On a rolex watch, does it have to have the serial

go google and type in-- genuine rolex watch serial numbers ---
there are many sites with information that you can research to see if your watch is genuine

try this link... Rolex Serial Numbers with Production Dates ..or this... Year of rolex serial number 4142552 Google Search

you cant check a serial number if Rolex dealer checks it he has to keep it if the watch is stolen
Thanks
Watchfinder Sean

Mabe these links will help.
R574371 was made in1987
Rolex Production Dates by Serial Numbers Look Up Tool Chart

https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS385US385&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=how%20do%20i%20tell%20if%20my%20rolex%20is%20real

Rolex case serial numbers are always stamped into the case beneath the bezel and you need to remove the watch band to read them...

I would suggest only buying from an authorized dealer that sells watches with their original serial number intact. Especially for a high-end watch like a Rolex.

If your rolex has a serial number inside the case on back of the works it is real. only rolex watches have this kind of number

This model Rolex has been manufactured over multiple years, and it is not possible to date your watch based purely on is model number. However, it is possible to date most Rolexes based on their serial numbers, which can be found stamped between the lower lugs (i.e., the lugs below 6:00 on the watch dial). You will need to remove the band from these lugs to read the serial number.

Dating the watch case of a Rolex does not necessarily date the entire watch. It is possible that a movement from another watch was placed into a watch case that is younger or older than the the movement. Like Rolex watch cases, Rolex movements can also be dated by their serial numbers, if this is a concern you have about this particular watch.

This jeweler has put together a nice summary of when Rolex watch models were introduced and which serial numbers are associated with specific years of manufacture. Once you have found your serial number, this should help you date your watch. I have no connection (financial or otherwise) with this web site, but I found the information useful and presented in an easy to understand way.

http://www.bgrayjewelers.com/rolex_information.htm

I would expect Rolex to have a record of all their watches and if you contact your nearest dealer, they should be able to help you.

You can find a store guide on their web site "rolex.com"