Rolexes are high-quality time pieces known for their classic design with intricate and precise details. Below are five ways you can spot an authentic Rolex quickly when perusing estate sales or antique dealers:
- The watch should be heavy – if the watch feels light, it is probably not authentic. Rolex watches are generally heavy due to the high quality of metals used in their construction.
- The signature mark of a Rolex is its crown. Generally, this crown is on the dial and appears to be of high quality. In addition, this crown will most likely be located at 12 o’clock.
- In the early 2000s, Rolex began etching their signature in the face glass at 6 o’clock . You may need a magnifying glass to see this type of etching, but it is a telltale sign the Rolex is genuine.
- If the lettering looks askew or imperfect on the face of the watch, the watch is most likely not a Rolex. Rolex prides itself on its precision and attention to detail. Any imperfection is a sign the piece is not genuine.
- Be wary of the time piece’s pricetag. The most affordable Rolex watches sell for a few thousand dollars whereas some of the most expensive models are sold for millions. If the price of a Rolex is “too good to be true,” it most likely is.
- Rolex watches are much quieter than other types of watches. On standard watches, the second hand moves in a jerky fashion or has twitchy movements accompanied by a “tick, tick, tick”. However, Rolex watches have very smooth movements and the ticking noise is much softer and less abrupt than other watches.
If you are in the market for a Rolex watch or are thinking about selling one you own in the greater Los Angeles area, please contact Heritage Estate Sales for a free consultation on your piece.