Serial number
Also called serial
A serial number is the unique number a maker assigns to an individual watch, engraved on the case or movement, that distinguishes it from every other example of the same model.
It's the anchor of a watch's identity: it's what matches the watch to its papers, what a stolen-watch database checks, and what many city recordkeeping rules require you to record. On some watches it also helps date production.
Record and photograph the serial at intake, before any prep work. A missing, altered, or unreadable serial is a serious warning sign.
Related terms
Read more
ArticleWhat to check before you buy a used watchArticleWhat records does a watch dealer have to keep?Compliance guideWhat's specific to SeattleCompliance guideWatch dealing in Washington: records, holds, and taxCompliance guideWatch dealing in Pennsylvania: precious metals, second-hand watches, and tax
Where this comes up
Pages on this site that use the term.
- What's specific to AtlantaCompliance guide
- What's specific to North Las VegasCompliance guide
- Watch dealing in California: licensing, CAPSS, and taxCompliance guide
- Watch dealing in Illinois: the Resale Dealers ActCompliance guide
- What's specific to RenoCompliance guide
- What's specific to TucsonCompliance guide
Learn the trade, not just the word
Plain-English guides to buying, pricing and selling watches as a business. Free, and written to be used at the counter.