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.
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
| 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.
What are the most beautiful watchmaking houses?
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.
How to set a watch?
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.
How to buy a watch?
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.
Who is Watch Interest?
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 CeliPassionate 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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