There are several theories on why Rolex has done this. Due to this change, it cannot be determined what year a Rolex was made if it was manufactured post-2010. The biggest change in Rolex serial numbers, however, came about by the end of 2010, when Rolex decided to use random serial numbers. But to confuse matters even more, they did not begin with the letter “A” but instead, the letter “R,” then “L,” then “E,” followed by other non-sequential letters. The bracelet must be removed to see the serial and reference numbers When Rolex reached #9,999,999 in mid-1987, the company began adding a letter followed by six digits. Thankfully, Rolex also furnished the interior of the casebacks with date codes, thus making it easier to differentiate between a pre-1954 serial number and post-1954 one (if you open up the watch). So a watch from the 1960s can have the same reference number as one from the 1950s.
#Rolex watch serial number lookup serial numbers
For example, Rolex reset the serial numbers in 1954 after they reached #999,999. We say in theory, because there have been a few irregularities over the years. So in theory, a Rolex serial number can tell you what year (approximately) the watch was made in. As a result, each Rolex serial number is unique (there are exceptions, as we’ll see shortly).
What do these numbers mean? What’s the difference between Rolex serial numbers and Rolex reference numbers? How can I tell what year my Rolex was produced? If you have any of these unanswered questions, then read our handy guide to Rolex serial numbers and Rolex reference numbers.Įvery Rolex watch that comes out of the factory is designated with its own serial number. Once you spend a little time looking at Rolex watches and comparing models, one thing you’ll notice is long strings of numbers and letters being thrown around.