When searching for indications of a counterfeit Rolex, there are various features on the watch case that reveal its authenticity or lack thereof. Having both versions of the pilots watch available at the same time was just a matter of economics. Rolex Daytona 'A Serial' 18 Karat White Gold Automatic Men's Watch 16519. Unlike the three previous references of the GMT-Master, the Rolex GMT-Master 16700 was only available in one metal variant and bezel color options were limited to just two. The Ultimate Rolex Reference Numbers Guide, 18k White Gold Baguette Cut and Round Cut Diamond Ring, 18k White Gold Baguette and Round Diamond Drop Earrings, 18k White Gold Baguette Marquis and Round Cut Diamond Ring, Rolex Datejust Wimbledon Dial Ref. It sat in a safe until after his passing and I decided to bring new life to it in 2016. Its not uncommon for someone to suddenly and unexpectedly become the owner of a watch. Rolex serial number check: Explained & Exposed! - Relleb Very easy and pleasant transaction. I love this watch, and although owning many other watches, this is the one I wear day and night. Rolex began its GMT-Master story in 1955 with its very first pilot watch made for Pan Am Airlines, the reference 6542. These variations are typically referred to as MK1 through MK8 (often appearing as MKI to MKVIII). affiliated with Rolex S.A., Rolex USA, or any other brand listed on its website. Hi Paul, I so understand your attachment to your watch as my Father gave me a Red Sea Dweller as a graduation present from High School in 1977. Vintage Rolex Model: 5513 Year: 1968 Serial number: 24xxxxx Reference: C03406 Case: Show . Yet, it has been reported that there are some examples of LumiNova lume on T<25 marked dials. Its had a Rolex Jubilee bracelet on it since one of the original bracelets clasp prongs broke off, the expansion pieces bent, and the flip-lock lost in the early 80s. The serial number is located behind where the band connects to the body of the watch, on the six o'clock side. On the bracelets some good info there and I had forgot that the early ones came on rivet both Europe and US also many of the late 60s and early seventies had the year stamped on the blades too eg 71. I bought my Red Rolex Submariner 1680 new at Casa Venegas, on Main Street on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands for $380 (duty and tax free) in February of 1975. YOU CAN PUT THIS WATCH NEXT TO A NEW WATCH AND IT LOOKS BRAND NEW PERFECT OYSTER BRACELET SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL AND QUICK SET DATE PRESSURE PROOF TO 300 FEET FEDEX PRIORITY OVERNIGHT SHIPPING ALWAYS Any watch that is returned and was delivered as described will be assessed a 20% restocking fee. Many years later the third dial came in and now the hands are white gold. When comparing the bezels of the real Rolex and the counterfeit watch, the font on the numbers is noticeably distinct. 1987. The picture represents the identical twin of the item we are offering for sale. We offer free FedEx Express shipping for any US purchase at our listed price. I paid C$900 on sale as the store was relocating. trademarks of 16700 made that standard across all examples. I have been an avid diver, both SCUBA and free for much of my 72 years, and this watch has been in virtually every ocean in the world. 1680 for a handful of years, collectors have identified at least seven dial variations (which well get the details below.) As the most counterfeited luxury watch brand, the quality of these fake watches has improved to a level previously unseen in the luxury world. Paul Altieri is a trusted and recognized authority in the watch industry with a proven track record of expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Serial Number Inside the Bezel ??? - Rolex Forums - Rolex Watch Forum The position of the Rolex crown on the clasp of each watch is distinct. In the photos below, you can see visible discrepancies on the dials of a real Rolex (left) and a fake Rolex (right). The Rolex GMT-Master made its debut in 1955, developed specifically for Pan Am pilots to keep track of two time zones. Since most of these abbreviations are in French, we have included the translations and abbreviation meanings below. Rolex Daytona Leather Strap - 10 For Sale on 1stDibs If so, click on the offer and look at the basic details and the watch description. However, it is interesting to note that Rolex already introduced the GMT-Master II model five years before the release of the GMT-Master 16700. Rolex finally pulled the plug on the ref. It was worn for several years until he decided it gave too much of a snobby vibe to his colleagues. One thing led to another and within a year Brad had his 4 oldest children involved in the family business listing items on ebay. sells. Another great feature of the GMT-Master 16700 that some