Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (2024)

Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide

Tissot is a Swiss watch company with a long and rich history. It is not known for making the most luxurious watches, but the brand is respected, reputable, and known all around the world.

Tissot was founded in 1853 in Le Locle, Switzerland, making it one of the oldest Swiss watch manufacturers in the world. Most watch brands engrave their watches and give them unique serial numbers. Tissot is one such brand that uses serial numbers for its watches, but over the years, the company has changed its serial number formats.

The good news is that if you have an older, vintage Tissot watch, it will have a serial number, which makes it possible for you to date your Tissot watch.

Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (2)

By looking at the serial number, and taking help from this article, you will be able to estimate the time when your watch was originally manufactured. The good news is that dating your Tissot watch with the serial number is very easy.

Tissot serial numbers

In 1977, Tissot stopped with individual numbers. This meant leaving out the last three digits in the serial number. Further on, in 1984, Tissot stopped with this serial number format too.

As Tissot has made watches for so long, its serial formats and rules vary. The early Tissot watches have the serial number engraved on the edge of the plate, underneath the dial. Later on, Tissot started engraving the serial number on the plates or on a bridge.

Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (3)

For modern Tissot watches, some models have serial numbers and some don’t.

On other Tissot watches, you will see the serial number engravedonactual movement or on the inside or outside of the case back.

If you want to register your new Tissot watch online, you can sign up on their website via this link.

Below is a resource list of Tissot serial numbers that you can use to date your vintage Tissot watch. This list is for watches made from 1853 up until 1983

Date Tissot watches with serial number

  • 1853-1856: 1 to 3056
  • 1857-1879: 3057 to 19904
  • 1871-1875: 19905 to 36187
  • 1876-1880: 36188 to 51101
  • 1881-1885: 51102 to 79299
  • 1886-1890: 79300 to 96836
  • 1891-1896: 96837 to 100200
  • 1897-1906: 10960 to 51325
  • 1907-1910: 51326 to 58206
  • 1911-1912: 58207 to 83778
  • 1913-1916: 83779 to 112866
  • 1917-1918: 112867 to 139466
  • 1919-1920: 139447 to 201644
  • 1921-1922: 201645 to 250622
  • 1923-1924: 250623 to 290984
  • 1925-2926: 290985 to 365000
  • 1927-1928: 365001 to 434500
  • 1929-1930: 434501 to 465400
  • 1931-1933: 465401 to 511700
  • 1934-1936: 511701 to 727500
  • 1937-1939: 727501 to 1052800
  • 1940: 10552801 to 1128616
  • 1941: 1128617 to 1188976
  • 1942: 1188977 to 1324418
  • 1943: 1324419 to 1450276
  • 1944: 1450277 to 1549720
  • 1945: 1549721 to 1675720
  • 1946: 1675721 to 1746530
  • 1947: 1746531 to 1940110
  • 1948: 1940111 to 2140000
  • 1949: 2140001 to 2293210
  • 1950: 2293211 to 2432999
  • 1951: 2433000 to 2621999
  • 1952: 2622000 to 2810999
  • 1953: 2811000 to 3118999
  • 1954: 3119000 to 3289999
  • 1955: 3290000 to 3476999
  • 1956: 3477000 to 3713999
  • 1957: 3714000 to 399999
  • 1958: 4000000 to 4334999
  • 1959: 4335000 to 4559999
  • 1960: 4560000 to 4867999
  • 1961: 4868000 to 5197999
  • 1962: 5198000 to 5932999
  • 1963: 5933999 to 649899
  • 1964: 6499000 to 7039999
  • 1965: 7040000 to 8280999
  • 1966: 8281000 to 8864999
  • 1967: 8865000 to 9910999
  • 1968: 9911000 to 10492999
  • 1969: 10493000 to 11594999
  • 1970: 11595000 to 13046119
  • 1971: 13046120 to 139996999
  • 1972: 13997000 to 16173999
  • 1973: 16174000 to 16811999
  • 1974: 16812000 to 18902999
  • 1975: 18903000 to 19397999
  • 1976: 19398000 to 20030999
  • 1977: 20031 to 21093
  • 1978: 21094 to 21515
  • 1979: 21516 to 22097
  • 1980: 22098 to 22857
  • 1981: 22858 to 23238
  • 1982: 23239 to 23596
  • 1983: 23697 to 23905

Note: By looking at the above serial numbers, and comparing them with your own watch’s serial number, it will allow you to identify within which span your watch falls. As such, it allows you to date your watch. With that said, just because your watch has the correct span for its serial number, doesn’t mean that it is authentic.

