Reference Number Questions...

[Brad737]

Hello all,

I've been researching some older Rolexes, and I think a 2-tone GMT Master may be my next addition. I realize that MANY older watches have been "boogered" up, and obviously want a "correct" model. For instance, when looking at the Reference Number for GMTs, the SS model is Ref. 16750. The 2-tone GMT from that era was the 16753. But that doesn't tell me if that was the black and gold version or the Root Beer. Is there a comprehensive list somewhere?

Of course, that would also go for something like the DJ, which came with about 42,000 different dials.

Do any of you have some insight you can share?

Thanks,
Brad

[77T]

The 5 digit reference number alone won't tell you the dial or bezel color. There are many guides out on the Internet to help you decode reference numbers, for example see http://www.minus4plus6.com/numbers.htm

Model Numbers
On the older paper warranties (prior to 2006 and the plastic card warranty) there is a model number and a dial code. The warranties after 2006 just list the watch model code.

The model code that is both on the warranty as well as in catalogs breaks down as follows:

First three digits designates model on traditional Rolex models:

140 = Oyster Perpetual Air King and Submariner
142 = Oyster Perpetual Chronometer 34mm and Explorer
152 = Oyster Perpetual Date - Mens 34 mm
162 = Oyster Perpetual DateJust – Mens 36mm
165 = Explorer II
166 = Submariner – SeaDweller – Yachtmaster 40mm
167 = GMT Master II
170 = Oyster Quartz DateJust
189 = Oyster Perpetual Special Edition
190 = Oyster Quartz Day-Date
1165 Cosmograph Daytona
1182 Oyster Perpetual Day-Date
1183 Oyster Perpetual Day-Date Serti (With Diamonds)
After 2004-2006, the newer Rolex models have an extra 1 preceeding the model number. For example, a traditional, two-toned bezel GMT has a model number of 16710, but the newer super-cased, ceramic bezeled GMT is listed as a 116710 (extra preceeding 1).

The next digit is the bezel code. For example, a 16710 has a smooth/domed bezel. Professional watches are excluded from this list.

0 = Smooth/Domed
1 = Engine Turned
2 = Engraved
3 = Fluted
4 = Bark
5 = Pyramie (Not Used)
6 = Turn-O-Graph
7 = Various
8 = Special (Not Currently Used)
9 = Open (Not Currently Used)

The next (sixth) digit is the metal code. In the case of a 16710, the 0 signifies stainless steel.

0 = Stainless Steel
1 = Yellow gold Placor (Tudor)
22 = Stainless steel and Platinum (Yachtmaster)
3 = Stainless Steel and 18k Yellow gold (Yellow Rolesor)
4 = Stainless Steel and 18k White gold (White Rolesor)
5 = Gold Shell (No Longer Used)
6 = Platinum
7 = 14k Yellow gold (No Longer Used)
8 = 18k Yellow gold
9 = 18k White gold
BIC = Bi-Color 18k Yellow and White gold combo
TRIDOR = 18k Yellow, White and Rose gold

[Brad737]

Thanks a million, Paul!

[Haywood_Milton]

Excellent links and info. Keeping these lists up to date can be a challenge --- the metal code "5" is now used again of course and denotes 18ct rose gold, while the metal code "1" now denotes steel and rose gold.

With kind regards,

Haywood Milton

[ltmgeller]

[anthonyanthony]

Bump! Been searching for this reference model number meaning. Thanks a bunch!

[fishingbear]

Ha, 4 year bump. Sheldon’s website is a fantastic tool for any Rolex enthusiast.

[anthonyanthony]

Haha yeah 4 years bump. Those website minus4plus6 surprisingly has an updated content

[schoolboy]

Great information, thanks for sharing!


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