Rolex can find out the approximate year of manufacture from the serial number.
If you have a Rolex, or if you are considering buying a Rolex and want to know the model year, please check it out.
*Please note that this is only a guideline, so we treat it as around the relevant year.
Also, not all models are applicable.
Some serial numbers are unique, so please refer to the age at the bottom of the product detail page for our products.

What is a serial number?

Many luxury watches, including Rolex, are assigned a number for individual identification called a serial number.
Since a different number is assigned to each one, basically the same serial number does not exist.

where is the serial number?

So where is the serial number?
The location of the serial number differs depending on the model year.

The 2010 G numbered model can only be seen with the bracelet removed.
There is a stamp between the parts called lugs.

The serial number is engraved on the 6 o'clock side.

After that, the serial number is engraved on the outer circumference of the dial on the 6 o'clock side.

Since 2010 G number is on the outer circumference of the dial

Models that use a case other than the Oyster case may have it in a different part.

Serial number chronology

Here is the chronology of Rolex serial numbers.
Please check here for serial numbers formed only with numbers up to around 1987.

Since the latter half of 1987, the first letter has been changed to the alphabet, and the number has been changed to 6 digits.

If it starts with an alphabet, it is called a number.

Serial number after 2010

Since the G number in 2010, it has changed to a serial number called "random number" where numbers and English intersect, probably because the management of serial numbers in the alphabet has reached its limit.
At the same time, the number of digits also increased, increasing to 8 digits in total.
In other words, just because it starts with R doesn't mean it's the R number.
If there are 7 digits of numbers or alphabets after that, it will be a random number.

After 2010, it is impossible to determine the model year by serial number alone.

summary

How was that.
If you are concerned about the model year of your Rolex, please refer to this chronology.
We hope that you will find it helpful when looking for your birth year Rolex.

Click here for a list of related articles on Rolex

※As it becomes the aim to the last, the production year may be mixed up to some extent.
Thank you for your understanding.