Among the exquisite brands of luxury watches, Rolex remains one of the most valuable and demanded ones. Thus, its popularity defines it as an object that is easy to forge by scammers. It is, therefore, important that anyone will buy a Rolex watch will know how to authenticate that watch for whatever purpose he or she will have it for. In this guide, you will be learning the key measures you should take so that you only purchase an authentic Rolex, especially this timeless Rolex Submariner model.
1. Examine the Weight
Therefore, and authentic Rolex watch comes as a heavyweight material, as compared to a fake, which is usually crafted from cheaper and comparatively lightweight materials. Take the watch in your hand and try to compare its weight. Further, a real Rolex is supposed to be heavy; the watch should feel heavy in your hand, and this is the reality with the fake one.
2. Check the Engravings and Markings
Thus, the logo of the watches is engraved accurately, and all the signs put on the watches indicates this fact. Look for the following details:
- Serial and Model Numbers: Located at the space between the two lugs at the bracelet side. They should be clean with fine details which are well engraved.
- Rolex Crown Logo: This should be located at the top of the dial at around the 12 o’clock position and, in the latest models, inscribed beneath the crystal at the 6 o’clock position.
- Case Back: Authentic Rolex models are characterized by the smooth back, although there are models with a back opening. If you notice engravings or logos on the case back, this is some of the signs that the replica is fake, unless in the case of the Sea-Dweller.
3. Inspect the Dial
The deal is one of the most critical areas to inspect:
- Cyclops Lens: The lens extending over the date on authentic Rolex watches enlarges the date 2. 5 times. Counterfeits may have a lesser optical power, that is usually represented by a smaller number.
- Lettering: The styles of the letters on the dial should be clean and the spacing between the letters of the font should be equally correct. It is important that there are no spelling mistakes; Presence of one or two words means that one needs to be careful.
- Lume: Rolex uses high quality luminous material. Investigate the brightness and the time of glowing in the dark.
4. Analyze the Movement
Rolex watches are known for their precision and smooth second-hand movement:
- Smooth Sweeping Motion: That of the second hand should be smooth and free from any jerk.
- Mechanical Movement: The real Rolex watches have mechanical movements, whether they are automatic or fully manual. There’s a particular tick that is consistently produced by fake watches – if the watch is ticking like a quartz movement, it probably is a fake.
5. Analyze the Bracelet & Clasp
The bracelet and clasp of a Rolex watch are also clear signs of authenticity:The bracelet and clasp of a Rolex watch are also clear signs of authenticity:
Quality of the Bracelet: The lid should have smooth, well-fixed handles and thick and strongly made handles. Fakes are characteristically ambiguous, and their links are sometimes blank and have an unfit look.
Clasp: It probably contains a Rolex logo, and it should be fairly easy to open and
close the clasp. Auction looks very professional and perfect, the text and sign must be clear and easily readable, engraving on the clasp must also be very precise.
6. Look for Micro-Engravings
Rolex has added micro-engraved details to newer models for added security:Rolex has added micro-engraved details to newer models for added security:
Rehaut Engraving: The rehaut or the inner bezel should have repeated logo very around it, but a serial number at 6 o’clock position only. This engraving should be sharp and clean.
7. Test the Water Resistance
This is very evident in watches like the Submariner models that people often associate with the Rolex Company. It is not recommended to perform this test individually; however, a trustworthy watchmaker can check the water resistance of the watch. For instance, the Submariner model should be able to go up to a depth of 300 meters.
8. Use a Loupe
Using a jeweler’s loupe can help you inspect the finer details:
- Micro-Engravings: You should closely look at any possible repeated text and, of course, look at the rehaut.
- Dial Details: Pay attention to any minutes, hours, and marks imprinted on the dial, hands, and markers.
9. Seek Professional Authentication
Last but not the least, whenever it is hard to decide, do not hesitate to consult a specialist. Only the certified watchmakers or the authorized Rolex dealers will have the required instruments and knowledge to provide correct information about the authenticity of a Rolex watch.
The Rolex Submariner: The process of Authentication: A Case Study
The replica business is driven by successful brands and the Rolex Submariner is one of them since it is highly counterfeited. Here are some Submariner-specific tips:
- Cerachrom Bezel: The Modern Submariners incorporate ceramics into a bezel, and it makes for a watch that is almost impossible to scratch and is extremely brilliant.
- Triplock Crown Seal: The emblem of the Submariner’s crown must have three dots below the Rolex – the Trip lock triple waterproofed.
Depth Rating: Check to make sure that the depth rating of the dial (For instance “300m/1000ft”) is engraved the right way and to the right set of orientations.
Final Thoughts
It would take a layman the better part of a day to tell that the piece of wrist wear they are admiring is counterfeit. By observing the weight, the dial, the movement, the case back, the serial and/or model numbers, the bracelet, the crown, and the sound, you can drastically lower the chances of buying a fake. However, do not forget that the focus should be paid to the vendor who you buy your products from in order to be sure they are original. Whenever there is a doubt, one should seek professional verification to secure the money that is invested. For those interested in diving deeper into the world of Rolex, see more about Rolex Submariner and other iconic models to expand your knowledge and appreciation for these timeless timepieces.