It says it all in the title, maybe call me stupid but I have to learn by asking questions.
Thanks

 

It means what it says - the serial numbers issued are random and don't follow a predetermined sequence...

Rolex switched to this a few years ago, so now you can walk into an AD and buy a watch that has been sitting for years or just came off the truck, and not know which it is based on the serial number.

 

So previously we're all numbers consecutive and therefore traceable for age etc.

 

Yes

 

Thanks

 

and why did they do that?? it's not better to know the 'history' of your watch?

 

Sure it's better for you to know that, but not necessarily better for Rolex...

 

Anyone here know: does Rolex at least keep records so THEY can know when a particular piece was made/shipped/sold based on the random serial number?

 

Sure they know, but the point of going random is to avoid the situation where an informed buyer stops by the AD, sees a watch they want, but knows that it's been sitting there for some time based on the serial number. Many in this situation would either want to negotiate a lower price, or have a newer one brought in, rather than buy the older stock at full price.

There is no benefit to the consumer with random serial numbers...

 

I guess it makes some marketing sense. I'm the exception though. If I see a new piece at an AD that I want I can't make myself care if it arrived yesterday or if has been there a few years. Oh well...