The best way to identify the date of manufacture of a watch is to locate the serial number on the watchs movement. The movement is the spring-loaded mechanism the runs and regulates the timepiece. Comparing the number to the manufacturers listings can date the manufacture to the approximate year.

How can you tell if a watch is antique?

If you want to identify the age of your old watches, look for their serial numbers – this number is typically on the back of the watch. The serial number on a watch will help you match it to the date it was made, as well as its manufacturer.

What do the numbers on the back of a watch mean?

The various numbers on your watch generally serve to date it and to prove its authenticity. While the reference or model number stands for the whole watch, components like the case and movement also have numbers. They tend to be used to determine if a particular component is an original part of the watch.

Are antique watches valuable?

Antique watches in their original boxes, with a certificate of authenticity, are much easier to value. Selling antique watches can be risky. As theyre not generally mass-produced, they are often unique and high value. More importantly, theyre gold dust to fraudsters.

What are the watches called where you can see the gears?

Watches with visible gears are often called Skeleton Watches because the dial is removed in order to expose the “skeletonized” mechanical internals. If youre captivated by these tiny machines, youll be happy to know that a quality visible-gear watch can be had for relatively cheap.

What are the inner workings of a watch called?

The internal mechanism of a watch, excluding the face and hands, is called the movement. All mechanical watches have these five parts: A mainspring, which stores mechanical energy to power the watch.