To determine the age of your watch, you will need to open your watch and find the serial number on the watchs movement. This crucial figure will indicate the manufacture date. (Unfortunately, you cannot rely on the number stamped outside on the watch case which is largely used only for identification purposes.)

How do you date a wrist watch?

The best way to identify the date of manufacture of a watch is to locate the serial number on the watchs movement. The movement is the spring-loaded mechanism the runs and regulates the timepiece. Comparing the number to the manufacturers listings can date the manufacture to the approximate year.

How do you read a watch serial number?

The serial number of your watch is engraved on the case at the 6 oclock end between the lugs. You will need to remove the bracelet/strap to see it. The model reference is engraved in the same place at the 12 oclock end.

What does a watch serial number mean?

The serial number is a unique identifier for the category of your watch, its model year, and the specific number of your watch in the production run.

Are there serial numbers on watches?

The serial number is engraved on the case back of almost every watch. Older Rolex models have it between the lugs at 6 oclock while newer models have it on the inner bezel. This number is unique to every watch and can tell you when it was produced.

Are the jewels in a watch worth anything?

Watch sellers often try to attract their customers with the supposed value of these pieces of jewels in the watch, but they are almost not valuable at all, at least not economically speaking. Today, they are not even natural gems, but artificially manufactured sapphire or ruby, called corundum.

Is a watch serial number unique?

Do not confuse your watchs model number with its serial number or movement number. Serial numbers are unique to each watch and movement numbers refer to the mechanism that operates that watch. However, there is no risk in sharing your watchs model number.

What are the jewels in a watch for?

Jewels or gemstones were introduced in watch movements to reduce friction at points of heaviest wear and tear. When metal rubs against metal, and when oil meant for lubrication breaks down, the damage to pivots and bearings can be severe.

How do I find the name of my watch?

The model number is located between the watch lugs under the bracelet. One set of lugs displays the watch serial number and the other will show the watch model number.

Can I Overwind a watch?

In most cases, no, you cannot overwind a modern automatic watch. The smart design on these winding mechanisms allow for any excess tension to be released as the spring slips inside of the barrel.