vintage Rolex collectors will appreciate is the presence of lug holes, which offer a vintage tool watch aesthetic and make swapping out the bracelets for different straps much easier. revolving custom submariner diving bezel in 14k gold & stainless steel. Below is a chart that explains what material the watch is made of according to the last digit of the 5 and 6-digit model numbers: For instance, a Rolex Submariner reference 116610 denotes a stainless-steel model, while a Rolex Submariner reference 116619 represents a white gold model. Additionally, modern Rolex watches made in 2001 and later have a tiny laser-etched coronet/crown (LEC) on the glass at 6 oclock. We ship international shipments via FedEx International Priority. Generally speaking, tritium Rolex dials have SWISS T<25 under the 6 oclock marker while LumiNova dials simply have SWISS printed there. Interestingly, customers could also pay a little more to have the Rolex GMT-Master 16700 fitted with the Oyster bracelet ref. It was a z serial stainless steel Rolex Daytona. Since the GMT-Master 1675 was manufactured for over two decades, the model underwent plenty of updates over the years. The Rolex GMT-Master ref. The open font sixes we refer to as open sixes and it is one of the key ways to differentiate between the different variations. All of our shipments are fully insured with a private insurance company which covers lost, theft or damage during shipment. Originally, the dials used tritium for their lume, but around 1998, Rolex switched to modern LumiNova. The GMT-Master ref. 1. With that in mind, it is important to note that the calibers inside the ref. Genuine Rolex watches come with full metal casebacks that are fluted and screwed into the case, providing optimal water resistance. 116659SABR, Milgauss Ref. You might be surprised to learn that Rolex reference numbers can reveal quite a bit of information about a Rolex watch. Most Rolex watches work thanks to a perpetual rotor found inside. The crystal was replaced with new Acrylic crystal. The cyclops glass always protrudes above the crystal, like a bubbleit is never flat and never fitted under the crystal. This is an additional measure taken by Rolex to stay ahead of counterfeiters and establish another authenticity indicator on their timepieces. Should be along the 6 oclock region? After spending many hours searching for my first luxury watch on Chrono24, I ended up visiting their "Legal details" page and saw their headquarters , Rolex Datejust with Jubilee Bracelet, Image: Bert Buijsrogge, Breitling Top Time Chronograph, Image: Christopher Beccan, Rolex Reference Number, Image: Bert Buijsrogge. As a result, each Rolex serial number is unique (there are exceptions, as we'll see shortly). ROLEX MENS PRESIDENT DAY DATE 36mm 18238 18K GOLD DOUBLE QUICK BOX PAPERS. 93150 with the divers extension clasp normally destined for the Submariner watches of the era. Of course, this also requires the sources description to be accurate. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ref. Closed Sixes: The numeral 6 on closed sixes dials features a closed font. However, open up the back of any 16xx Datejust, and you will likely find the numbers 1570 looking back at you, and this is completely correct! And its discontinuation marked the end of the GMT-Master era and paved the way for the GMT-Master II to become Rolexs flagship pilots watch. 7 14k Yellow Gold. Although the Rolex brand only produced the red version of the Submariner ref. For instance, unlike other older GMT-Master references, it is still possible to buy a GMT-Master 16700 at around the $9,000 price point. ALL in excellent working condition and of the highest quality. This number is unique to every watch and can tell you when it was produced. their respective owners. 1680 appeared on the market, it was the first Rolex Submariner to feature a date complication breaking away from the original line of Submariner watches with time-only dials. MODEL # 16610. Bob's Watches is not affiliated with Rolex S.A., Rolex USA, or Or perhaps the watch is in good condition, but you want to know what year it was manufactured. However, MK2 dials will feature open sixes, and the top of the f does not extend as far as on MK1 Red Submariner dials. The red Submariner was never red again. While some later versions of the preceding ref. Complete with Box and Papers. 1680 ran on the Caliber 1575, which was based on the existing Caliber 1570 but with an added date function. Bob's On many Rolex watches, you'll find the serial numbers between the lugs on the side of the case at the 6 o'clock side, behind the bracelet. (ROLEX without the O) N, C, & S came out during the early to mid 1990's, W, T & U a little later. He was looking for a watch that could be used as a daily beater for surfing. His experience spans over 35 years and he has been published in numerous publications including Forbes, The NY Times, WatchPro, and Fortune Magazine. 