Rolex with no serial engraving?

[jlmnjem]

I'm trying to determine the authenticity of a watch that belonged to a relative who passed several years ago. He bought it from his brother probably 30 years ago, which is the only history I know. I've removed the bracelet and there is nothing engraved between the lugs on either side of the case. I know nearly zero about watches, but I thought all Rolexes would have the serial number engraved on the case. Opinions, please? Thanks.

[Nick9]

Sad to say, the numbers can wear off old gold cases over time, and with bracelet rubbing, and some polishing from time to time.

At first glance, yours looks okay but hard to say for sure from the picture of the dial.

Use Google images for "Rolex bubbleback" and see what you can find. Good luck.

[Old Expat Beast]

That dial doesn't look good at all. At best it's been re-painted.

[jlmnjem]

Originally Posted by Nick9

Sad to say, the numbers can wear off old gold cases over time, and with bracelet rubbing, and some polishing from time to time.

At first glance, yours looks okay but hard to say for sure from the picture of the dial.

Use Google images for "Rolex bubbleback" and see what you can find. Good luck.

A quick search reveals that it, if authentic, it would have been made somewhere between 1933 and the early 1950’s (article said it was made for only 20 years). I suppose that could partly explain its condition. The first time I saw it 20 years ago it seems it was in much better condition, but the gentleman who owned it died very elderly and wore it up until his death, and I’m sure that also took a toll on its condition, as he was feeble and frequently fell. The crystal is cracked and quite scratched, but the lettering on the face is very clear when viewed from varying angles through a magnifying glass. What would you say about the face not having the word Swiss at the bottom?

[jlmnjem]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

That dial doesn't look good at all. At best it's been re-painted.

It actually looks much better when viewed from varying angles underneath a magnifying glass. The crystal is badly scratched and scuffed, making the lettering look distorted.

What about the absence of the word Swiss at the bottom of the face?

[jlmnjem]

Another article indicated the Bubblebacks were 30-32mm, and this one is 32mm.

[offrdmania]

The dial has been repainted and relumed

[Dan S]

I'm no expert on these old pieces, but I actually thought I remembered hearing that the serial numbers were sometimes on the case-back. Of course, I don't see one there either, so that's not much help. There may still be a reference number inside the case-back.

[crowncollection]

Appears worn off.


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