How to Look Up a Tudor Serial Number: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tudor watches are celebrated for their quality and heritage, association with Rolex. For collectors and enthusiasts, knowing the production year of a Tudor watch can add both historical significance and value to the timepiece. One of the most reliable methods to determine the production year is by looking up the serial number. This guide will walk you through the process of finding and decoding your pre 2002 Tudor watch’s serial number to unlock its production year and more.
Tudor Production Year Locator
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Tudor Serial Numbers
Tudor serial numbers serve as unique identifiers for each watch, usually engraved on the case between the lugs at the 6 o’clock position. These numbers aren’t random; they follow a specific sequence that can indicate the approximate year of production. Over the decades, Tudor has employed different serial number ranges, and understanding these can offer insights into the age and authenticity of your watch.
Key Points to Remember:
- Early Tudor Watches (1940s – 1950s): Serial numbers range from 40,000 to 140,000.
- Late 1950s Onwards: Serial numbers follow a sequential pattern.
- Mid-1980s Reset: Tudor restarted its numbering system, introducing a new series.
- Post-2002: Tudor began using random serial numbers, and currently, there is no database available to estimate the production year for watches made after 2002
2. Locating the Serial Number
To find the serial number on Tudor watches made before 2002, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Remove the bracelet or strap from your watch, particularly at the 6 o’clock position.
- Step 2: Look between the lugs on the case. You should see the serial number engraved there.
- Step 3: Write down the serial number for future reference.
Tip: Be gentle when removing the strap to avoid scratching or damaging the case or lugs
3. Decoding the Serial Number
With the serial number in hand, you can begin decoding it to determine the approximate production year. Either use the Chart below or use our Tudor production year locator.
Tudor Watch Production Years by Serial Number
| Serial Number | Year of Production |
|---|---|
| 40,000 – 140,000 | 1940 – 1956 |
| 170,000 | 1957 |
| 200,000 | 1958 |
| 280,000 | 1959 |
| 310,000 | 1960 |
| 340,000 | 1961 |
| 360,000 | 1962 |
| 390,000 | 1963 |
| 430,000 | 1964 |
| 460,000 | 1965 |
| 500,000 | 1966 |
| 570,000 | 1967 |
| 620,000 | 1968 |
| 680,000 | 1969 |
| 740,000 | 1970 |
| 750,000 | 1971 |
| 770,000 | 1972 |
| 790,000 | 1973 |
| 810,000 | 1974 |
| 830,000 | 1975 |
| 840,000 | 1976 |
| 860,000 | 1977 |
| 880,000 | 1978 |
| 900,000 | 1979 |
| 930,000 | 1980 |
| 950,000 | 1981 |
| 970,000 | 1982 |
| 980,000 | 1983 |
| 990,000 | 1984 |
| 10,000 | 1984 (Reset) |
| 140,000 | 1985 |
| 170,000 | 1986 |
| 190,000 | 1987 |
| 210,000 | 1988 |
| 260,000 | 1989 |
| B330,000 | 1990 |
| B360,000 | 1991 |
| B390,000 | 1992 |
| B500,000 | 1993 |
| B560,000 | 1994 |
| B580,000 | 1995 |
| B790,000 | 1996 |
| B850,000 | 1997 |
| B990,000 | 1998 |
| H100,000 | 1999 |
| H170,000 | 2000 |
4. Why Knowing the Production Year Matters
Understanding the production year of your Tudor watch is not just about satisfying curiosity. It adds to the watch’s historical significance, helps in verifying its authenticity, and can increase its resale value. Vintage Tudor models, in particular, can command high prices if they are well-documented and in good condition.
Conclusion
Knowing the production year of your Tudor watch can enhance your appreciation of its history and craftsmanship. While identifying the production year of models made before 2002 is relatively straightforward, post-2002 models with random serial numbers require more effort and research. Regardless, understanding your timepiece’s background adds to its value and your enjoyment of owning such a remarkable watch.
Keep this guide handy as you explore the history and heritage of your Tudor watch, and enjoy the journey of discovery!
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