Check watch serial number

Anyone who wants to buy a high-quality watch or has received a chronograph as an heirloom will naturally want to find out as much as possible about the timepiece. An important feature that can open the door to all kinds of relevant information about their watch is the serial number. Unlike the reference number or model number, which many watches of a certain type can have, the serial number is unique. In this article, we explain what exactly can be determined using this special number, what role it plays and how a check is carried out.

Why is the serial number important?

We start the topic by looking at the significance of the serial number of a watch:

Identification of the genuineness and authenticity of the watch

The unique number can be used to determine the authenticity of a watch, which has a very direct impact on its value. The first and easiest step is to compare the number engraved on the watch with the serial number entered in the certificate of authenticity. If there is a difference, this would be an indication that the watch could be a fake. Further options for checking authenticity using the serial number are explained later in this article.

Tracing the origin and history of the watch

In addition, the serial number can tell you the approximate age of the watch, while the papers often only contain the date of sale. For many major brands, such as Omega, Breitling , or previously Rolex, it is common for certain numeral ranges to be used exclusively in certain periods or even just in a single year of production. In this context, to determine the age of a luxury watch, it is useful to obtain an archive extract from the watch manufacturer with a list of numbers.

Support with service, repair and warranty claims

While watches with the same reference or reference number sometimes have very different features, the serial number can be used to determine exactly which complications a watch has and which caliber it contains. During maintenance and repairs, watchmakers therefore always take a close look at this number, which provides them with direct answers to questions that are relevant to their work. And the validity of warranty claims on watches is also usually verified using the serial number.

Where can I find the serial number?

Unfortunately, the question of where to find the serial numbers on watches is not that easy to answer. Depending on the brand and model, the numbers are in different places. So you have to know where to look.

Typical positions for serial numbers on different watch models

Rolex

If you want to find the serial number on a Rolex watch, it helps to be able to roughly estimate the age of the watch. Rolex watches that are several decades old have the numbers between the lugs on the side of the case, so the strap has to be removed to read them. On newer Rolex models, the numbering has been on the bezel since 2007.

By the way: Since 2010, Rolex watches have been using random codes made up of letters and numbers for numbering, which is why the serial number without archive data no longer provides a direct indication of the age of the timepiece.

omega

If you look for the serial number on a fairly new Omega watch, you will find it between the horns or on the underside of the horns. Older models have the engraving on the inside of the case or the inside base. Less often, the serial number is prominently placed directly on the movement. This can be misleading, as it cannot be ruled out that the movement has been changed in the meantime, especially on older Omega models.

By the way: Regardless of where they are, the serial and reference numbers are usually shown in tiny letters. In order to be able to read the information correctly, we recommend using a magnifying glass.

Serial number verification

Now it gets exciting: How can you check the serial number of a model exactly? The following options are available:

Verify authenticity of serial number

Since many counterfeits nowadays also have serial numbers, it is important to look into the authenticity of the numbering. Fraudsters often use the same engraving for several watches. If you search the Internet for the respective code, you may accidentally come across clues that cast doubt on the authenticity of the watch. It also makes sense to find out about the typical places where the brands engrave the numbers. For example, if you know that the engraving on a Rolex watch should be on the bezel when it is young, but on your own piece it is on the bezel or even the dial, this also speaks against the authenticity of the watch.

Verification of the serial number in watch databases and registers

It is also possible to search for a serial number in watch databases and registers. Online databases often have a search function, which of course saves a lot of time. In contrast, analog registers have to be searched manually, which is comparatively laborious.

Comparison of the serial number with manufacturer information

If in doubt, many manufacturers can provide you with archive extracts to determine the age of wristwatches and to obtain information about a certain serial number. This way, the manufacturer can, for example, provide more precise information about individual features of the watch with the number in question.

Our conclusion

Whether it's a Breitling, Omega or Rolex watch: a wristwatch only has the expected value if it is an authentic original. For this reason, it is common practice among collectors to check the serial number before accepting an offer for a watch. A wise decision that can protect you from making a bad purchase. Unlike the reference number, the serial number can be clearly assigned to an individual watch and thus allows conclusions to be drawn about the age and authenticity of the watch.