The Secret Codes of Patek Philippe: Date Codes - Collectability (2024)

FAQs

How to check Patek Philippe serial number? ›

Checking the serial number of a Patek Philippe timepiece is easy—especially if it has a sapphire crystal case back or if it's simply see-through. On the inside, you'll find the serial number engraved. Also, you'll likewise find the reference number there too.

Patek Philippe incorporates several unique identifiers to authenticate their watches. These include engraved serial numbers, hallmarks, and the Patek Philippe seal. Genuine Patek Philippe watches also come with detailed documentation, including certificates of authenticity and warranty cards.

Patek's number structure typically follows a loose format that looks something like this: 5726/1A-014, although most people refer to the models by their first four digits because they're often much easier to remember. Additionally, models from the same collection seem to share the first two digits most of the time.

Patek Philippe is known for its unmatched craftsmanship. Skilled artisans take great care in designing and assembling each watch, made up of around 252 pieces. This attention to detail ensures that Patek Philippe timepieces hold their value over the years and often even increase in worth.

For 130 years now, a graphic symbol associated with the name Patek Philippe has been enthusing connoisseurs and aficionados of high-end watchmaking artistry. It is the Calatrava cross that the venerable Genevan manufacture officially registered as its legally protected trademark on April 27, 1887.

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The movement number is engraved in the movement of your watch. The case number is engraved on the inside of the case back.

Authentic Patek Philippe watches will be have crisp and evenly spaced printing, free from misspellings. Apart from skeletonized models, real Patek Philippe watches do not have a visible tourbillon or balance wheels on the dial. All modern Patek Philippe watches use sapphire crystals.

How to date a Patek Philippe watch? ›

The top code is the date the watch left the factory (PHOE = 05/73); and the second is for the date the watch arrived at the Japanese distributor (JPOOE = Japan 07/73); and then we see the date of the sale shortly after in 09/73. The Date code system: PNNT = 0882 = August 1982.

Patek Philippe Official Site. Luxury Watches for Men & Ladies.

There is a difference between the reference number and the serial number, where the reference number contains some specific features, while the serial number is unique and dedicated to just one watch, while there are more watches available bearing the same reference number.

Model Numbers

This number can be found engraved between the lugs on the side of the case above 12 o'clock. The model number can indicate the model type, bezel, and material of your watch. For example, the reference number 16234 can be broken out into three section, which is 162 | 3 | 4.