Rolex bezels

[DJ1986]

Hi,

I found an article online where they mention that the 5th digit of the reference model describes the type of bezel.

I have a vintage datejust 16030 and according to that article the 0 means a smooth bezel. However it is an engine turned bezel if i'm correct (see pic).

Does anyone know how this is possible?

And is there somewhere online or on this forum an overview with the different bezels Rolex uses (and how that's reflected in the reference number). I for example read online about fluted, cannelee or reeded, but it's hard to see the differences.

Thanks,
Dirk

[DJ1986]

The link of the article of which I'm referring to.

[Dan S]

Ref 16000 would be a smooth bezel. Here is my blue-dial.
[Edit: I just looked at the article you linked, and that section is a bit ambiguous. But perhaps those last two bullet points, about the 5th and 6th digits, are intended to refer only to 6-digit references.]

[Richard Carver]

Looking at the chart it would seem the fifth digit references the type of metal, 0 steel, 3 SS gold, 8 YG etc.

[DJ1986]

Originally Posted by Dan S

Ref 16000 would be a smooth bezel. Here is my blue-dial.
[Edit: I just looked at the article you linked, and that section is a bit ambiguous. But perhaps those last two bullet points, about the 5th and 6th digits, are intended to refer only to 6-digit references.]

Aha, that would make sense. Can anyone confirm this? And is there than also some logic for 5 digit references?

Thanks

[Dan S]

The 5-digit references seem to be an extension of the four digit references. This is just from my own anecdotal observations.

1600-->16000 (smooth)
1603-->16030 (engine-turned)
1601-->16014 (fluted)