Knowing your watch’s model number is important for a variety of reasons. Whether you are preparing to get your watch serviced or want to sell your timepiece, the model number will allow everyone to understand exactly what kind of watch you have.
This is especially helpful with brands that create very similar watches with only slight variations. If you are wondering how you can find your watch’s model number, keep reading as we cover some of the most popular timepiece brands.
What Is A Watch Model Number?
A watch’s model number is a unique set of numbers given to specific watches. Model numbers are used to differentiate a watch from other timepieces made by the same timepiece manufacturer.
For example, all of Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual 39mm watches with a white dial and Oystersteel metal will have the same model number.
How And Where To Find A Watch’s Model Number?
1. Papers
The first way to find the watch model number is to consult the watch's paperwork. The official papers that came with your watch upon its purchase will contain your watch’s model number.
Not every brand will refer to the model number as such, for example, some brands use the term 'reference number'. Ensure that you understand the terminology for your watch’s brand.
2. Warranty Card
If your watch’s warranty card was properly completed upon your watch’s purchase then the model number will be listed.
3. The Watch’s Case
Certain brands have their watch’s model number printed on the case. While no two brands are the same, you might be able to find watch model number printed on the case back of one timepiece but not on another.
Below are some of the most popular watch brands and where you can find their model number:
Omega
With Omega, you have two options for finding out your watch’s model number. Your first option is to use the serial number on the back of the case and input it into Omega’s database which will tell you its respective model number. The section option requires a professional to open the case and read the model number inside.
Rolex
Obtaining the model number from Rolex watches can be tricky because the model number is located between the watch lugs under the bracelet/strap. In order to see the model number, the watch’s bracelet/strap will need to be removed.
One lug will show the watch’s serial number and the other lug will have the watch’s model number. It is best to have the bracelet/strap removed by a professional to prevent any unnecessary damage.
Tudor
Similar to Rolex, Tudor watches have their model number hidden under the bracelet/strap and printed beside the lugs. You will need to have the watch’s bracelet/strap removed in order to see the model number.
Your best option is to work with a watchmaker who can safely remove the bracelet/strap and allow you to read the model number.
Cartier
Cartier watches will have 4 digits printed on the watch’s case back. These 4 numbers are part of the watch’s longer model number and indicate what the watch’s case looks like. Multiple watches with the same type of case can have the same 4 numbers but be composed of different materials.
You can look up the 4 digits in Cartier’s reference book on watches which can be found online or in a library. However, some of Cartier’s vintage pieces and quartz watches do not have a number on the case back.
Tag Heuer
Tag Heuer model numbers are easy to find as they are printed on the back of the case. Be careful not to mix the model number up with the serial number as this is on the case back as well.
Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe is another brand that requires a watchmaker’s assistance in obtaining the model number. The watch’s model number is printed inside the case while its serial number is on the case back.
Chopard
Chopard watches have 4 digits on their watch’s case back. These numbers are part of a longer model number which can be found on the watch’s paperwork.
If you no longer have the paper work you can meet with a professional watchmaker who will be able to identify the watch model with these digits.
Jaeger Le-Coultre
Jaeger Le-Coultre have their model numbers printed on the case back.
Breitling
Breitling watches have their model number on the case back. The paper work for these watches will also contain this number with additional digits that designate the specific design of the watch.
Bulgari
Bulgari watches have their model number on the case back.
For vintage timepieces and current watches whose model number you cannot find, you can consult a professional horologist who can assist you in pinpointing the watch’s exact model.
Common Mistakes
Here are some of the most common mistakes that people make when trying to find their watch’s model number:
- Do not confuse your watch’s 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.
- Some people are hesitant to share their watch’s model number because of scammers who will make these numbers to make counterfeit watches. However, there is no risk in sharing your watch’s model number.
Where Can I Buy A Luxury Watch Online?
If you are in the market for a new watch, myGemma is your answer. With a wide range of luxury watch brands on offer, there is a timepiece for everyone and every occasion. myGemma sells watches for women and watches for men.
Each watch on our website has been assessed and authenticated by one of our in-house experts.
How Can I Sell My Watch?
With your watch’s model number, you are a step closer towards selling your watch. When you work with online expert watch buyers like myGemma, we can provide you with a tight offer for your watch. Our luxury timepiece experts can accurately evaluate your watch based on the second-hand market.
Our free and secure service has earned us and A+ rating from the BBB and hundreds of positive customer reviews.
When you sell your watch with myGemma, our process is so fast that you can receive payment in as little as 24 hours after completing our online form. Best of all, there are no hidden fees or commissions that will deduct from your final offer.
Sell Your Watch To myGemma In 5 Simple Steps:
- Complete our online form
- Receive your price quote
- Ship your watch to us with our free, fully insured and overnight shipping service or schedule an appointment in New York or London
- Receive your final offer
- Accept your offer and receive payment through check, wire or cash (in-person appointments only) or have your watch mailed back to you free of charge
