Tools
CloseWhat year is my IWC?
Pick the brand. Type the number. We’ll tell you when it was most likely made.
Schaffhausen kept good books until the mid-1970s.
How well the number tells the year
ClearlyClear up to 1975 from the movement number. After that, the model does the talking.
Where to look
- The movement number is on the movement.
- The reference, like IW3706, is on the case back and the warranty card.
Ask the maker
To the best of our knowledge, IWC offers a certificate of authenticity through its boutiques.
Questions
Where is the serial number on IWC watches?
The movement number is on the movement. The reference, like IW3706, is on the case back and the warranty card.
Can the serial number tell me when my IWC was made?
Clear up to 1975 from the movement number. After that, the model does the talking. Schaffhausen kept good books until the mid-1970s.
Does IWC keep official records of its watches?
To the best of our knowledge, IWC offers a certificate of authenticity through its boutiques.
Does a matching serial number prove my IWC is genuine?
No. Real serial numbers are copied onto fakes, so a number that looks right proves nothing on its own. This lookup only estimates when a watch was made. For a proper opinion on authenticity, have the watch inspected with the case back open.
Every answer here is approximate and given to the best of our knowledge, from charts published by dealers and collectors. Watchmakers rarely publish their own.
A correct number doesn’t prove a watch is genuine. For a proper opinion on your watch, bring it in for an inspection, or read how to tell if a watch is genuine.
What you type stays on your device. Nothing is sent to us or anyone else. Please don’t post your full serial number online.
Last checked against the published charts on 5 November 2026.