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Main Forums => General Discussion - Modern Watches => Topic started by: siodee on July 15, 2011, 02:55:00 PM

Title: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 15, 2011, 02:55:00 PM
Just have a question that need Sifu to help, What is the different for Rolex M series or Z series for a particular model? I don't understand, and the price can be so much different. Any advise????
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 15, 2011, 03:18:29 PM
Just have a question that need Sifu to help, What is the different for Rolex M series or Z series for a particular model? I don't understand, and the price can be so much different. Any advise????

The serial numbers (based on best guess, guesstimation, agak-agakration):

Z000001 - 2006
M000001 - 2007
V000001 - 2008
G000001 - Mid 2010
Random Numbers - Late 2010 to present

The difference between the Z,M and V are things like:

1. Traditional old style COSC paperwork on the Z series as compared to the CCCC (COSC Credit Card Certificate) on the M and V series. Some like the old version, some like the new version.

2. CRB (Chapter Ring Branding). Some people like it, some don't. Sadly some Z series have the CRB and some M series don't. So you really have to look, if you don't like the CRB.

3. Age. Z series older while V series newer. So pre-loved prices can vary (I guess).

4. The Rolex laser etching on the crystal. Later model have, earlier model don't. Some like, some don't.

Also there are differences which are model specific. For example on the Daytona, the clasp is different between the M, V and Z series. However this is not 100% true as there were cases of the V series Daytona with the older Z series clasp. That's Rolex for you. Just like the random serial number and the 'sudden' appearance of the G serial number.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: ck77 on July 15, 2011, 03:20:11 PM
Bro Hobbit,  :thumbsup: is that any horology question that you can't answer?  ;D
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 15, 2011, 03:27:10 PM
 Hobbit, thanks for the answer  ;D, another question

1) What is CRB (Chapter Ring Branding)?
2) Seem like Z is more expensive than M and V, why? Any particular reason like Font? or size of font?
3) Between all these series, said for the Subs, which one will you collect? and why?
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 15, 2011, 03:39:23 PM
Bro Hobbit,  :thumbsup: is that any horology question that you can't answer?  ;D

ck77,

A lot. Still learning.  :)
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 15, 2011, 03:48:27 PM
Hobbit, thanks for the answer  ;D, another question

1) What is CRB (Chapter Ring Branding)?
2) Seem like Z is more expensive than M and V, why? Any particular reason like Font? or size of font?
3) Between all these series, said for the Subs, which one will you collect? and why?

1. CRB - ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX serial number ROLEXROLEXROLEX on the rehaut.
2. Z series more expensive? On which model? Sub? Don't really know, perhaps it is more vintage? Maybe the old paperwork?
3. Not really into Sub as I don't really like the cyclops. The only sub I like are the 14060 series. No date, hence no cyclops. If I were get one of these, I am torn between  the 14060M transitional. It has the 14060 dial (2 line but with the improved cal. 3130) and the 14060M COSC as this could be one of the shortest lived model of Sub if Rolex decides to 'improve' on the watch with the introduction of the new case and ceramic bezel next year (introduced in 2007).
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: besview on July 15, 2011, 04:17:40 PM
Hobbit, thanks for the answer  ;D, another question

1) What is CRB (Chapter Ring Branding)?
2) Seem like Z is more expensive than M and V, why? Any particular reason like Font? or size of font?
3) Between all these series, said for the Subs, which one will you collect? and why?


Z preceeds M and V.Maybe the condition,whether it is with box /papers,or if its grey market ..All these are factors determining price for any watch for that matter.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: acurusaragon on July 15, 2011, 08:28:51 PM
This is wealth of knowledge ..... tq hobbit for enlighten us with the info (at least for me).
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: Sid Vicious on July 16, 2011, 04:51:32 AM
Good thread siodee. Lots I just learnt from here
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 18, 2011, 10:23:29 AM
Hobbit, thanks for the answer  ;D, another question

1) What is CRB (Chapter Ring Branding)?
2) Seem like Z is more expensive than M and V, why? Any particular reason like Font? or size of font?
3) Between all these series, said for the Subs, which one will you collect? and why?

1. CRB - ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX serial number ROLEXROLEXROLEX on the rehaut.
2. Z series more expensive? On which model? Sub? Don't really know, perhaps it is more vintage? Maybe the old paperwork?
3. Not really into Sub as I don't really like the cyclops. The only sub I like are the 14060 series. No date, hence no cyclops. If I were get one of these, I am torn between  the 14060M transitional. It has the 14060 dial (2 line but with the improved cal. 3130) and the 14060M COSC as this could be one of the shortest lived model of Sub if Rolex decides to 'improve' on the watch with the introduction of the new case and ceramic bezel next year (introduced in 2007).

hmmm, I definitely do not like the CRB, cause it is just too much for the word "ROLEX...." around  :Laughing_on_floor: like the ladies carry LV, or a lot of "C", "G"

Hobbit, are you reffering to these 2?

