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Is this Rolex actually from 1944?

  1. drhombus24 Dec 27, 2017

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    Hello, just sold off a watch so I am in the market. I thought I’d look around for some local Rolex listings and found this. I don’t think I believe the sellers claim that it is from 1944, but then again, I don’t know better. My research has not found a dial that looks like that, which makes me skeptical. The overall condition is also suspicious. Finally, the price is around 2k. What do you guys think? Even if it isn't as old as the seller claims, is it authentic and is 2k a fair price? I like this one for some reason. Thanks in advance and sorry for the low quality photos. IMG_3802.jpeg IMG_3803.jpeg IMG_3804.jpeg A363CA9A-86BD-479B-8B4A-0ED203DCB60D.png
     
  2. Fritz genuflects before the mighty quartzophobe Dec 27, 2017

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    I once had a 1944 Rolex and the movement looked much like that. The case looks reasonable too.

    But that dial! Did they just spray bomb right over everything and restamp Rolex onto it? Yuk!

    Run away... fast
     
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  3. drhombus24 Dec 27, 2017

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    Thank you, I knew something was messed up with the dial, but the rest looked good so I wanted to make sure. Back to the used listings I guess....
     
  4. gatorcpa ΩF InvestiGator Staff Member Dec 27, 2017

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    There is a date code on the inside of the caseback. Unfortunately, the picture of it is very out of focus.

    There should also be a case serial number between the 6 o’clock lugs. That will help to determine the manufacture date.

    Rolex started its case serial number sequence over around 1954. People see a lower serial number and get it wrong all the time.

    https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-serial-numbers

    Enter a random six digit number into the site above and see what you get.

    gatorcpa
     
  5. jimmyd13 Dec 27, 2017

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    Certainly bears a resemblance to a 1940s 2280 or similar. Case back is later and the original would have borne the serial and reference numbers; crown's wrong and the dial's had a heavy makeover. I bought one this year for around £1000 and sold another for £800, so feel free to use that as a guide. If you do want to buy it, I have a bracelet that will mate well with it.
     
  6. gatorcpa ΩF InvestiGator Staff Member Dec 27, 2017

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  7. jimmyd13 Dec 27, 2017

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    You're right - I've just put a few photos side by side on my computer and this case is larger than the one I suggested. It's certainly later than I said and I think you're very close if not spot on.
     
  8. drhombus24 Dec 27, 2017

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    Thanks for all of the information. There’s no way I would have noticed any of the things mentioned. The seller seems pretty firm on the 2000 “since it’s a Rolex.” Based on your suggestions, I don’t think it is worth it. Thanks for all of your help.
     
  9. 77deluxe Dec 27, 2017

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    No.