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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Serial-number guide

Breitling Serial Numbers

Needs research

What a Breitling serial number can establish, what it cannot, and how to record a date estimate another researcher could check.

Diagram

maker or gradeserialcase hallmarksimport and assay marks
Schematic: where markings are found. An outline schematic drawn to show the arrangement of the parts discussed here. It is not a dimensioned working drawing and does not depict a particular maker's calibre.

Method

Reading the number, step by step

  1. 1. Find the movement number

    The case serial and reference number are the dating and model keys; the movement number belongs to the movement supplier.

  2. 2. Understand what it encodes

    Vintage case serials are commonly used to estimate production period; movements are frequently sourced ébauches with their own supplier numbering.

  3. 3. Judge how precise the date can be

    Estimated: community case-serial ranges are approximate and should be cross-checked against reference, calibre and dial evidence.

  4. 4. Check the records behind the tables

    Case serial numbers are the main collector reference for vintage models; community compilations derive approximate periods from observed examples.

Quick facts

Manufacturer
Breitling
Dating confidence
Estimate only — see notes
Editorial status
Needs research

Sources & references

  1. Collector compilations of Breitling case serials (secondary, approximate)
  2. Published monographs on chronograph history

Where sources disagree, the disagreement is stated rather than resolved silently.

Limits

What the number does not prove

Questions

Frequently asked

Where is the serial number on a Breitling watch?
The case serial and reference number are the dating and model keys; the movement number belongs to the movement supplier.
What do Breitling serial numbers mean?
Vintage case serials are commonly used to estimate production period; movements are frequently sourced ébauches with their own supplier numbering.
How accurate is dating a Breitling watch by serial number?
Estimated: community case-serial ranges are approximate and should be cross-checked against reference, calibre and dial evidence.
Where are Breitling production records held?
Case serial numbers are the main collector reference for vintage models; community compilations derive approximate periods from observed examples.

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