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Behind a wealthy historical past of greater than 115 years, Rolexes have been worn by tens of millions of individuals. Other than the aesthetic facet or the color, seen to the bare eye, there may be now one distinction between two apparently comparable fashions: the reference numbers. However what do they imply ?

First launched within the 2000s, this method of six-digit codes positioned contained in the watch lets you distinguish a real Rolex from a counterfeit. However as soon as the authenticity has been verified, these numbers point out the numerous properties of your timepiece. Let’s break down the which means of those numbers so that you can have a look at the following time you purchase a Rolex.

The primary quantity won’t allow you to a lot to know extra about your watch, as it would most likely be 1. For the reason that launch of this method, the primary systematically begins the mix with a purpose to go away room for the long run Rolex references that will probably be launched within the subsequent few years.

The second quantity will solely provide you with a slight trace: it matches the Rolex calibre used. Two selections: 1, which signifies that the newest model of the calibre has not but been put in, or 2, which coincides with the newest model.

For the remaining, it will get extra sophisticated! The subsequent “two” digits additionally have in mind the primary two digits already used, to point the gathering to which the Rolex belongs. A mix of two to 4 digits: 15 for a Date for instance, or 1142 for an Explorer. The references are exact and probably the most fastidious of collectors should know every Rolex assortment on the wrist.

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The penultimate quantity applies to the character of the bezel. Starting from 0 to 7, excluding the 5 (akin to a pyramidal bezel), every quantity defines whether or not the bezel is domed, rotating or fluted. And for the final digit of the reference, you’ll know which supplies had been used to fabricate the watch: white gold, platinum, metal… One other vary of prospects lined by a code that solely Rolex fans know. If the collection of numbers ends, just a few letters come to the top of this collection. They merely attest the color and the valuable stones used.

Allow us to apply this to the well-known Cosmograph Daytona mannequin in yellow gold. We are able to learn the next reference quantity: 116508. A variety of info may be gleaned from it: designed after the yr 2000 (first no 1) and never but geared up with the newest Rolex calibre (second no 1), it has a easy bezel (quantity 0) and is product of 18K yellow gold (quantity 8). A assure of high quality and rigour for Rolex, which contributes to creating every mannequin distinctive. It isn’t for nothing that the Swiss model stays no 1 in luxurious watchmaking on the planet !

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Featured photograph : © Rolex