Part of the information is from Tissot’s own vintage serial number resource. Whilst we strive to make this as correct as possible, some typos or misinformation may exist. This article is written for informational purposes. We are not affiliated with Tissot watch company.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
  1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (4)Manjunatha

    April 28, 2022

    I had TISSOT Watch

    TO49410B
    14BC0119807

    Please let me know when this model was launched in INDIA……?

    Reply

  2. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (5)Steve Brown

    May 4, 2022

    I have lost a lovely Tissot. I would like to search for a replacement if possible. All the information I have is.;
    Automatic, bought new around 2004
    Silver
    White face,
    Serrated bevel
    ‘Heavy bracelet’
    glass backplate,

    If I had the model type I may be able to find another

    Reply

  3. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (6)Jörg Lehmann

    September 23, 2022

    Hi
    Found a Tissot Seastar, blue dial, 17-Jewels during cleaning out after my mom .
    There is one number inside the back lid 35-36543-2x
    but also a number on the clockwork inside 1G163640
    Which is what? Appreciate your help.
    Kind regards
    Jörg

    Reply

    1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (7)Millenary Watches

      October 28, 2022

      Hi Jörg,
      It’s difficult to say without having seen pictures but the number on the movement would be the movement number. The movement on the inside of the back lid is normally the serial number.

      Kind regards,
      Millenary Watches

      Reply

    2. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (8)Craig

      April 3, 2023

      1956. Incase you never found out pal

      Reply

  4. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (9)Steven

    November 9, 2022

    Very helpful article! I’d like to buy a vintage Tissot from the 40/50ies. I’m confused as it has two different numbers (each 7 digits), one on the ouside of the case, the other one on the movement. Which one would be the official serial number? Thanks a lot.

    Reply

    1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (10)Millenary Watches

      November 14, 2022

      Hi,
      The number on the movement would be the movement number, not the serial number. The serial number would be the number located outside of the case.

      Kind regards,
      Millenary Watches

      Reply

  5. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (11)Doug Snyder

    November 12, 2022

    I have a seastar 7 purchased in Sydney Australia in 1968. The face is orange with black lines in place of numbers. Need to have it repaired, not working. Went through Vietnam War with me.

    Reply

    1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (12)Millenary Watches

      November 14, 2022

      Hi,
      Most watchmakers will be able to repair this type of watch. You can turn to any watchmaker and they will be able to assist you with a repair.

      Kind regards,
      Millenary Watches

      Reply

  6. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (13)Joanne

    November 17, 2022

    Hi, I have a ladies Tissot with leather strap on it serial number 16818 and a code of C226k not sure if it’s valuable

    Reply

    1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (14)Millenary Watches

      November 17, 2022

      Hi,
      The reference number (model number) is C226k.
      The value is maximum 100 dollars, likely around 50-100.

      Kind regards,
      Millenary Watches

      Reply

  7. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (15)Dan

    January 29, 2023

    Looking to buy one from a reseller in Thailand. Model is TISSOT LE LOCLE POWERMATIC 80, and the shop is asking only around 120 USD. Is it too good to be true. Have a serial number 16BL7790088.

    Reply

    1. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (16)Millenary Watches

      January 30, 2023

      Hi,
      Yes, this sounds too good to be true considering the retail price is around 600 dollars but there are bargains out there. It could be fake but it’s very difficult to say without more information. If you can, you need to take it to a watchmaker to have it authenticated if you do decide to buy it.

      Kind regards,
      Millenary Watches

      Reply

  8. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (17)Patryk

    February 10, 2023

    Hello, I have an old womens watch with a serial number 17006-9. Is it worth anything? How to proparly read the number?

    Reply

  9. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (18)Gordon Dallow

    February 21, 2023

    hi, i have a tissot gold Ballade model number c271/377w can you tell me if genuine.
    thanks

    gordon

    Reply

  10. Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (19)Richard Johnson

    March 6, 2023

    Hi what value is a tissot tachometer
    Serial no.
    17AB0868599. Much appreciated
    Regards
    Rich.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Tissot Serial Number Complete Guide - Millenary Watches (2024)

FAQs

How do I find out what model my Tissot watch is? ›

Later on, Tissot started engraving the serial number on the plates or on a bridge. For modern Tissot watches, some models have serial numbers and some don't. On other Tissot watches, you will see the serial number engraved on actual movement or on the inside or outside of the case back.

Are Tissot watches valuable? ›

Tissot is considered a Swiss luxury brand

The brand is from an area of Switzerland that is famed for watchmaking expertise and heritage. This association elevates Tissot to luxury status and emphasises the brand's watchmaking excellence. These factors make Tissot watches very desirable for many collectors.

