How to tell if a Rolex is fake? Good question… First off: I could probably never tell.
If you already own the Rolex (modern), the easiest way is to have it serviced by Rolex, which essentially provides a seal of approval. Also review articles and videos (see bottom) on the best clones and how to identify – for me the key items are the finishing of the movement, and the use of a regulated balance instead of free sprung. Otherwise, if I didn’t have a legit and fake Rolex side-by-side…I’m not sure I could tell.
If you are talking about vintage Rolexes, then doubly beware. You should probably throw away the whole ‘Buy the Seller’ since there are so many fakes about with dealers selling them as well. Provenance is key. And anytime it passes through a dealers hands…even for a moment…well…it’s not an original owner piece, and presumably even more review is warranted.
Some examples of vintage Rolex fakes and frankens that have been for sale:
- Fake Rolex Daytona 6265
- A smorgasboard of Rolex fakes
- This fake Rolex Daytona 16520 with Beyer signature
- This Fake Rolex Is The Most Accurate Yet
- Fake Rolex Daytona from Jenni Elle (and also on a Fake Patek Philippe 5711 Super Clone)
And then, unfortunately, there are the very latest modern fakes. Please don’t purchase those, as good as they look. And apparently, they look very, very good. Go buy from an AD. Or even the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned with authenticity guaranteed – you can’t beat that!
Some interesting videos about clones and how to identify (or at least try to identify…) are: