- 1). Unscrew the back of the replica watch using the case back opener. The case back should be solid and not transparent. Flip the case back over and examine the sticker inside. Verify that it is holographic, using black lettering on the serial number.
- 2). Place the watch under a loupe. Closely examine the movement inside. Count the movement's jewels. You should see 27 jewels within. Less than this indicates a stock ETA movement, which is the biggest swiss movement supplier and is the most common one used in Rolex fakes. Expect to see 25 jewels or less on a replica.
- 3). Rotate the bezel on a Submariner model. Real pieces rotate clockwise only. Additionally, these bezels only have 120 clicks on a full rotation. Feel for solidity and "rightness" as the bezel engages each click.
- 4). Screw the case back on, and turn the watch face up. Place the watch back under the loupe. Examine the hands on the piece, ensuring that the minute hand is tapered at the end and is not flat.
- 5). Look at the date window. On an authentic Rolex watch, the date numerals fill the date window. The date bubble on a fake is rarely perfectly centered over the date window.
- 6). Unscrew the crown. Look for a small rubber gasket. If it is missing, you may have a replica.
- 7). Take off the lower watch band using the watch band removal tool. Look for an etching that says "R863698." Reference this number online. This is a common fake serial number used on replicas. Additionally, authentic pieces are acid etched and not engraved between the lugs.
- 8). Send the watch to Rolex for the ultimate verification. Take the opportunity for a full-service checkup and cleaning if the piece was pre-owned.
previous post