Breitling Serial Number Lookup
Breitling Serial Numbers and Production Dates Lookup
Experts Watches - Breitling watches serial number lookup Breitling Serial Numbers 1944 – 1978. Breitling Serial numbers were differentiated into two factors: Chronograph watches had their own serial numbers range and non-chronograph watches had their own serial numbers range. The non-chronograph serial number watches had a few years that were not being produced and will show blank in the quick reference guide are 168, 1973,1974, and 1978. We have found some wrong information on other sites so please use the chart below.
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Breitling Serial Numbers vs. Model Reference Numbers
Although both serial numbers and model reference numbers are essential for identifying Breitling watches, they fulfill different functions. Serial numbers serve as unique identifiers for each individual Breitling watch, providing insights into the production date, materials used, and authenticity of the watch. In contrast, model reference numbers are specific to each design within the Breitling lineup. They denote the particular model within a collection and include details regarding complications, case size, and dial variations. For example, a Breitling Navitimer may carry a model reference such as "A13324," which precisely indicates the specific version of the Breitling Navitimer in question.
| Digit | Meaning | Example references |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Case material | A – Steel bezel/case |
| B – Steel bezel/case/gold riders | ||
| C – Rose gold bezel/steel case | ||
| D – Yellow gold bezel/steel case | ||
| E – Titanium bezel/case | ||
| F – 18kt bezel/titanium case | ||
| G – White gold bezel/steel case | ||
| H – 18kt rose gold bezel/case | ||
| J – 18kt white gold bezel/case | ||
| K – 18kt yellow gold bezel/case | ||
| L – Platinum bezel/steel case | ||
| M – Blacksteel bezel/case | ||
| N – Carbon case | ||
| P – Platinum bezel/steel case | ||
| R – Red gold bezel/case | ||
| T – Palladium bezel/case | ||
| V – Black titanium bezel/case | ||
| X - Breitlight® case | ||
| Y – Ceramic bezel/steel case | ||
| 2, 3 | Movement | 10–49 – Mechanical movements |
| 50+ - Quartz movements | ||
| 4 | COSC Certified | 0 – Non-COSC certified |
| 3 – COSC Certified | ||
| 5, 6 | Model | Two numbers of no pattern are used to represent the model type. |
| 7, 8 | Finish | 10 – Satin/brushed/titanium finish |
| 11 – No special finish | ||
| 12 – Polished finish | ||
| 13 – Satin and polished finish | ||
| 53 – Diamond bezel | ||
| 9 | Dial color | A – Mother of pearl, white, beige, ivory, arctica |
| B – Black, anthracite, diamond black, royal ebony | ||
| C – Blue, moroccan blue, meteor, neptune blue, peacock blue | ||
| E – Rhodium | ||
| F – Slate, slate-grey | ||
| G – Silver, silver storm | ||
| H – Champagne, amber, desert dune | ||
| I – Yellow | ||
| J – Smoke grey | ||
| K – Red, burgundy, sunset, rose | ||
| L – Green, turquoise, laurel green, spruce | ||
| M – Graphite, titanium | ||
| O – Coral | ||
| Q – Bronze, havana, grey violet, burnt oak | ||
| 10, 11, 12 | Dial Pattern | Three digits of no pattern are used to represent the model type. |
Here is an example of how to break down a Breitling watch’s reference number code: A17376211L2S2 - Breitling Superocean Automatic 44
-
A – Steel Bezel/Case
The "A" indicates that the case and bezel are made of stainless steel, which is common for Breitling Superocean models. -
173 – Movement Type
The "173" part still represents the Breitling Caliber 17 movement, a COSC-certified automatic movement. -
762 – Model Type
This refers to the Breitling Superocean Automatic 44, a professional-grade dive watch known for its water resistance and robust design. -
1 – Polished or Brushed Finish
The number "1" indicates the polished finish on the stainless steel case. -
L – Dial Color
In this case, "L" stands for a blue dial, not green. The dial is a striking blue, which is a defining characteristic of this specific model. -
2 – Dial Design
The "2" refers to specific details of the dial design, which could include elements like the layout of the markers or luminescence details. -
S2 – Strap Material and Color
The "S2" represents the strap. The "S" signifies a rubber strap, and the "2" indicates the blue color of the strap, matching the dial.
Both numbers (reference and serial) are essential when evaluating or purchasing a Breitling watch. The serial number confirms the watch's unique identity and production details, while the model reference ensures you're getting the exact version you desire. Together, they form a comprehensive ID for your Breitling, crucial for accurate valuation, maintenance, and appreciation of your timepiece.
Dating Modern Breitling watch with the Case Number
It is a relatively obscure fact that recent Breitling models feature case dating located between the bottom lugs. While I have encountered sporadic discussions about this on various forums, there has been a lack of substantial images and detailed information on the subject. This article aims to address that gap.
Displayed on the right is a photograph showcasing the case date situated between the lugs of a 2004 SuperOcean Steelfish. The code 4304 signifies the 43rd week of 2004, indicating a date around late October. Below is the picture of the Case Dating.
I am not entirely certain when Breitling initiated the practice of case-dating their timepieces, but I would estimate that it began around 2004, possibly as early as 2003 for most models. I have received accounts suggesting that some watches may have featured case dating as early as 2001; for instance, a user reported a Crosswind Special with a date code of 4701 B3, while another mentioned a SuperOcean A17340 with a date code of 1501 B5. Interestingly, some of the newer watches I possess from 2002 and 2003 do not display any date codes. The significance of the B5 designation remains unclear, although many complete Breitling product numbers include a B5 suffix following the full model number (e.g., A7836223-B5-874).
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