How do I Tell if My Rolex is Fake?

The company that has become Rolex began in 1905 as Wilsdorf and Davis Ltd, taking its present name in 1915. Rolex is known for its highly-accurate luxury watches. The fame and popularity of the brand has led to the manufacturing of fakes. There are specific traits to look for on every part of the watch to determine whether a watch is a genuine Rolex or not.

Watch Face and Case Back

A genuine Rolex will have durable and scratch resistant sapphire crystal covering the watch face, while a fake will usually have glass. Glass will show signs of wear quickly and has a different sound when tapped. Micro-etching of the crown logo in the crystal face will identify a true Rolex. If the watch has a clear case back or an engraved case back, its most likely a counterfeit.

Watch Hands

The second hand moves around smoothly on a genuine Rolex. Ticking once every second is an indication of a fake. A real Rolex ticks very softly and quickly at eight ticks a second. Hands on a counterfeit will often be the wrong size and shape for the model.

Serial Numbers

This is the most foolproof way to identify the legitimacy of a Rolex. Serial numbers and case reference numbers will be found on the side of the case in very fine lines. They catch the light like diamond-cut edges. The same numbers will often be used many times on different counterfeit watches and will have a sandy, acid-etched appearance. If there are no numbers the watch is a guaranteed fake.

References

• Melrose Jewelers: History of the Rolex Watch Company
• Jewelry Secrets: How To Spot A Fake Rolex Watch
• Quality Tyme: Rolex or Replica