Rolex gives a specific identification number to correspond with each model, known as the Model Number or Case Reference Number. This special identification number provides a complete description of the features of the particular model of Rolex watch. This is true for both the 5-digit and the 6-digit Model Reference Numbers. This number can be found engraved between the lugs at the 12 O'clock position and inside the case back.
Features of the 5-digit Model Number
In a 5-digit model number, engraved on all Rolex watches manufactured between the mid 1980s and 2000, the first 3 digits describe the type of the watch; the second from the last digit indicates the type of the bezel and the last digit indicates the type of the material used in making the watch (case and bezel). Let us further understand this with the help of an example: The Case Reference Number “16760” indicates a stainless steel Rolex GMT-Master II model featuring a rotating bezel. All these features of the watch can be identified by looking at the first three digits of the Model Number and finding out the model type that these digits indicate. Similarly, the charts containing the digits, the corresponding bezel style and the type of material indicated by them will help you to learn about the other features of the Rolex watch.
Features of the 6-digit Model Number
The 6-digit Case Reference Number or Model Number started appearing on Rolex watches after the year 2000. The 6-digit Model Number has the same features as the 5-digit Model Number, which was engraved on earlier models. The only difference is that there is an extra digit "1" before the previous 5-digit number. As a result, the features remain the same. In a 6-digit Model Number, the last digit indicates the material type; the second to last digit indicates the type of the bezel and the first 4 digits indicate the model type. Of the first 4 digits, the last three are same as those given in the above chart. Only you find an additional "1" before the three digits. For instance, the 5-digit model number, "18138" indicates the Rolex Day-Date model in 18k yellow gold with a fluted bezel. However, if the same model is produced after 2000, its Case Reference Number would be "118138". As a result, the same reference chart can be used for both the five digit reference numbers and the six digit reference numbers.
For The Full article please visit the Melrose Jewelers Rolex Information & Education section at : http://www.melrosejewelers.co.uk/content/rolex_education_rolex_model_number_features.htm
Features of the 5-digit Model Number
In a 5-digit model number, engraved on all Rolex watches manufactured between the mid 1980s and 2000, the first 3 digits describe the type of the watch; the second from the last digit indicates the type of the bezel and the last digit indicates the type of the material used in making the watch (case and bezel). Let us further understand this with the help of an example: The Case Reference Number “16760” indicates a stainless steel Rolex GMT-Master II model featuring a rotating bezel. All these features of the watch can be identified by looking at the first three digits of the Model Number and finding out the model type that these digits indicate. Similarly, the charts containing the digits, the corresponding bezel style and the type of material indicated by them will help you to learn about the other features of the Rolex watch.
Features of the 6-digit Model Number
The 6-digit Case Reference Number or Model Number started appearing on Rolex watches after the year 2000. The 6-digit Model Number has the same features as the 5-digit Model Number, which was engraved on earlier models. The only difference is that there is an extra digit "1" before the previous 5-digit number. As a result, the features remain the same. In a 6-digit Model Number, the last digit indicates the material type; the second to last digit indicates the type of the bezel and the first 4 digits indicate the model type. Of the first 4 digits, the last three are same as those given in the above chart. Only you find an additional "1" before the three digits. For instance, the 5-digit model number, "18138" indicates the Rolex Day-Date model in 18k yellow gold with a fluted bezel. However, if the same model is produced after 2000, its Case Reference Number would be "118138". As a result, the same reference chart can be used for both the five digit reference numbers and the six digit reference numbers.
For The Full article please visit the Melrose Jewelers Rolex Information & Education section at : http://www.melrosejewelers.co.uk/content/rolex_education_rolex_model_number_features.htm