14060
(http://www.uhrwald.de/pics/x14060.jpg)

14060M
(http://www.ginault.com/en/images/rolex-submariner/rolex-submariner-14060m/rolex-submariner-14060m-01.jpg)

What is so unique about these 2??? Sorry for so many question, I am try to learn the different, cause the Rolex model or number is very confusing  :Confused:, the more you read the more confuse  :Confused: :Confused:you get
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: ck77 on July 18, 2011, 12:24:56 PM
Not an expert but below are some differences.

Picture 1:-
- Tritium dial, usually pre-2000 prodcution

Picture 2:-
- This is the COSC version (post 2007).
- There are non COSC 14060M producted approx from 2000 - 2007

More info here,
http://www.vintagesubmariner.com/vintagesubs.html

Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: pexus on July 18, 2011, 03:06:37 PM
hi siodee...try to surf the main watch forums, under rolex or rolex-sport section...a lot of info there..got specific thread discussing about 14060 vs 14060M also...I learned some basics from there too...

i think the preference is quite well balanced....those who prefer 14060 have their point and the 14060M also have their merits..
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: hanz079 on July 18, 2011, 03:48:39 PM
A question regarding the laser engraving on the sapphire crystal... where is it and when did Rolex start implementing the laser engraving (series?) Thanks
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 19, 2011, 11:29:40 AM
A question regarding the laser engraving on the sapphire crystal... where is it and when did Rolex start implementing the laser engraving (series?) Thanks

Rolex suppose to have started the LEC (Laser Etched Coronet) on the crystal in 2001 and all crystal should have the LEC by 2003/ 2004. However not all models will have the LEC, e.g. the Milgauss with the green crystal. Also there are two types of LEC, the original LEC with the dots forming the coronet and the service crystal with the same coronet but with an additional 'S' inside the circle at the base of the coronet.

The LEC is at the 6 o'clock position.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: hanz079 on July 19, 2011, 03:19:17 PM
Thanks Hobbit,

I have checked my Dad's exp2 and I can't seem to find any... any pics so that I know what I am looking for?
Is it visible to the naked eye?
Thanks
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 19, 2011, 03:53:44 PM
Thanks Hobbit,

I have checked my Dad's exp2 and I can't seem to find any... any pics so that I know what I am looking for?
Is it visible to the naked eye?
Thanks

hanz079,

It is visible but it may difficult to see. Is your dad explorer 2 the new one? Any here is a photograph of the coronet.

(http://i320.photobucket.com/albums/nn322/TheHobbit_01/Collection/crown1-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: rockdaman on July 19, 2011, 03:58:59 PM
if i m not wrong only after 2003 model has it.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 19, 2011, 03:59:47 PM

hmmm, I definitely do not like the CRB, cause it is just too much for the word "ROLEX...." around  :Laughing_on_floor: like the ladies carry LV, or a lot of "C", "G"

Hobbit, are you reffering to these 2?

14060
(http://www.uhrwald.de/pics/x14060.jpg)

14060M
(http://www.ginault.com/en/images/rolex-submariner/rolex-submariner-14060m/rolex-submariner-14060m-01.jpg)

What is so unique about these 2??? Sorry for so many question, I am try to learn the different, cause the Rolex model or number is very confusing  :Confused:, the more you read the more confuse  :Confused: :Confused:you get

siodee,

As highlighted by ck77, the first picture is the 14060 and the second is the 14060M. The 14060 with the newer 3130 movement would not have the Swiss T<25 at the 6 o'clock position. It would have Swiss or Swiss Made on the dial. This means that it has the newer Super Luminova dial.

As to why I like the watch? Well it does not have the cyclops. Also it is the modern interpretation of the reference 5513. The difference is the movement and the crystal. The 5513 has the much loved acrylic crystal.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: rockdaman on July 19, 2011, 04:01:37 PM
Thanks Hobbit,

I have checked my Dad's exp2 and I can't seem to find any... any pics so that I know what I am looking for?
Is it visible to the naked eye?
Thanks

if it is white face then more difficult to see.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: hanz079 on July 19, 2011, 04:05:38 PM
It's a Polar Exp2 "M" Series....
I'm trying pretty hard to spot it just now but I don't see any...
Maybe I will try again tomorrow...
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 19, 2011, 04:29:45 PM
It's a Polar Exp2 "M" Series....
I'm trying pretty hard to spot it just now but I don't see any...
Maybe I will try again tomorrow...

hanz079,

Try putting a flashlight on the upper half of the dial and use the reflection to see the coronet. Look at the photograph below.

