It is generally more difficult to determine the exact production year for watches produced on or after 2010. This engraving is referred to as “rehaut”. These are two digit roman numerals that showed the year of production.īeginning in 2005 Rolex established engraving serial numbers on the inner rim near the 6 o’clock position for aesthetic reasons. Rolex watches produced between 1950’s and 1960’s can be differentiated by engravings on many case backs of these watches. When the serial number 999,999 came up again in 1963 they continued using seven digits. They decided to reset serial numbers to 100,000. In 1954, Rolex reached 1,000,000 units produced. In order to view these numbers the bracelet must be removed with a special tool. In addition, every model has a specific reference number that is engraved between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position. The serial number is engraved between the lugs at the 12 o’clock position. Rolex watches are special for many reasons, one of the unique characteristics of every Rolex is the exclusive five to eight digit serial number on each timepiece.
