Some watches place the serial between the lugs or beneath a bracelet. Reaching it may require a spring-bar tool and a steady hand. If you don't have the right tool or experience, ask a watchmaker or the seller to show the number rather than risking a damaged case.
Confirm the location for the exact model
Serial locations vary by brand, model, and production period. Check the manufacturer's guidance or ask an authorised service centre. A general online diagram may describe another generation of the same watch.
If you inspect it yourself
Work over a clean, soft surface and use a tool sized for the spring bars. Don't force a stuck bar, lever against the lug, or open a sealed case. If the watch is valuable, the few minutes saved aren't worth a scratch or a lost spring bar.
Match the revealed serial
Once the number is visible, photograph it in clear light and compare each character with the documents. Run the search only when you can read it confidently. If the seller won't permit a safe inspection or the engraving looks altered, pause the purchase.
A search result tied to an uncertain number can give false reassurance. The result is only useful when the serial belongs to the actual watch being checked.
Find the Right Serial Safely
Use model-specific guidance or ask a watchmaker before removing a bracelet or opening a case.