1680 is also the only Submariner Date to ever feature a bidirectional timing bezel. In the authentic Rolex, the links are made of brushed metal all around the bracelet, whereas in the fake Rolex, only the outer links are brushed metal and the center links are polished, giving them a shinier appearance. Both of us were commercial divers although we never wore it diving. Check my website for more info on serial numbers and dates here: CHARLEY PHOTO OF THE WEEK: A day in the life of Charley includes waiting for a walk and wearing a blanket because its cold outside. This will make it easier for you to find the correct watch. All of our watches are authentic. For instance, fluted bezels on authentic Rolex watches are made of 18k gold. Although Rolexs servicer process can restore a watch to like-new condition, it is also known for its rigidity and many owner requests are not able to be accommodated. Rolex Mens 1940s. To the right of the emblem, you can find the words GENEVA and SWISS MADE engraved in small font. User Name: Remember Me? When did Rolex stop engraving serial numbers inside the bezel ring (if thats the right term, visible through the crystal along the bottom in between all the Rolex logos). However, rotating the bezel is when the magic happens turning the bezel until the time in another location is indicated by the 24-hour hand is how the GMT-Master transforms into a dual time watch. At the same time, you will also get an idea of its current market value. Listings sold at a lower price may have shipping charges added. Your additional comments and footnotes help make our blog a more complete resource for our readers! Serial #340xxx, I still have it. Bob's When Rolex released the Submariner 1680, it was outfitted with what we now refer to as fat font bezels because of their thicker numbers. By Rolex. Rolex Inside Bezel - 47 For Sale on 1stDibs We offer watch service to our customers at a fraction of the price watch manufacturers charge. and/or Treat them like the artifacts they are. I was 18 and that Tool watch was given to me as I started my University studies. Bob's Watches / Rolex Blog / Watch Review. Bob's Watches / Rolex Blog / Buying Guides. 6 Platinum. Enter the brand and model if available into the search bar. 1680 with dials that featured the SUBMARINER name in red. 1988 1997: Tritium, SWISS T<25 marking, Variant: LumiNova with SWISS T<25 marking. User Name: Remember Me? *Banners Feet First: The Red Submariner 1680 will always display a depth rating. Additionally, MK1 Red Submariner dials will feature closed sixes. Brief History of the Rolex GMT-Master Collection, Stainless Steel, Gold, or Two-Tone Steel/Gold, Matte with Painted Indexes or Glossy with White Gold Applied Indexes, Fresh Finds Luxury Watch Auction: Iconic Watches of Hollywood, 1990s Rolex Watches Ultimate Buying Guide. The early years of production (until late 2004) saw Rolex packaging the 16610LV models in the green leather boxes (code 64.00.02) and included a holographic punched paper certificate, chronometre tag, swing tag, anchor, bezel protector (often retained by the retailer), Rolex Submariner 'cave diver' booklet, Your Rolex Oyster booklet, translation booklet, green wallet and calendar card. That watch will certainly never be worth less than what you paid for it! DOP 10/2007 so I would said late 2007. Just on 50 years oldIt has been in all the major oceans as well as the Dead Sea in Jordan and the Fly River in Papua. By Rolex. Whats more, this is also where you will often find its water resistance (e.g., 200m) or other special features (e.g., Omegas Co-Axial escapement). Click here for our Ultimate Buying guide on the Rolex GMT-Master. This is a distinctive characteristic of Rolex watches, as you can observe it on each hour marker, as well as on the hour, minute, and seconds hands of an authentic Rolex, but it is not present on the replica. The blue and red bezel is officially known as the BLRO (bleu/rouge or blue/red) but more commonly known as the Pepsi, The black bezel is officially known as the LN (lunette noir or black bezel). He wore it every day as I have done and still do. 1968 Rolex - 46 For Sale on 1stDibs Oh yeah, it still looks Fantastic! Red Rolex Submariner 1680 Ultimate Guide | Bob's Watches 16700 with a handful of developments such as sapphire crystal, a dial with applied white gold indexes, and a new movement. It also had the now-established crown guards around the winding crown and a black aluminum insert fitted in its bidirectional timing bezel. Now the details come into play. Rolex Serial Number Inside Bezel. However, the Red Submariner with its characteristic red name on the dial was only produced for the first part of the ref. Serial Number Inside the Bezel ??? - Rolex Forums - Rolex Watch Forum Not only did the two-tone bezel help to differentiate between night and day hours in the second time zone, but the blue and red colorway also became a signature design trait of the GMT-Master watch. He is widely considered a pioneer in the industry for bringing transparency and innovation to a once-considered stagnant industry. 