Rolex Reference Lookup — Model Details & Years

Enter a Rolex reference number to get full model details: production years, case material, dial variants, and market context.

Why the reference number matters when buying a Rolex

The Rolex reference number is the single most important identifier when buying or selling a pre-owned Rolex. It tells you exactly which variant you are looking at — case material, bezel type, dial color, and bracelet. Two watches that look similar can have completely different values based on their reference. A stainless steel Daytona (116500LN) and a white gold Daytona (116519LN) may look similar in photographs but differ by CHF 30,000 or more in price.

At LTW Trade SA in Lugano, every watch listing includes the exact reference number. We encourage buyers to verify the reference on the watch itself — not just in the listing — before completing a purchase.

How to read Rolex reference numbers

Modern Rolex references follow a structured format. The numeric part identifies the model family. Suffixes indicate material and features: LN = black ceramic bezel (Lunette Noire), LB = blue ceramic, CHNR = chocolate/black ceramic, etc. For example:

126610LN = Submariner Date (126610) + black ceramic bezel (LN)
126710BLRO = GMT-Master II (126710) + blue/red ceramic bezel (BLRO = Bleu/ROuge — Pepsi)
228238 = Day-Date 40 (228238) in yellow gold (no suffix needed — gold variants are the default)

What to do after looking up a reference

Once you have confirmed the reference, check that the dial, hands, bezel, and bracelet are consistent with that reference's known variants. Rolex does not offer every dial on every reference — if a seller is offering an unusual combination, that warrants scrutiny. Contact our experts if you need authentication support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the reference number on a Rolex?

The reference number is engraved between the lugs at 12 o'clock. You need to remove the bracelet to see it. On modern Rolex watches it may also appear on the caseback or in the papers.

What does a Rolex reference number tell you?

The reference number identifies the exact model — case size, material, dial type, and bracelet. For example, 116500LN means: Daytona (116500) in Oystersteel with black ceramic bezel (LN). Knowing the reference is essential for verifying authenticity and market value.

Is the reference number the same as the model number?

Yes — Rolex uses 'reference number' and 'model number' interchangeably. It is different from the serial number. The reference tells you WHAT the watch is; the serial tells you WHEN it was made.

How do I know if a Rolex reference is current or discontinued?

Our database shows the production years for each reference. If the year_to is 2025 or 2026, the reference is likely current. Discontinued references can still be highly valuable — often more so than current models.

Can LTW source a specific Rolex reference for me?

Yes. LTW Trade SA offers a concierge sourcing service. If you are looking for a specific reference — for example a Daytona 116500LN on Jubilee or a specific dial variant — contact us and we will find it for you.

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