M and Z serial # Subs

[Norm]

I just bought a TT sub 16613 (3.5 weeks ago). I didn't realize there were different models of this until reading all the great info here on TRF. I apologize for what must be a Rolex 101 question but can someone tell me the difference between the Z and the M model? I checked and mine is the Z. Did I buy last year's model or does every year come in both of these models?

Thanks in advance,

Norm

[JCLZ]

There has been that discussion before. I learn that M and Z series are being made at the same time. M series is the latest, but Rolex still producing z series. Other theory is that Rolex shipped z series together with m series, but m series still being the latest. Here in the forum is said that Rolex has the different parts of the watch ensemble and that is why a z series might have the legend rolexrolex inside. Not all z series has the legend rolexrolex but all m series have them. Does your Z series have the rolexrolex legend inside the dial?

[Tools]

"M" is the latest series of serial numbers that Rolex is producing, but they are probably also still producing "Z" models as well.

Late model "Z" will have the Rolex inscribed rehaut, but early model "M" may not....

Other than that, there is no difference between them...

[Norm]

Mine does not have the rolexrolex legend (rolex inscribed rehaut) inside the dial.

[Tools]

Some folks prefer the clean look of the models with a non-etched rehaut..... (I am one of those)...

I'll bet it's a beauty.....how about some pictures..

[TARDIS]

If you look at this link you will see that Rolex do not bring out changes in series to coincide with any calendar year:
http://www.oysterinfo.de/en/detailin...mern/index.php

The 'Z' series ceased production shortly after the introduction of the 'M' series which was around August/September 2007. There might have been a production overlap with certain models of high demand, but no more than about 2 or 3 weeks at the most. Shipping consignments to retailers on a global basis probably would have included both Z and M around that time. Rolex dealers throughout the world may have stocks of both series and obviously wish to move the older Z before the M. They can do this by either straight selling to customers or selling in batches to reputable grey watch buyers at a reduced price to clear stock. The grey dealers then sell at their price, still making profit.

If I were to buy a brand new Rolex model today from an authorized dealer at MSRP, I would only accept an 'M' series. If the dealer was trying to sell me a Z series watch, I would expect him/her to inform me of this fact, and offer discount because it was NOS (New Old Stock).

When intending to pay several thousand dollars for a watch, it is prudent to shop around among AD's.

Cheers
Steve

[Norm]

Thanks. It is a beauty and I love it. I've posted pictures already, albeit poor ones compared to the expert photographers here on TRF but I'll try to get a couple more on tomorrow. Thank you very much for the information.

[Norm]

Steve,

Thank you. While the AD did not disclose this to me he did charge me $7045 which was discounted from the MSRP of $7800 and within one hour of me leaving the store they got notification that the new MSRP price was $9050 so I don't think I did too bad, all things considered.

[vh_bu98]

Originally Posted by Norm

Steve,

Thank you. While the AD did not disclose this to me he did charge me $7045 which was discounted from the MSRP of $7800 and within one hour of me leaving the store they got notification that the new MSRP price was $9050 so I don't think I did too bad, all things considered.

For that price, it's not a big deal if it's a Z or a M. For me, it was about the engraved rehaute. My Z, that I got on Jan 31st, has it and that's what matters to me.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

I agree. Let's see some pics of that beauty!

[padi56]

Basically the Sub has changed very little since 1989 sure a very few minor cosmetic changes like non lug holes and IMHO the ridicules chapter ring branding Etc.Suppose the best all round change was the Introduction of the SEL bracelet,but all others very very minor.The most important thing the movement has not changed for almost two decades.

[mickeydainish]

From what I have read on TRF... no biggie! I would not be worried... Just post pics!! :-)

[TDH]

The chapter ring branding might be the difference, but hey you got it at the old price. Congrats and thank your lucky stars!

[Norm]

Thank you all. Pics hopefully later today (if I can sneak away from Easter Dinner).

[MartinK]

So...Do all the "M" variants have the Rolex Branded Rehaut??? In which case, are all the nodate "M" Subs having the COSC inscription on the face as well as the RBR ???

[Terry Newton]

Originally Posted by MartinK

So...Do all the "M" variants have the Rolex Branded Rehaut??? In which case, are all the nodate "M" Subs having the COSC inscription on the face as well as the RBR ???

My understanding is that you can buy "M" series non-date subs w/o the COSC branding but they come with the rehaute branding. I may be wrong but seem to believe some have been posted for sale that way here.

Terry Newton

[S2000_driver]

My M-serial sub date does not have the inscription. The earliest M watches in the LA area did not have it.