How to Tell a Real Rolex From an Imitation
A Rolex is a high-quality timepiece with a high-price tag to match. It is no wonder that it has become a status symbol associated with wealth, success and luxury. Likewise, the highly-sought brand has also become a favorite for counterfeiters to imitate. A few small details can indicate whether the watch is real or fake. If you are seeking to invest in a real Rolex watch, the best piece of advice is to visit a reputable Rolex dealer -- a Rolex bought off the street is nothing more than an imitation. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Examine the case back. Clear case backs, or ones that allow you to see the inside the watch are not made by Rolex, and an engraved case back is an indication of a fake. Genuine Rolex watches will have a smooth case back. Also, look at the materials of the watch. If it has rubber or stainless-steel or plated metal, move on because you are looking at an imitation. Likewise, a real Rolex should feel heavy in your hand, accounting for the genuine metals used in the watch.
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Examine the hologram sticker. If a Rolex is new, it will be shipped from the factory with a three dimensional sticker on the case back. The sticker will be a hologram of the Rolex crown and have the watch's reference number stamped on it.
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Locate the serial and case reference number on the watch. This number is usually located between the lugs. A fake Rolex will have an acid etching of these numbers and as opposed to a genuine engraving.
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Look at the date feature. Only men's full-size watches have this feature. If it is a women's watch, you automatically know it is an imitation. Also, the magnification on a real Rolex is a 2.5 times magnification. Imitations generally will have a 1.5 times magnification. The date on a real Rolex should really pop out and will be made in 18K gold or platinum, never stainless-steel.
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Put the watch under water. A real Rolex will not change at all while a fake will usually leak water into the face of the watch.
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Tips & Warnings
Rolex has never produced Skeleton dial watches, the type of watch in which you can see the moving parts of the watch.
Rolex is a Swiss Company but has manufactured watches in other countries. However, they have never manufactured watches in China. A Chinese-made Rolex is an imitation.
Never buy a Rolex on the street.
Be wary of purchasing a Rolex over the Internet.
You should be allowed to inspect a Rolex before you purchase it and even a used Rolex should come with a warranty.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Watch image by Corneliu C from Fotolia.com
