Laser Etched Crown (LEC) start dates??

[Coolshades]

Can someone please direct me to a reference that shows when Rolex started using laser etched crowns on their different models? I am striking out with Google searches and searches on this form. Specifically did they start on all models in the same year or were they phased in on different models like the maxi dial and solid link bracelets etc.

I am asking because I recently was offered a Daytona by an established pre-owned dealer with a 2008 serial number. It did not have an LEC. There were some smaller issues with the dial that raised my suspicion too so I did not purchase the watch. I purchased a new GMT II from an AD back in 2008 with a 2007 serial number and that watch has the laser etched crown so I thought the Daytona should have it as well.

Also along the same lines does anyone know if you send an older Rolex watch in to the factory service center for crystal replacement, will it come back with an LEC even though it did not have one when it was originally made?

Thanks for the help!

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Coolshades

Can someone please direct me to a reference that shows when Rolex started using laser etched crowns on their different models? I am striking out with Google searches and searches on this form. Specifically did they start on all models in the same year or were they phased in on different models like the maxi dial and solid link bracelets etc.

I am asking because I recently was offered a Daytona by an established pre-owned dealer with a 2008 serial number. It did not have an LEC. There were some smaller issues with the dial that raised my suspicion too so I did not purchase the watch. I purchased a new GMT II from an AD back in 2008 with a 2007 serial number and that watch has the laser etched crown so I thought the Daytona should have it as well.

Also along the same lines does anyone know if you send an older Rolex watch in to the factory service center for crystal replacement, will it come back with an LEC even though it did not have one when it was originally made?

Thanks for the help!

It was from 2001 Laser Etched Hologram In Crystal was started but not on all models at the same time but a 2008 Daytona should have one.Now watches without a date feature the LEC is not always at the 6 o'clock position, and at one if crystal was a service replacement it had a S thought the LEC. But that was stopped a few years back crystal replacements now just plain LEC.

[Jocke]

Rolex start with the laserlogo in 1999 and the replacement crystal have S in the coronet.

Here is something I have put together a few years ago.

Click here to find out

[Coolshades]

Thanks for the info. That is very helpful

[Art 1]

The earliest I saw new was a late A series lady DJ. I think that was the first model to have it. I bought that in 1999 I think.

[sillo]

Originally Posted by Jocke

Rolex start with the laserlogo in 1999 and the replacement crystal have S in the coronet.

As far as I know the S has been done away with and service crystals now have the normal LEC again.