116710BLNR, Submariner Date Ref. Triplock winding crowns always have three dots below the coronet symbol, regardless of the watchs material. Please leave your valid email address below. This is especially important for fans of vintage watches with original parts. Hopefully, the market picks up on their value, the red sub price stagnated for so so long. More than four decades later, the Swiss watchmaker concluded that chapter with its last GMT-Master watch the ref. What sets this apart from other warranties such as Rolex is that they can take 60-90 days or more and they make you pay to ship the watch to their service center. 1575 movements). Unlike the six original Red Submariner dials, MK8 dials do not use tritium; therefore they do not include the telltale Swiss-T<25 text under the six oclock hour marker. Its advisable to have more than one match so that you dont go looking in the wrong direction in the next steps. SERIAL # RANDOM SCRAMBLED. Other than those two modifications, it just needed normal servicing and cleaning. I think I need to find another watch that means the same so they can both have that experience of giving for their sons. 8 18k Yellow Gold. As was the norm for the era, the GMT-Master 16700 is fitted with an aluminum bezel insert. sells. Brad quickly went from running a 1-man business locally to running a full family business servicing the entire world. The length of the reference number indicates the general age of the watch. To see it, you have to remove the band. The lugs on the genuine Rolex appear thicker and more substantial compared to the skinnier, slender, and tapered lugs on the replica. Pip or Pearl Save Search. Knowing the signs of how to spot a fake Rolex can be particularly helpful when shopping for pre-owned watches. Therefore, if searching for this characteristic on a specific Rolex watch, it is advisable to investigate when the LEC feature was added to that particular model. subsidiaries. only sells pre-owned watches and provides its own warranties on the watches it This is the latest model before the 118238 came out. . What are Rolex Lug Holes? A Complete Guide - Millenary Watches Consequently, its challenging to come across a Red Submariner with its original fat font bezel and it certainly isnt a make-it-or-break-it factor when considering buying the watch. Rolex watches made from 2005 onward will have the word 'Rolex' repeated around the inner bezel, with the brand logo at the 12 o'clock position and the serial number at 6 o'clock. Meters before feet. Additionally, it lacks lume material, rendering it unable to glow in the dark like the authentic Rolex bezels pip. I have no need to sell at this time, and it would take a lot of money to convince me to part with it . Watches Rolex is, after all, one of the most counterfeited brands in the world. A way to identify a fake Rolex is by observing its date feature. A real Rolex watch features engravings on the inner ring of its bezel, also known as the rehaut. Rolex and Serial Number Inside Bezel - Rolex Forums - Rolex Watch Forum 16700 features the familiar dial layout comprised of luminous Mercedes-style hands and a mix of rectangular, circular, and triangular luminous indexes. Category Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches. How to perform the check step 1. It was new at a local small jeweler. Chrono24 Filters Search for your watch now. Upon comparing these two watches, it is apparent that there are a couple of visible differences in the bracelet links of each. On the replica, the entire crown is embedded within the center link, and there is no part of it overhanging the edge as there is on the genuine Rolex. Observing quality of the engraving The data-book explained An introduction to the databook Rolex serial number lookup table Rolex model numbers Where to find the model number Bob's Watches is an independent watch dealer and is not sponsored by, associated with If this is the case and you still want to know exactly which edition you have so you can determine its value or age, there are a few more steps you will have to take. The links on the authentic Rolex are thicker and have a more robust appearance, whereas the links on the replica are noticeably thinner and more slender. Serial Numbers: The serial number is located opposite of the model number at 6 o'clock between the lugs and under the bracelet. The watch and all the parts seems to match (overall wear similar in every part and seemingly never polished or brushed).