What does PRC stand for on a Tissot watch? ›

Tissot have taken all the best bits from its current PRC 200 range and made a watch that does exactly what it promises to do. With P meaning Precise, R meaning robust, C meaning Classic and 200 standing for 200 metres water resistant, what better watch for the world's most intense sporting event.

Are Tissot watches made by Rolex? ›

Tissot SA operate under the worlds biggest Swiss timepiece manufacturer, the Swatch Group, and have done so since 1983. The Swatch Group are also known for their extensive line of high-end jewelry and Swatch watches.

What does the model number on a watch mean? ›

A watch's model number is a unique set of numbers given to specific watches. Model numbers are used to differentiate a watch from other timepieces made by the same timepiece manufacture. For example, all of Rolex's Oyster Perpetual 39mm watches with a white dial and Oystersteel metal will have the same model number.

How can I tell how old my watch is? ›

The watch serial number will tell you the estimated date of production of a watch and help trace authenticity. Therefore when it comes to estimating the value of your watch or buying a pre-owned luxury watch, the serial number is the most important of the two.

Which is more expensive Tissot or Rolex? ›

Basically the Rolex costs 9 times more than the Tissot, but based on my explanation you can now understand what all that extra money accounts for. This Tissot uses an ETA Powermatic movement, which is based on an architecture that was designed at least in 1982, if not earlier.

Where does Tissot rank in watches? ›

RankBrand24h Rank Change
8.Casio↓7
9.Fossil↓6
10.Omega↓8
11.Tissot↓7
14 more rows

Is Tissot more expensive than Seiko? ›

One striking thing about Seiko and Tissot is their affordability. Seiko's timepieces cost between $180 and $7,000. While Tissot watches can be gotten for around $200 for the most affordable ones.

Are Tissot watches numbered? ›

On the back of each Tissot watch, you can find the reference number corresponding to the family of product. It always starts with T, and is followed by 6 to 13 numbers.

Is Tissot a premium brand? ›

Yes, Tissot is considered a luxury brand. The watchmaker was founded in 1853, in Le Locle, Switzerland, which is thought of as a center of the watchmaking industry. The brand uses high-end materials and produces pieces in accordance with rigorous quality standards.

Is my Tissot authentic? ›

Look at the crown or winding handle – If the watch has the mark letter T on the crown, verify whether it is engraved or just stuck on. Genuine Tissot have an engraved letter on the crown.

What brand is better than Tissot? ›

Longines has the upper hand when it comes to brand recognition and producing high-quality, luxurious watches. The Longines brand has more to offer to watch enthusiasts compared to Tissot. Exquisite Timepieces offers a wide variety of Longines and Tissot watches depending on ones' personal preference and taste.

What celebrities wear Tissot watches? ›

Founded in Switzerland in 1853, Tissot has a long history of producing high-quality and stylish watches. Some notable celebrities who have been seen wearing Tissot watches include actor George Clooney, basketball player LeBron James, and singer Justin Bieber.

Why is Tissot expensive? ›

Why is Tissot so expensive? Tissot watches are expensive because they are made in Switzerland, by a well-respected company with incredible attention to detail in both the design and materials. You also get great quality and stylish designs with Tissot watches, which makes them more expensive.

How do I find out what my watch is worth? ›

Using Online Resources To Determine Value
  1. Watch brand websites.
  2. Model-launch press releases.
  3. Collector forums & boards.
  4. Auction sites (such as eBay)
  5. The chrono24 marketplace.

Is model number different from serial number? ›

A model number refers to all of a single product. For example, all 32GB SanDisk Extreme SD cards of the same generation have the same model number. A serial number references a single, specific product. So, there can be hundreds or even thousands of the same model number made.

What is a watch code? ›

The Electronics Watch Code sets out the standards for the production of goods purchased by its affiliates. The standards in this Code are general enough that they capture the widest possible range of violations, but also specific enough to be easily interpreted and enforced.

Is a 20 year old watch vintage? ›

Generally speaking, the market for vintage is on the rise, but there is no hard and fast rule as to what qualifies a watch as vintage. Some people think it is pre-1980, while others will argue that anything over 25 years old or 50 years old is vintage.

How old is considered vintage watch? ›

What exactly is vintage? The definition of what makes a watch vintage can vary widely, but it's generally said to be anything 25-30 years old, or older.

How to read serial numbers? ›

The 1st number is the YEAR of manufacture; the 2nd & 3rd numbers indicate the MONTH of manufacture. Please see the detailed explanation and examples provided below.

