HomeGuidesHow to find the year of manufacture of your Rolex watch

How to find the year of manufacture of your Rolex watch

Published - by Mathieu Celi

When we buy a watch, especially an antique or vintage watch, we often ask ourselves the question ofyear of manufacture. Many factories use the serial numbers to ensure authenticity and the follow-up of their watches, also allowing to deduce the year of production. This is indicative information, as some productions may have lasted several months, or even more than a year.

The year of purchase in the store does not necessarily mean the year of production. A little less than ten years ago, some models remained in the shop window or in stock for several years.

Table of content

3Identify the year of production

Interests of knowing the year of your watch

Knowing the year of production can be very useful, especially when looking for acheter a watch with its original components. Some components of the watches may have been replaced during an overhaul, and therefore no longer correspond to the year of the watch inscribed on the case, or the flange. In this case, you will have a watch of a certain year, with some components later. The year of production is therefore an interesting criterion to study.

Another point that can tip the balance during a search: we often look at the year of production to find one similar to his year of birth, for the symbolism.

Where can I find the serial number of my Rolex watch?

Rolex allows, thanks to the serial number of its watches, to find the year of production.

Depending on the year of production, the serial number can be found in several places.

Before 2005

For Rolex watches before 2005, the number is located on the case at 6 o'clock, between the two lugs (you must carefully remove the bracelet). You can also find the model reference number at 12 o'clock between the lugs.

From 2005 to 2008

For Rolex watches produced between 2005 and 2008, the serial number is sometimes engraved on the watch's flange (the part where the dial meets the watch glass).

After 2008

After 2008, the production number of the watch is only engraved on the flange. The use of a magnifying glass is recommended to better see the number.

Identify the year of production

Année	Numéro de série
1925	25 - 27xxx
1926	28 - 29xxx
1927	30 - 32xxx
1928	33 - 34xxx
1929	35 - 37xxx
1930	38 - 39xxx
1931	40 - 41xxx
1932	42 - 44xxx
1933	45 - 48xxx
1934	49 - 62xxx
1935	63 - 80xxx
1936	81 - 98xxx
1937	99 - 116xxx
1938	117 - 134xxx
1939	135 - 163xxx
1940	164 - 193xxx
1941	194 - 222xxx
1942	223 - 252xxx
1943	253 - 282xxx
1944	283 - 347xxx
1945	348 - 412xxx
1946	413 - 489xxx
1947	490 - 549xxx
1948	550 - 607xxx
1949	608 - 672xxx
1950	673 - 736xxx
1951	737 - 803xxx
1952	804 - 868xxx
1953	869 - 933xxx
1954	934 - 1104xxx
1955	1105 - 1080xxx
1956	1090 - 1160xxx
1957	1170 - 1230xxx
1958	1240 - 1310xxx
1959	1320 - 1390xxx
1960	1400 - 1480xxx
1961	1480 - 1557xxx
1962	1558 - 1662xxx
1963	1663 - 1709xxx
1964	1710 - 1791xxx
1965	1792 - 1869xxx
1966	1870 - 2159xxx
1967	2160 - 2419xxx
1968	2420 - 2679xxx
1969	2680 - 2949xxx
1970	2950 - 3209xxx
1971	3210 - 3469xxx
1972	3470 - 3739xxx
1973	3740 - 3999xxx
1974	4000 - 4179xxx
1975	4280 - 4529xxx
1976	4530 - 4999xxx
1977	5000 - 5399xxx
1978	5400 - 5899xxx
1979	5900 - 6399xxx
1980	6400 - 6899xxx
1981	6900 - 7299xxx
1982	7300 - 7799xxx
1983	7800 - 8299xxx
1984	8300 - 8599xxx
1985	8600 - 9289xxx
1986	9290 - 9759xxx
1987	9760 - 9999xxx
1988	Rxxxxxx
1989	Lxxxxxx
1990	Exxxxxx
1991	Xxxxxxx ; Nxxxxxx
1992	Cxxxxxx
1993	Sxxxxxx
1995	Wxxxxxx
1996	Txxxxxx
1997	Uxxxxxx
1998	Axxxxxx
2000	Pxxxxxx
2001	Kxxxxxx
2002	Yxxxxxx
2004	Fxxxxxx
2005	Dxxxxxx
2006	Zxxxxxx
2008	Mxxxxxx
2009	Vxxxxxx

From the 2010s, Rolex has made the serial numbers random, no longer allowing to date the productions.

Q&A

Question

What are the most beautiful watchmaking houses?

Answer

There are many watchmaking houses known for their exceptional craftsmanship, quality and design. Here are some of the finest watchmakers: Patek Philippe, this Swiss watchmaker is known for its high quality watches and expertise in watch complications. Rolex, known for its precise, reliable and durable watches, as well as its classic and elegant design. Audemars Piguet, for its high-quality luxury watches and innovative, cutting-edge design. Vacheron Constantin, founded in 1755, one of the world's oldest houses, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and elegant design. These houses are all examples of Swiss watchmaking excellence and are considered the finest in the world for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship and design.

Question

How to set a watch?

Answer

The setting of a watch may vary depending on its type and movement. Generally, the crown on the right side of the watch is pulled out to set the time and date. Some watches may have other complications, such as a chronograph function or a time zone complication. It is important to note that some watches may require more complex adjustments, such as synchronization with a time signal or movement adjustment. If you're not sure how to set your watch, it's a good idea to consult its user manual or seek the help of a watch professional.

Question

How to buy a watch?

Answer

Research brands, styles and prices, choose a model within your budget and taste. Choose a trusted retailer, either online or in-store. Verify the authenticity and quality of the watch, by examining certificates and calling in a watch expert (never rely on photos). Take the time to consider all aspects of the watch, such as size, material, movement and complications. It is important to note that purchasing a luxury watch can be a significant investment, so it is essential to do thorough research to make an informed decision.

Question

Who is Watch Interest?

Answer

Watch Interest is a watch media founded in 2021 with a focus on quality in the service of watch passion. Our promise is to provide engaging and informative content that serves the needs of both the discerning watch enthusiast and the seasoned collector: a one-stop destination for information on watches, houses and market news.

About the author

Mathieu Celi

Passionate about timepieces, and everything that revolves around them for many years, my ambition is to share my watchmaking adventure, and help you to enlighten yourself on this world that seems so inaccessible, and yet, is not. Every watchmaking story is initiated by encounters, and continues with an endless curiosity, a real addiction to the very embodiment of time.

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