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A simple guide to better understand how the reference numbers work and their relevance.

You will often come across reference numbers when looking at watches. Each brand will have its own unique numbering system and most of the time you will have trouble deciphering this bunch of numbers.

When it comes to Patek Philippe, the easiest way to decipher the numbering system is to break the numbers down to men’s and women’s.

Below is a four-step guide to better understand the relevance of the Patek Philippe numbering system

1. All Patek Philippe numbering will start with either 3xxx, 4xxx,5xxx,6xxx or 7xxx

Men’s reference numbers will start with 3xxx, 5xxx or 6xxx

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It is worth noting that from the current collection of the 151 watches (2021) there are no references that start with ‘3xxx‘ that are available to purchase.

Women’s reference numbers will start with 4xxx and 7xxx

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However, there are a few models that start with the number ‘5xxx‘ in women’s model numbers (models 5062 and 5072).

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2. The reference number is followed with a backslash and a numeric code (xxxx/XXXX)

The following numeric codes indicate the information on the casing, bracelet, type of gem-setting or if engraving has been done.

XXXX/1 – Indicates a watch with a bracelet

XXXX/50 – Indicates a watch with a decorated dial

XXXX/200 – Indicates a watch with a gem-set case (round brilliant gems)

XXXX/300 – Indicates a watch with a gem-set case (baguette-cut gems)

XXXX/400 – Indicates a watch with a gem-set case (high jewellery)

XXXX/500 – Indicates a watch with an engraved case

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XXXX/900 – Indicates a watch with a combination of mixed techniques

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For example, reference 7300/1450R-001 will have a bracelet (1), high jewellery set (400) and decorated dial (50)

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3. It is followed by a letter that indicates the type of material used… (xxxx/xxxxX)

“A” – ‘Acier’ in French means Steel in Patek Philippe

“J” – ‘Jaune’ in French means Yellow-Gold in Patek Philippe

“R” – Means Rose-Gold in Patek Philippe

“G” – ‘Gris’ in French means White-Gold in Patek Philippe

“P” – Means Platinum in Patek Philippe

“AR” – Means Steel/Rose-Gold in Patek Philippe

4. Lastly, the reference will have a three-digit number after the hyphen

The first iteration of the dial will start with 001

The second iteration will not be 002, but 010

The third iteration will be 011

The fourth iteration will be 012