Rolex, a name synonymous with luxury and precision, produces a vast array of timepieces, each meticulously crafted and bearing a unique identifier: its model number. Understanding Rolex model numbers is crucial for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone looking to verify the authenticity or specific features of a Rolex watch. This article delves deep into the world of Rolex model numbers, providing a comprehensive overview and addressing common queries related to identification and lookup.
Model Numbers: The Key to Identification
Rolex engraves or assigns a 4-6 digit model number to every watch type it manufactures. This number, often overlooked, serves as a vital piece of information, acting as a fingerprint for the specific model. Unlike the serial number, which identifies an individual watch, the model number identifies the *type* of watch. Finding this number is relatively straightforward; it's typically engraved between the lugs – the small curved sections connecting the watch case to the bracelet or strap – on the side of the case. You might need a loupe or magnifying glass to clearly see the small, precisely engraved numbers.
The model number provides a wealth of information, allowing you to determine the:
* Specific Model: The number instantly pinpoints the exact model within Rolex's extensive catalog. For instance, a 16610 denotes a specific generation of the Submariner, while a 116610LN represents a later iteration.
* Case Material: While not always explicitly stated in the number itself, the model number often implies the case material (e.g., stainless steel, yellow gold, platinum).
* Movement: The model number can indirectly indicate the type of movement used in the watch (automatic, quartz, etc.).
* Complications: The presence of complications like a date window, chronograph functions, or GMT hand can be inferred from the model number.
* Year of Production (Indirectly): While the model number doesn't directly state the production year, it can help narrow down the timeframe based on the model's introduction and discontinuation dates. This information is often coupled with the serial number for precise dating.
Rolex Model Numbers Chart (Illustrative Examples)
Creating a comprehensive chart encompassing every Rolex model number is practically impossible due to the sheer volume of models produced over the years. However, we can illustrate the concept with a few examples:
| Model Number | Model Name | Case Material | Approximate Year of Introduction | Key Features |
|--------------|-----------------|--------------------|---------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| 116610LN | Submariner | Stainless Steel | 2010 | Ceramic bezel, Superluminova markers |
| 16610 | Submariner | Stainless Steel | 1988 | Aluminum bezel, Tritium markers |
| 116519LN | Daytona | Platinum | 2000 | Ceramic bezel, black dial |
| 214270 | Explorer | Stainless Steel | 2011 | 39mm case, updated movement |
| 16710 | GMT-Master II | Stainless Steel | 1988 | Aluminum bezel, GMT function |
| 116710BLNR | GMT-Master II | Stainless Steel | 2013 | Ceramic bezel, "Batman" color combination |
Rolex Model Number Lookup: Resources and Strategies
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