How do I date my vintage Rolex ?

Are you wondering how to interpret the serial number of your Rolex watch and determine its manufacturing date? Discover some tips to unravel the mysteries of your watch's origin, serial numbers, and part references. Rolex serial numbers are key to estimating the production date of the case, at least for watches produced until 2010. After this pivotal year, the introduction of random serial numbers has complicated this task, making it difficult to identify the year of production. Note, however, that this information may change in the future.

It is crucial to note that while serial numbers may reveal the year of production of the case, this is not always the case for surrounding parts. 

Are you wondering where to find the serial numbers of your Rolex? Before 2005, the serial number was invariably engraved on the case between the lugs at the bottom (at 6 o'clock). If your watch was produced between 2005 and 2008, the serial number may also be engraved on the rehaut of the watch. After 2008, the serial number is exclusively engraved on the rehaut around the dial of the watch. To read this number, it is often necessary to tilt the watch correctly and, if necessary, use a small lamp and magnifying glass to facilitate reading.

Despite the introduction of random serial numbers starting from 2010, making it difficult to determine the year of production, reading the serial number remains essential to verify its match with the one indicated on the Rolex warranty card. To find the serial number of your Rolex, simply remove the bracelet, unless it dates back to before 2005. Even if you still have the watch papers, it also happens that the date indicated on the papers does not correspond to the production date of the watch.

This can be easily explained because, at that time, there were no waiting lists and some models remained in the showcase for a year, sometimes more. Thus, the sale date may differ from the production date, explaining how the production date and the sale date can sometimes differ by one or two years.

Below you will find the correspondence between the date and the serial number of your watch.