How to spot a fake Rolex

A Rolex watch is synonymous with luxury, precision, and Swiss craftsmanship. However, the fake market is constantly growing and knowing how to distinguish a genuine Rolex from a fake can be difficult. In this guide, we will explore some of the key features to recognize an original Rolex.

1. Warranty certificate

Each Rolex is sold with an official guarantee certificate, in paper or plastic card format (in use since 2006). This certificate, issued directly by the Swiss maison, certifies the authenticity of the watch and is provided by the authorized dealer at the time of purchase.

However, in cases where a watch comes from private collections or is very old, the guarantee may not be available. In these cases, the trusted dealer should provide additional reassurances about the authenticity of the piece.

2. The box

An authentic Rolex always comes with a carefully crafted box. The box is usually made of leather and wood, with an engraved logo and precise finishing. Rolex boxes have undergone changes over the years, but they always maintain an impeccable level of quality. If the box appears defective or of poor quality, it could be a fake.

3. COSC and Swiss movement

All Rolex movements have the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification, which guarantees chronometric precision. To verify this characteristic, you can observe the movement of the seconds hand: an authentic Rolex has a fluid and continuous movement, thanks to the frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

For a complete check, it is necessary to open the case back and check the movement, an operation that should only be performed by an expert.

4. Serial number and reference

The serial number of a Rolex is engraved between the lugs of the case at 6 o'clock, while the reference number is at 12 o'clock. Since around 2005, the serial number has also been engraved on the flange (the inside of the bezel) at 6 o'clock, allowing it to be verified without having to remove the bracelet.

The serial number allows you to trace the year of production back to 2010, when Rolex began using random numbering. Any inconsistencies in the engraved numbers could indicate a fake.

5. The dial

The dial is one of the most difficult elements to replicate. In authentic Rolexes, the details are perfect: the typeface is uniform, with no smudges or errors in the spacing between characters. Careful observation, preferably with a magnifying glass, can reveal any imperfections.

6. The date display

In models with a date display, Rolex uses a magnifying glass called a “Cyclops” that magnifies the date number by 2.5 times. The number must fill the entire panel and appear perfectly sharp. If the number is not magnified or is blurry, the watch may be a fake.

7. Waterproof

All genuine Rolexes are waterproof. Submariner models, for example, are designed to withstand great depths. If a waterproof test fails or the watch is damaged, it is likely a fake.

8. General details

The overall quality of a Rolex is evident in every detail: from the finishing of the case to the precision of the bracelet, to the weight of the watch, which is always higher than that of fakes. An authentic Rolex will never have burrs, misaligned parts or poor materials.

What to do if you have doubts

If you have a Rolex and have doubts about its authenticity, the best advice is to contact a trusted expert. A professional will be able to perform all the necessary checks and reassure you about the value of your watch.

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