(http://i320.photobucket.com/albums/nn322/TheHobbit_01/Collection/100_3362.jpg)
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: hanz079 on July 19, 2011, 04:44:42 PM
It's a Polar Exp2 "M" Series....
I'm trying pretty hard to spot it just now but I don't see any...
Maybe I will try again tomorrow...

hanz079,

Try putting a flashlight on the upper half of the dial and use the reflection to see the coronet. Look at the photograph below.

Thanks Hobbs...
Will try again tomorrow...
You've been a big help as usual!!  :thumbsup:
What would we do without you I wonder... heehee
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: ck77 on July 19, 2011, 08:25:56 PM
Thanks Hobbit,

I have checked my Dad's exp2 and I can't seem to find any... any pics so that I know what I am looking for?
Is it visible to the naked eye?
Thanks
Hmm .. it is a fake!  :Laughing_on_floor:
Try look at different angle and you will find it  ;D
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: hanz079 on July 19, 2011, 08:47:59 PM
I know its not a fake...
But I just wanna find the details as sometimes those little details fascinate me...  ;D
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: pexus on July 20, 2011, 06:14:51 AM
I know its not a fake...
But I just wanna find the details as sometimes those little details fascinate me...  ;D

i am sure its there la..there must be a crown for every achievement mah... ;D
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 20, 2011, 07:23:44 AM
CK and Pexus, thanks for the information, Rolex is something interesting to study, but the more you study, the more you will like  :thumbsup:

Hobbit, thanks for the info and the LEC info too, BTW, beside located at 6pm, is there any other location that Rolex has implemented in other model. Something new to me
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 20, 2011, 07:30:27 AM
CK and Pexus, thanks for the information, Rolex is something interesting to study, but the more you study, the more you will like  :thumbsup:

Hobbit, thanks for the info and the LEC info too, BTW, beside located at 6pm, is there any other location that Rolex has implemented in other model. Something new to me

Yes, on the no date models, the LEC may not be at the 6 o'clock position. Also on the replacement or service crystal, the LEC may not be exactly on the 6 o'clock position.
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 20, 2011, 07:35:34 AM
CK and Pexus, thanks for the information, Rolex is something interesting to study, but the more you study, the more you will like  :thumbsup:

Hobbit, thanks for the info and the LEC info too, BTW, beside located at 6pm, is there any other location that Rolex has implemented in other model. Something new to me

Yes, on the no date models, the LEC may not be at the 6 o'clock position. Also on the replacement or service crystal, the LEC may not be exactly on the 6 o'clock position.

Service crystal or the no date model, where is the LEC located? is it one of the way to verify the authenticity of Rloex?
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: TheHobbit on July 20, 2011, 08:15:14 AM


Service crystal or the no date model, where is the LEC located? is it one of the way to verify the authenticity of Rloex?

siodee,

On the service crystal, the LEC is at the 6 o'clock position, just that it may not be exact 6 o'clock. Some are and some are not. As for the no date model, not sure where it is located, some may be at the 6 o'clock position, some may not.

The LEC and ROLEX on the rehaut are just some of the ways Rolex are combating fake watches. The safest way to verify if the Rolex is original is to bring it to the RSC and ask them to check (but not 100% fool proof either, more so with vintage Rolex). Of course there are other things that you can do to check, like serial and model number between the lugs (older models), checking the serial number to known list of serial numbers (check the Internet), removing the case back to check the movement (correct to the model), checking the model number on the case back and year made (inside the case back) to the model number between the lugs and year made. General condition of the watch. Paperwork if any. BUY THE SELLER, not the watch.

And most important, if it is too good to be true....
Title: Re: Rolex M, V, Z series
Post by: siodee on July 20, 2011, 03:16:08 PM


Service crystal or the no date model, where is the LEC located? is it one of the way to verify the authenticity of Rloex?

siodee,

On the service crystal, the LEC is at the 6 o'clock position, just that it may not be exact 6 o'clock. Some are and some are not. As for the no date model, not sure where it is located, some may be at the 6 o'clock position, some may not.

The LEC and ROLEX on the rehaut are just some of the ways Rolex are combating fake watches. The safest way to verify if the Rolex is original is to bring it to the RSC and ask them to check (but not 100% fool proof either, more so with vintage Rolex). Of course there are other things that you can do to check, like serial and model number between the lugs (older models), checking the serial number to known list of serial numbers (check the Internet), removing the case back to check the movement (correct to the model), checking the model number on the case back and year made (inside the case back) to the model number between the lugs and year made. General condition of the watch. Paperwork if any. BUY THE SELLER, not the watch.

And most important, if it is too good to be true....

Thanks for the info  :Cheers: