Glossary · Collecting
Serial number
The factory number on a movement, used for dating and grade research.
Explanation
The serial number is the movement's production sequence number, usually engraved on the plates. Where factory ledgers survive — Waltham, Elgin, Hamilton, Omega, Longines and others — serials date a movement closely. Where records are lost, serials give only rough dating, and published serial tables for some makers are reconstructed estimates that should be treated with caution.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Serial number”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Wristwatch
Audemars Piguet Automatic K2120 18K Yellow Gold Dress Watch
“This gentleman's dress wristwatch by Audemars Piguet is dated by the seller to circa 1967 based on serial numbers. The circular case is fashioned in 18K solid yellow gold, measu…”
Clock
Chronoscope no. 17757
“Catalogued under reference TCW 4019 by The Clockworks, this weight-driven electric chronoscope represents a short-duration precision timer designed by clockmaker and telegraph e…”
Pocket watch
James McCabe 1834 Gold Lepine Calibre Duplex Pocket Watch
“Suspended barrel is engraved 'Ja.s M.cCABE Royal Exchange London' and serial number '14328'.”
Pocket watch
1930s Seikosha Pocket Watch
“Serial Number: 15389”
Pocket watch
Pforzheimer, Dreyfus & Keller Fitch Patent Sterling Silver Pocket Watch Case #6175 with American Watch Co. Movement
“This pocket watch features a sterling silver clamshell case manufactured based on Ezra C. Fitch's design patented on June 9, 1874, and sold by Pforzheimer, Dreyfus & Keller. Bea…”
Pocket watch
Waltham Vanguard 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch
“This 16-size American railroad grade pocket watch was manufactured by the Waltham Watch Co around 1942. According to the seller, it is powered by a stem-wound, lever-set nickel …”