Question about newly purchased DJ

[rolex32000]

Hey guys, I'm Matt. New to the Rolex world. I've been doing research for quite sometime into various DateJust's & yesterday I purchased a pre-owned one from Sumpter's, in Charlotte, NC. It's a SS w/ 18k white gold fluted bezel, jubilee bracelet, w/ a tapestry stick dial. We had removed the band prior to purchased & noted it was a 16234 with an F serial number. Apparently this watch was made in 2003-2004 range. Jeweler was asking $3675, but I walked out the door for $2900 + tax. Looks to be in beautiful shape & seems extremely understated & classy. I did not have the caseback taken off, as everything else seemed status quo with the watch & I believe Sumpter's has been in business for quite sometime. In any event, I'm a bit concerned with the fact that I cannot locate the micro-etched crown on the lower half of the crystal. I've read around that this feature was instituted sometime in 2002, however I've also read notes that there may be some 2003 or 2004 watches that do not have this feature. I am not sure what to think. I have used a magnifying piece to try & locate, but without any success. Any thoughts? I doubt I was duped, but you never know. Thanks in advance.

- Matt

[nko51]

The etched crown is sometimes hard to see, you need at least a 10X loupe preferrably a 20X, proper lighting and tilting of the crystal at the base of the 6 o'clock position to spot the crown etching.

[Peter Messmore]

Matt,I am not sure if the DJ came with the LEC,some of the other sports models do,started early 2000.Someone else will come along to help more,Peter

[Ed Rooney]

I think it should have the crown. It took me about a week to find it on my D-serial sub. My y-serial sub and ladies DJ (older than your F) had it.

If it is sunny, point the 12 o'clock coronet at the sun, then tilt it down a bit (10-20 degrees) until the sun hits it just right. It will usually pop out. It is very tricky to see for the first time. It's easier to see on the fakes.

Post a pic!

[CPCC]

Congrats and welcome. Now for some pictures please......

[S/SOnly]

Love the Tapestry... Congrats on a fine time piece.

Wear it in good health and spirit!

[egzbuen]

congrats, pics please

[rolex32000]

Thanks guys. I found the crown finally, extremely small! Here's some pictures I've attached. Just grabbed a buddy's camera, apologize for the picture quality ahead of time.

- Matt

[Tools]

Good looking watch..

I can see why you had trouble finding it against that white tapestry dial..

Most folks do not realise exactly how tiny it really is..........glad you are now assured

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Welcome to TRF!

Gorgeous DJ!

Thanks for sharing the pics!

[cocopeep]

Wow, looks nice for the price!

[JBat]

Good looking DJ, Matt. I had the same trouble finding the LEC on my GMT when I first got it. One good way is to take a macro shot of it with a camera.

Welcome to TRF!

[rolex32000]

Thanks gents! Appreciated.

- Matt