Rolex is probably the victim of more brand copying than any other watch manufacturer in the world, with hundreds of thousands of fake “Rolexes” in circulation, and not just on city streets, but in used watch shops and online retail stores. Many used watch buyers are rightfully nervous when buying a second-hand Rolex, for fear of not getting the genuine article.

To increase your confidence in buying a pre-owned Rolex, San Diego Jewelry BuyersTM, San Diego’s leading buyer of Swiss timepieces, has put together the following useful watch tips. These tips are also helpful for those who want to sell watches like Rolexes but are unsure if their watch is authentic.

1) An authentic Rolex Oyster Perpetual has a screwed-back case.

2) Rolex Oysters are made from stainless steel, platinum, or gold.

3) A Rolex manufactured with gold is never gold plated, but is made with either 14k or 18k gold.

4) If there is rubber anywhere on the used Rolex (band or case) it is a fake.

5) Never buy a new or pre-owned Rolex from Craigslist or on the street.

6) The only Rolex watches that have day and date features are the men’s full-size watch.

7) Rolex does not use skeleton dials (ones that display the moving parts of the watch).

8) When you buy a Rolex use a credit card, which makes the watch easier to return should you discover that it is a fake.

9) Rolex does not make watches with a glass (see through) case.

10) A Rolex President is always made from one of the following precious metals: platinum, 18k yellow gold, or 18k white gold. These Rolexes can often command a high price from San Diego watch buyers.

11) Both new and used Rolexes should always come with a warranty.

12) Less than 10% of all Oyster Perpetual Rolexes have a quartz movement, so be extra careful when assessing the authenticity of this kind of watch.

13) Rolex has never manufactured its watches in China.

14) If you would like to sell Rolex watches, be sure to contact a qualified San Diego watch buyer who specializes in used Rolex watches and other fine Swiss timepieces.

For more info on how to sell watches, contact San Diego Jewelry Buyers for a free, no hassle, appraisal.

We are San Diego’s trusted A+ BBB rated Rolex watch buyer and estate jewelry buyer.