What is special about Tissot watches? ›

Tactile technology

Tissot developed the first tactile watch 20 years ago. This high-tech feature improves watch ergonomics and makes it unique and intuitive to use. The technology offers an array of functionalities ‒ compass, altimeter, weather, alarm, chronograph ‒ without an abundance of buttons or complex sub-menus.

Is TAG Heuer or Tissot better? ›

Tissot has versatility in its catalog, while Tag Heuer is more accurate and has higher water resistance. Racing car lovers appreciate both brands. Tissot holds the crown for offering a wide range of timepiece styles and models at relatively affordable costs. However, Tag Heuer surpasses Tissot in most features.

Are Tissot watches fancy? ›

Tissot is a luxury watch brand known for its high-quality and affordable luxury watches, as well as its tactile T-Touch technology.

What level brand is Tissot? ›

Tissot is often described as an entry-level Swiss luxury watch brand. The brand's owners, Swatch Group, class them as mid-range market watches. Expect to find them priced above most high-street brands, but below other Swiss brands like Longines, Omega and Rolex.

Are Tissot watches really made in Switzerland? ›

All Tissot watches are certified with the "Swiss Made" quality label, testimony of know-how, impeccable quality, perfect aesthetics and technical innovations.

Is TAG Heuer more expensive than Tissot? ›

The Tag Heuer brand is more expensive, and narrower in selection but has built a strong reputation over time within the racing world and with their chronograph models. If one would have to categorize either brand as a luxury brand, the scales are tilted in Heuer's favor.

How long do Tissot watches last? ›

In ideal conditions, the watch has a battery life of up to 6 months if connected and 10 years if used independently (without the app).

Is Movado a luxury watch brand? ›

Is Movado a Luxury Watch Brand? Movado is an expensive brand that produces a mix of fashion watches and luxury watches. The prices of some of its watches can exceed expectations in some circ*mstances, which is why many watch enthusiasts remain on the fence with regard to its quality-to-price ratio.

What are the 3 dials on a Tissot watch? ›

  • Crown with 3 positions (9) :
  • I Neutral position (screwed down*, not pulled out)
  • II Setting position for date (unscrewed*, half pulled out)
  • III Setting position for time (unscrewed*, completely pulled out)
  • IA Initial position (screwed down, not pulled out)
  • IB Neutral position (unscrewed, not pulled out)

Are Tissot watches quartz or mechanical? ›

Tissot Gentleman

The Gentleman can be had with either the grab-and-go convenience of Swiss Quartz movement or the more enthusiast-oriented Powermatic 80 automatic movement. Regardless of the movement choice, the Gentleman line features a 40mm case and a solid 100m of water resistance.

Do Tissot watches need servicing? ›

It is recommended by Tissot that their quartz watches receive a battery service every 2 years and all watches receive a complete service every 5 to 6 years. However, if the watch is suitable for swimming and diving and is used in water they also recommend the water resistance of the watch is tested on an annual basis.

What is the new name of Tissot? ›

Tissot SA (French pronunciation: ​[ti'so]) is a luxury Swiss watchmaker. The company was founded in Le Locle, Switzerland by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son, Charles-Émile Tissot, in 1853. After several mergers and name changes, the group which Tissot SA belonged to was renamed the Swatch Group in 1998.

Do celebrities wear Tissot? ›

Founded in Switzerland in 1853, Tissot has a long history of producing high-quality and stylish watches. Some notable celebrities who have been seen wearing Tissot watches include actor George Clooney, basketball player LeBron James, and singer Justin Bieber.

Is Tissot entry level? ›

Is Tissot an entry-level luxury watch? Tissot has watches coming in at under $500. Some of Tissot's most popular watch brands which are considered entry-level luxury watches include; the Tissot Chrono xl, Tissot Classic Dream, and Tissot Carson among others.

How can I tell if my Tissot watch is real? ›

Look at the crown or winding handle – If the watch has the mark letter T on the crown, verify whether it is engraved or just stuck on. Genuine Tissot have an engraved letter on the crown.

How many years does a Tissot watch last? ›

In ideal conditions, the watch has a battery life of up to 6 months if connected and 10 years if used independently (without the app).

Which is better automatic or Powermatic? ›

An automatic watch is powered by the energy of the person who wears it. Wrist movement enables the mechanism to run. The Powermatic 80 movement boasts 80 hours of power reserve, which is enough to continue telling time accurately even if the watch is not worn for three days.

What are the numbers on the back of a Tissot watch? ›

On the back of each Tissot watch, you can find the reference number corresponding to the family of product. It always starts with T, and is followed by 6 to 13 numbers.

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