Rolex replicas are still the most produced replicas, even if the numbers of models of Panerai fakes are out there in greater numbers. Rolex has introduced several anti-counterfeiting features in their post-2005 models that are intended to ease in the identification of fake Rolexes. While an admirable attempt, the counterfeiters have managed to defeat most of the features of late. And since they are only available on "F-" and "D-" series (watches made in 2005 and later) it doesn't have that much of impact on the used-watch market.

Some of the anti-counterfeiting methods are:

• Small engraved Rolex crown at 6 o'clock on the crystal – Many fake Rolexes now have this feature, but use a much cruder and larger crown than Rolex uses. Rolexes crown is difficult to spot with the naked eye. Most replicas have a crown so large you can spot it easily while it's on your wrist.


• Engraving on the Rehaut – Rolex has placed engraving (typically the word "ROLEX" with the watch's serial number engraved at 6 o'clock) under the crystal on the area between the crystal and the dial. Many Rolex fakes of post-2005 models have this feature, but look closely. Some fake Rolexes actually have this printed on the rehaut, not engraved. Also look to make sure the serial number starts with an "F" or a "D".


• New clasp on certain models – The new DateJust and Daytonas, for example, have a new shorter clasp. This is evident on models such as the Turn-o-graph. Many fakes use the old clasp style, but then again this may be hard to spot. Always ask to see photos of the ENTIRE watch.


• Engraving on band end-links – Many new Rolex models have added model number engravings on the end of the watch end-link. This engraving includes the band model as well as two small Rolex crowns. This has been copied fairly successfully on most new high-end Rolex fakes.


• Display case-back on the new Rolex Prince – Finally Rolex has stumbled onto one of the best ways to protect their brand: innovation. The display-back on the Prince is a great way to showcase their new movement, but it also means that it's a new area to trip up fake watch manufacturers. The one example of a fake Rolex Prince I've come across is easy to spot because of the horrible case back revealing a cheap movement. Kudos to Rolex on this unexpected move on their part.

Rolex needs to introduce new case sizes, or provide more substantial differences than the above methods. All were defeated fairly successfully within six months of their introduction. Even things such as "fat" hour hands and oversized hour markers on the Anniversary Submariner (LV) didn't escape emulation within a short period of time. I feel that the heritage that Rolex strives to preserve by limiting the changes in their watches is their biggest problem when confronting counterfeiting.