What Does a Complete Rolex Box and Papers Look Like?

Buying a new Rolex used to be a bit more of a production. In the '50s and '60s, Rolex boxes had funky shapes, exposed wood grain, and cotton/velvet interiors. This was long before plastic warranty cards; watches came with a paper guarantee that listed the serial number of the watch, as well as the place and date of purchase. 

In recent decades, the box has been reworked and downsized. They're now made of sustainable plywood and coated in recycled leather. The mass-produced modern boxes are of lesser quality than boxes past, surely due to the volume of Rolex's modern output. Warranty cards are now like credit cards, with basic info printed (serial, model number) and a scannable NFC chip inside for warranty/service purposes.

In late 2024, the modern Rolex box received its newest redesign (above and below, right). Besides the updated wave pattern and interior structure, which we covered in depth here, the biggest difference between the new and outgoing box is color: the outer box and sleeve are now green rather than cream. Many authorized dealers (ADs) have received these new boxes but will not distribute them until they've run out of the old supply (above and below, left). As such, you should not assume your box (or watch) is fake if it comes in the outgoing box design; this transition will take time and will vary AD to AD.

On both boxes, a wave pattern graces the top, and cream velour (instead of velvet or cotton) lines the interior. Instead of paper certification, the watch’s guarantee is now indicated by a plastic card tucked into a compartment inside the box, which signifies an electronic proof of purchase.   

If you’re thinking about buying a used Rolex, you may wonder what certifying papers and packaging you should be looking for to ensure its authenticity. If the watch was produced after 2009, you should be looking for the following things: 

1. Green presentation box 
2. Green seal tag, indicating the watch’s categorization as a Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 second accuracy) 
3. Plastic guarantee card with the watch’s serial number and model number
4. Faux leather warranty card holder

Image Source: The Watch Club

If you’re buying the watch new, you may also receive some of the following items: 

1. Owner’s manual for the specific watch reference you purchased 
2. Warranty booklet explaining Rolex’s 5 year warranty on watches 
3. Factory service guide 
4. Bezel protector 

When buying a preowned Rolex, you'll find listings that don't include some or all of these items. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially if it's an older watch, but in-warranty Rolexes should absolutely come with (at least) their warranty cards. Besides the obvious reason (being able to use your transferrable warranty), today's Rolex buyers know how much value these extra items hold; they don't just throw them away.

Selling Your Watch 

If there's a chance you might sell your Rolex, it’s particularly important that you retain all the original packaging and accoutrement. If, for some reason, you don’t have access to some of these bona fides, there are two alternatives to establishing authenticity.  

1. Have a reputable authorized dealer certify the authenticity of the watch.

Depending on the AD’s depth of knowledge and experience with Rolex watches, this is one pathway to authentication. However, it’s worth noting that not all potential buyers will accept the word of an AD, unless they know that person (personally or by reputation). If you know the person you’re selling to, however, this step should be sufficient to reassure them that the watch is genuine. 

Image Source: Rolex Forums

2. Send your watch to Rolex for a servicing. 

This option is an excellent way to both check out the current functioning of your watch and have it authenticated for sale. At a Rolex Service Center, specialists can determine which parts of your watch are original, and if any parts of the watch have been replaced or refurbished. They can also run tests on and ultrasonically clean the movement to ensure it’s functioning properly. After a factory service, you’ll receive a two-year post service warranty, and service paperwork that indicates your watch’s authenticity. This is attractive to potential buyers. One small caveat here: Rolex Service Centers try to bring older watches up to new factory standards. If you have older or unique elements of the watch you’d like to retain, you’re better off taking it to an independent watch technician to have it authenticated. 

Protect Your Investment 

Keep your Rolex bracelet factory-perfect for resale by replacing it with a rugged vulcanized rubber strap from Everest Bands. Our highly-rated aftermarket bands for Rolex watches are known for the integrity of their construction and the intentionality of their design. 

Header Image Source: The Watch Club

Original article written Meghan Clark, edited in 2025 by Skyler Nielsen-Sorensen.