What really counts, when it comes to serial numbers ?

[andypandy]

Here we go ! My Gmtmaster has the serial number 2041*** , on looking up the year of manufacture it appears to be 1666 or 1967, depending what
list I use. The caseback is stamped 111 68. What have I got ? I have owned this watch for 27 years...bought from a friend who was the original purchaser. He had never had it serviced or repaired , so nobody had a chance to swap backs. Well what do you think , gentlemen ?

[Clay]

Rolex serial number "charts" are rough guidelines only.....They have been complied over the years by collectors and enthusiasts...

These charts are NOT put out by Rolex....

As with all things "Rolex" NOTHING is carved in stone...

I have no doubt that your watch is fine......

[diverdick]

I think your watch and caseback are a spot on match.
My favorite site for a serial number list is Oysterinfo.com
The VRF SN Project confirms my assumption as well.

[Jason71]

Qualitytyme is accurate for what you have presented

http://www.qualitytyme.net/pages/numbers.html

[andypandy]

Gentlemen , I thank you ! I was in no doubt that my watch was the real thing , it has spent time with those fine folks at the R.S.C. in Engerland. Your fine input has put my
mind at ease..... until I find something else to fret about , I am obliged.

[marcello pisani]

Originally Posted by andypandy

Here we go ! My Gmtmaster has the serial number 2041*** , on looking up the year of manufacture it appears to be 1666 or 1967, depending what
list I use. The caseback is stamped 111 68. What have I got ? I have owned this watch for 27 years...bought from a friend who was the original purchaser. He had never had it serviced or repaired , so nobody had a chance to swap backs. Well what do you think , gentlemen ?

according to correct Rolex tables : a case number in the 2.041 range was produced in 1969 , so your back punched III-68 ( 3rd quarter of 1968 ) is perfect , as normally you can have a "delay" of 6-12 months between the time in which the back was produced and the time in which the CASE was produced.
so all is ok and stop worry !!

[greekbum]

Originally Posted by andypandy

Here we go ! My Gmtmaster has the serial number 2041*** , on looking up the year of manufacture it appears to be 1666 or 1967, depending what
list I use. The caseback is stamped 111 68. What have I got ? I have owned this watch for 27 years...bought from a friend who was the original purchaser. He had never had it serviced or repaired , so nobody had a chance to swap backs. Well what do you think , gentlemen ?

By looking at the caseback in the picture you provided are YOU SURE it was never serviced before? I ask because I see at least 2 times it was marked inside by a watchmaker.

[Newportkrieger]

Originally Posted by greekbum

By looking at the caseback in the picture you provided are YOU SURE it was never serviced before? I ask because I see at least 2 times it was marked inside by a watchmaker.

I think the assumption here is that it was never serviced before Andrew got it some 27 years ago. I am sure he has had it serviced.. at least the teo times recorded in the caseback. Andy any comment to clarify this???

[Michael M.]

Originally Posted by greekbum

By looking at the caseback in the picture you provided are YOU SURE it was never serviced before? I ask because I see at least 2 times it was marked inside by a watchmaker.

I agree, I see 2 or 3 engravings. Also, your watch is probably fine

[conrail]

Originally Posted by diverdick

I think your watch and caseback are a spot on match.
My favorite site for a serial number list is Oysterinfo.com
The VRF SN Project confirms my assumption as well.

I too like the VRF SN project page and list for vintage, and qualitytyme for modern.

You'll be surprised how much people "quote" the wrong charts. For example during Christie's latest NY Important Watches auction they clearly were using one of the more popular incorrect charts, which placed some Subs that didn't come out until the early 60s as being mid 50s watches

[springer]

Add to what already has been posted, the watch probably was not sold until 1970 or 1971 - possibly later.

[andypandy]

First , I am deeply gratefull for all of the kind replies. Nikos spotted that there are
a couple of marks on the caseback interior, they were done when I had work doneThis is the watch that had a visit to Rolex , an insurance repair , during which they stole my silver date-wheel and the original dial...scream !... I didn't know any better and was delighted to get my watch back , looking ''Brand New '' Sob ! Thank you all , I am obliged.