Abstract: An anti-theft marking method for the protection and tracking of objects and/or parts thereof is described. The method comprises assigning an identification code for the object and/or parts thereof to be protected by the code. The method further comprises identifying metal parts of the objects and/or parts thereof which are susceptible to rust and/or which are painted and susceptible to chipping and on which the code is to be engraved. A permanent transparent elastomeric adhesive tape is then applied over a region of the object and/or parts thereof where the code is to be engraved. Characters of the code are then engraved over the elastomeric tape and a clear protective lacquer is applied over the engraved code to seal perforations in the elastomeric adhesive tape made by the engraved code.