Newb question: Random Serial

[Argentius]

I am looking around at buying my first serious timepiece - I have encountered a number of ads for a Rolex that say "random serial."

Can anyone tell me what this means?

Is it because certain serial numbers are considered especially collectible or desirable? What am I missing?

Thanks!

[SPACE-DWELLER]

This Sticky over the serial numbers and letters might be useful...

Rolex probably introduced the random serial number system to stop people like us speculating and trying to figure out when a Rolex was manufactured. Now, only Rolex knows when it was made..

Among the modern Rolex watches, I'd say that one serial/letter is not more desirable that the other.

[dddrees]

The serial number is completely random and has been for a little while now. Used to be you could approximate pretty close within a year or two when a watch was manufactured by the case stamping, but with a random serial that's no longer the case. Whether it is random or not, no matter it's still a Rolex.

[subtona]

1 point to know:

since around 1987 the serial numbers began with a letter and were followed by 6 digits for a total of 7 characters.

the newer random style have 8 characters and may or may not begin with a letter.

[kilyung]

Don't get hung up on serials. They're mostly the same watch. It only becomes pertinent if you have no idea about the service history in which case I wouldn't buy it.

[Argentius]

Interesting, thanks!

I am trying to learn as much as possible, but, for a complete watch newb, wow, there is so much.

Appreciate it.

[joe100]

If you're interested in learning just read read read. Everything you'd ever need to know about the main Rolex models is here; the obscure ones are lurking around as well. Search keywords by title and sort the threads by the greatest number of replies. It's fun and you will wind up with information much faster

[77T]

Serial numbers mean something to hardcore collectors who want to own a watch that may have been the "first in line" or "last one out the door". Think of it like a classic car - one with "matching numbers" is more rare than others of same vintage.

For example, in the day, a rare model and a serial number approximated a year - when that is cross-referenced to the proper bracelet code and clasp code and original dial, then it might be an iconic Rolex.