Check watch serial number

Anyone looking to purchase a high-quality watch or who has inherited a chronograph will naturally want to find out as much as possible about the timepiece. One important feature that can unlock all sorts of relevant information about their watch is the serial number. Unlike the reference number or model number, which many watches of a particular type may have, the serial number is unique. In this article, we explain exactly what this special number can determine, what role it plays, and how to verify it.

Why is the serial number important?

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

Identification of the genuineness and authenticity of the watch

The unique number can be used to determine a watch's authenticity, which has a very direct impact on its value. The first and simplest step is to compare the number engraved on the watch with the serial number recorded on the certificate of authenticity. If a discrepancy is noticed, this would be an indication that the watch may be counterfeit. Further options for verifying authenticity based on the serial number will be discussed later in this article.

Tracing the origin and history of the clock

Additionally, the serial number can reveal the approximate age of the watch, whereas the paperwork often only reveals the date of sale. For many major brands, such as Omega, Breitling , and, in the past, Rolex, it's common practice for certain numeral ranges to be used exclusively during specific periods or even just in a single year of production. To determine the age of a luxury watch, it's 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 can have very different features, the serial number can be used to determine exactly which complications a watch contains and which caliber it houses. During maintenance and repairs, watchmakers therefore always take a close look at this number, which provides them with direct answers to questions relevant to their work. The validity of warranty claims is also usually verified using the serial number.

Where can I find the serial number?

Unfortunately, the question of where to find serial numbers on watches isn't that easy to answer. Depending on the brand and model, the numbers are located 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 identify the serial number on a Rolex watch, it helps to have a rough estimate of the watch's age. Rolex watches that are several decades old have the numerals located between the lugs on the side of the case, requiring the strap to be removed to read them. On newer Rolex models, the numbering has been located on the bezel since 2007.

By the way: Since 2010, Rolex watches have been using random codes consisting 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're looking for the serial number on a fairly new Omega watch, you'll find it between the lugs or on the underside of the lugs. Older models have the engraving on the inside of the case or on the inside back cover. Less commonly, the serial number occupies a prominent position directly on the movement. This can be misleading, as a movement change cannot be ruled out, especially in older Omega models.

By the way: Regardless of their location, the serial and reference numbers are usually printed in tiny print. To be able to read the information accurately, we recommend using a magnifying glass.

Serial number verification

Now it gets interesting: How can you accurately check the serial number of a model? Here are some options:

Verify authenticity of serial number

Since many counterfeits today also have serial numbers, it's important to consider the authenticity of the numbering. Fraudsters often use the same engraving on multiple watches. If you search the internet for the respective code, you may accidentally stumble upon clues that cast doubt on the authenticity of the watch. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the typical locations where brands engrave the numbers. For example, if you know that the engraving on a Rolex watch should be found on the bezel when it's new, but on your own watch it's 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's also possible to search for a serial number in watch databases and registers. Online databases often have a search function, which naturally saves a lot of time. In contrast, analog registers require a comparatively laborious manual search.

Comparison of the serial number with manufacturer information

If in doubt, many manufacturers offer archive extracts for determining the age of wristwatches and provide information about a specific serial number. This allows the manufacturer to provide more detailed information about individual features of the watch with the requested numbering.

Our conclusion

Whether it's a Breitling, Omega, or Rolex watch, a wristwatch only has the expected value if it's an authentic original. For this reason, it's common practice among collectors to check the serial number before accepting an offer for a watch. This is a wise decision that can protect you from many a mistake. Unlike the reference number, the serial number can be uniquely assigned to a single watch, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the watch's age and authenticity.