Breitling Serial Number Lookup
Breitling Serial Numbers & Production Dates Lookup Chart
On This Page
- Breitling Serial Number Chart (1944–1978)
- Iconic Breitling Models & Reference Numbers
- Decoding Breitling Reference Numbers
- Dating Modern Breitling Watches by Case Number
Breitling Serial Number Chart (1944–1978)
Breitling serial numbers from 1944–1978 were split into two separate ranges: chronograph watches had their own serial number sequence, and non-chronograph watches had a separate one. Non-chronograph production gaps (no watches produced) occurred in 1968, 1973, 1974, and 1978 — these will appear blank in the chart below.
We have found inaccurate serial number data on other websites. Please use the chart below as your reference.
Iconic Breitling Models & Reference Numbers
Below is a list of our personal favorite and rare Breitling models — including the Breitling 817 Italian Military Watch, the Navitimer 806 and 809, the Chronomat, and the Premier. We carry one of the finest collections of Breitling Triple Date Chronographs. Contact us for watches not yet listed.
The Breitling 817 was introduced in 1975 as a tool watch for Italian Army helicopter pilots, and in some rare cases issued to platoon commanders of the Battaglione Paracadutisti Carabinieri Tuscania.
1969 Vintage Breitling 1808 ChronoMat Automatic Chronograph — Cal 11, 48mm
Decoding Breitling Reference Numbers
Serial numbers and model reference numbers serve different purposes. Serial numbers are unique identifiers for each individual watch, providing production date, materials, and authenticity data. Model reference numbers identify the specific design within the Breitling lineup — including complications, case size, and dial variations.
From approximately 1990 onward, each Breitling reference number consists of 12 characters: the first six appear on the case back and encode case material, movement, COSC certification, and model; the last six encode finish, dial color, and dial pattern.
| Position | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Case material | A – Steel • B – Steel/gold riders • C – Rose gold bezel/steel • D – Yellow gold bezel/steel • E – Titanium • H – 18kt rose gold • K – 18kt yellow gold • R – Red gold • X – Breitlight® |
| 2, 3 | Movement | 10–49 – Mechanical • 50+ – Quartz |
| 4 | COSC Certified | 0 – Non-COSC • 3 – COSC Certified |
| 5, 6 | Model | Two digits representing the specific model |
| 7, 8 | Finish | 10 – Satin/brushed • 11 – No special finish • 12 – Polished • 13 – Satin & polished • 53 – Diamond bezel |
| 9 | Dial color | A – White/ivory • B – Black • C – Blue • G – Silver • H – Champagne • K – Red/burgundy • L – Green/turquoise • Q – Bronze/havana |
| 10, 11, 12 | Dial pattern | Three digits representing the specific dial design |
Example: A17376211L2S2 — Breitling Superocean Automatic 44
- A – Stainless steel bezel/case
- 173 – Caliber 17, COSC-certified automatic movement
- 76 – Superocean Automatic 44 model
- 21 – Polished finish
- L – Blue dial
- 2 – Dial design detail
- S2 – Blue rubber strap
Dating Modern Breitling Watches by Case Number
Recent Breitling models feature a case date code located between the bottom lugs. The code format is WWYR — week number followed by year. For example, 4304 on a SuperOcean Steelfish indicates the 43rd week of 2004 (approximately late October). This practice appears to have begun around 2001–2004 depending on the model.
Some watches from 2002–2003 do not display date codes. The B5 suffix (e.g., A7836223-B5-874) appears on many complete Breitling product numbers but its exact significance remains undocumented.
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Watch Guides & Resources
- Rolex Serial Number Lookup
- Tudor Serial Number Lookup
- Heuer Serial Number Guide
- Full Watch Guides Library
Sell or Trade Your Breitling Watch
We actively acquire exceptional vintage Breitling timepieces — Navitimers, Chronomats, Premiers, and military references. Get an honest market valuation, a transparent offer, and a seamless process from authentication to payment. Get an offer for your vintage watch →
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