
How to Read a Rolex Datejust Reference Number
Decode any Rolex Datejust reference number: what each digit means for model, bezel and metal, where to find it, and how dial codes work, with examples.
Selling a Rolex to Chrono Group in London works in four steps: send the model, reference, condition and set contents through the form; receive a free, non-binding valuation within 24 hours; bring the watch to the Birchin Lane showroom or send it by insured tracked collection; and receive payment by bank transfer on the same day it passes final inspection. We buy every modern Rolex line outright, including the Datejust, Daytona, Submariner and GMT-Master II, with or without box and papers. A full set raises the offer. Selling a different brand? See sell a watch.
Four details shape the figure: the model and reference number, the production year, the condition of the case, bracelet and movement, and whether the original Rolex box, warranty card and papers are still with it. Discontinued references and sought-after dials, such as the Daytona 116500LN or the GMT-Master II Pepsi, can command more than their original retail price, while a full set lifts the value of any Rolex.
Complete the valuation form with the model, year and condition and a free, non-binding quote follows within 24 hours. Our Rolex specialists track the market daily, so the quote reflects what your reference is trading at now rather than a fixed rate. If you would rather have the watch looked at in front of you, request an appointment and we will value it while you wait.
Our showroom is at Birchin Court, 20 Birchin Lane, London EC3V 9DU, a short walk from Bank and Monument. We are open Monday to Friday, 10:00am to 6:00pm; Saturday, 11:00am to 4:00pm. Appointments are recommended for valuations and can be booked at chrono-group.com/request-an-appointment/, by phone on 020 7867 3801, or over WhatsApp.
If coming into the City is awkward, our logistics partners collect the watch from you instead. You receive a tracking number to follow the shipment, and the watch stays fully insured in transit and in storage.
We buy every modern Rolex line and most vintage references, including the Datejust, Daytona, Submariner, GMT-Master II, Sky-Dweller, Day-Date, Yacht-Master, Oyster Perpetual, Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, Explorer, Air-King, Milgauss and Land-Dweller, in steel, two-tone, gold and platinum.
Not sure which reference you have? Send the model and the reference number engraved between the lugs at 12 o’clock through the form and we will confirm before you go any further.
Arrival is registered and confirmed to you straight away. Our certified watchmakers then carry out a full authenticity and condition check, covering the movement, case, bracelet, serial and reference numbers and paperwork, in a way that cannot damage the piece.
The offer follows by email or telephone. Accept it and payment is arranged the same day; decline it and the watch is returned to you, fully insured. Nothing is agreed before you say so.
In addition to selling your watch, we also offer a convenient part exchange option. If you’re looking to upgrade your watch without the hassle of selling it privately, part exchange is an excellent choice. You can trade in your current watch from our collection and put its value towards a new timepiece. Experience a seamless transition and explore our exceptional selection of luxury watches.
Chrono Group buys Rolex watches at its showroom in Birchin Court, 20 Birchin Lane, London EC3V 9DU, open Monday to Friday, 10:00am to 6:00pm; Saturday, 11:00am to 4:00pm. Bring the watch in by appointment or request insured collection instead. Valuations are free, and payment is issued the same day the watch is approved.
Complete the sell my Rolex form with the model, reference, year, condition and whether you have the box and papers. Our specialists provide a free, non-binding valuation within 24 hours. If you accept, bring the watch to Birchin Lane or send it by insured tracked collection, and payment follows by bank transfer the same day it passes final inspection.
The figure depends on the model and reference, the production year, condition and whether the original box, warranty card and papers are present. Sought-after references such as the Daytona, Submariner and GMT-Master II often sell for more than their original retail price. Send the details through the form and a current market quote comes back within 24 hours.
Yes. Chrono Group buys Rolex watches without the original box, warranty card or papers. A full set raises the offer, so list everything you hold, but the watch is valued on its authenticity, reference and condition.
Yes. We buy Rolex watches in all conditions, including pieces that are not running or need a service, polish or new parts. Our watchmakers assess the condition and the offer reflects the work needed.
Payment goes out by bank transfer on the day your Rolex completes final approval at our head office. Once the watch has been received and authenticated there is no further wait.
Every modern Rolex line and most vintage references: Datejust, Daytona, Submariner, GMT-Master II, Sky-Dweller, Day-Date, Yacht-Master, Oyster Perpetual, Sea-Dweller, Deepsea, Explorer, Air-King, Milgauss and Land-Dweller, in steel, two-tone, gold and platinum.
Our logistics partners collect the watch and issue a tracking number so you can follow it at every stage. The watch is fully insured in transit and while it is stored with us, and every Rolex is checked against The Watch Register on arrival.
Yes. The quote costs nothing and there is no obligation to proceed. If you decline the offer after the watch has been inspected, it is returned to you at no charge.
Yes. The agreed value of your Rolex can go towards any watch from our collection, including another Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier or Richard Mille. Part exchange is subject to final approval once the watch has been received and assessed at our head office.

Decode any Rolex Datejust reference number: what each digit means for model, bezel and metal, where to find it, and how dial codes work, with examples.

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