Model Number Reference Chart

This section is particularly important for those who wish to establish the authenticity of a Rolex watch before making their final purchase decision. As the counterfeit Rolex watch industry is growing rapidly, many Rolex enthusiasts are worried about the genuineness of the watch they purchase. However, they can distinguish a genuine Rolex from a counterfeit without much difficulty and with the proper guidance. Model Reference Number or Case Reference Number can help identify an authentic Rolex watch as either most of the replicas of these watches do not carry any reference number or, if they do, in most cases the number is incorrect.

The Case/Model Reference Number of a genuine Rolex watch is located between the lugs at the 12 O'clock position and is printed on the certificate issued by Rolex to all individual watches that are offered for sale. The inside of the case back is also engraved with the Model or Case Reference Number. However, in case of Oysterquartz models, the Case Reference Number is located on the back side of the case lugs.The early Rolex models bear a 4-digit reference number, while the watches produced between mid 1980s and 2000 carry a 5-digit reference number. All currently produced watches (since 2000) are engraved with a 6-digit reference number. The difference between the 5-digit and 6-digit Case Reference Numbers is that the latter consists of an extra "1" before the previous 5-digit number.

For The Full article please visit the Melrose Jewelers Rolex Information & Education section at : http://www.melrosejewelers.co.uk/content/rolex_education_rolex_model_number_reference_chart.htm