it was mounted.
These codes typically consist of a combination of 3-5 alphanumeric codes and a Rolex crown stamped on.
Where Can I Look Up My Rolex Bracelet Serial Code?
Rolex started using solid end links (SEL) for their timepieces in the 2000s.
The final links on the watch’s bracelet attach to the case and contain the bracelet code.
Chart: Type By Bracelet Code
| CODE | PRODUCTION YEAR |
| A | 1976 |
| B | 1977 |
| C | 1978 |
| D | 1979 |
| E | 1980 |
| F | 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 | 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 |
| CP | 2011 |
Explained: Rolex Country Code
How Many Digits Is A Rolex Country Code?
The country code of a Rolex, also known as “Rolex Client Number,” stands for the respective country to which the watch was delivered.
This 3-digit code provides valuable insights into the regional market for which the timepiece was distributed.
For example, if a watch is intended for Rolex USA, the corresponding country code would be 710, aligning with the specific numerical designation of the country.
You can check the detailed mapping in chart below.
Where Can I Look Up My Rolex Country Code?
You can easily find the country code on the warranty certificate of a Rolex watch.
If you own older Rolex watches from before 2007, then the country code might be after the word “Garantie.” But if its production year is 2007 or above, the country code appears at the top under “N Client.”
Chart: Country By Bracelet Code
Here is a guide that shows the country code for different countries. Some countries may have more codes as this indicates the exact area where the Rolex will be distributed.
| CODE | COUNTRY |
| 10 | Switzerland |
| 12 | Switzerland |
| 13 | Switzerland |
| 14 | Switzerland |
| 15 | Switzerland |
| 21 | Switzerland |
| 25 | Switzerland |
| 26 | Switzerland |
| 33 | Switzerland |
| 45 | Switzerland |
| 100 | Germany |
| 110 | France |
| 113 | France |
| 120 | Austria |
| 121 | Austria |
| 123 | Austria |
| 126 | Austria |
| 128 | Austria |
| 130 | Belgium / Luxemburg |
| 133 | Netherlands |
| 134 | Netherlands |
| 135 | Netherlands |
| 137 | Netherlands |
| 138 | Netherlands |
| 150 | Spain |
| 160 | England |
| 170 | Italy |
| 200 | Greece |
| 201 | Malta |
| 202 | Turkey |
| 208 | Greece |
| 213 | Portugal |
| 217 | Portugal |
| 226 | Denmark |
| 228 | Denmark |
| 233 | Denmark |
| 237 | Iceland |
| 265 | Sweden |
| 267 | Sweden |
| 270 | Sweden |
| 271 | Sweden |
| 283 | Finnland |
| 321 | Czech Republic |
| 400 | Hong Kong |
| 413 | Korea |
| 430 | Singapore / Brunei |
| 431 | Malaysia |
| 440 | Taiwan |
| 500 | India |
| 505 | Pakistan |
| 527 | Middle East |
| 532 | Saudi Arabia |
| 536 | Abu Dhabi |
| 537 | Dubai |
| 538 | Oman |
| 542 | Iran |
| 548 | Israel |
| 680 | South Africa |
| 700 | Canada |
| 710 | USA |
| 720 | Mexico |
| 741 | Bahamas |
| 742 | Bermuda |
| 752 | Jamaica |
| 758 | Virgin Islands |
| 761 | Netherlands Antilles |
| 762 | Aruba |
| 765 | Antigua |
| 766 | Saint Martin |
| 767 | Grand Cayman |
| 768 | Panama |
| 770 | Venezuela |
| 780 | Brazil |
| 781 | Chile |
| 783 | Peru |
| 790 | Argentina |
| 810 | Australia |
| 818 | Philippines |
| 828 | China |
| 842 | New Zealand |
| 871 | Hawaii |
| 872 | Alaska |
| 873 | Guam |
| 888 | Hong Kong |
| 900 | Japan |
| 906 | Natex Retail, German NATO Airbase |
Rolex Serial Numbers – FAQ
Determining the fair market value of a watch involves assessing the age of the timepiece, the materials used, the condition, as well as the complexity of the movement.
Yes. A genuine Rolex timepiece always comes with a certificate of authenticity and warranty documentation.
Yes. To confirm whether a watch has been reported stolen or missing, you can obtain its serial number and reach out to Rolex.
Rolex Serial Numbers – Putting It All Together
There you go!
Those are all the things you need to know about Rolex serial numbers and how to find the production date of these watches. We hope this guide can help you further understand and appreciate your luxury timepiece.
Want to know who are the famous personalities who represent the Rolex watch brand? If so, check out our article about some of the most prominent watch ambassadors of Rolex watches.
And if you have questions, comments, or suggestions, please feel free to leave us a message below!
