Questions
Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
How do I identify my Geneva watch?
1 Answer

To identify your Geneva watch, examine the serial and reference numbers. Authentic timepieces made in the watchmaking capital come with certificates of origin and conformity. A luxury watch made in Geneva will also have serial and reference numbers indicating, respectively, the particular watch’s date of production and model. These can be researched to determine if the information conveyed by the number matches the watch it’s engraved on.
And just because a watch face includes the word Geneva, or Genève, this doesn’t guarantee that your watch is reliable, high quality or even a product of Switzerland. The vintage watch lovers of the world know that the mark to look for is the Poinçon de Genève, referred to in English as the Hallmark of Geneva or the Geneva Seal, reserved for mechanical watches made in the city or within its canton (a region similar to a U.S. state) that adhere to superb traditional standards of craftsmanship. The seal graces only the best watches. A limited number of the industry’s most revered houses, including Vacheron Constantin, Roger Dubuis, Chopard and Cartier, have facilities in Geneva and consistently submit watches for certification.
Learn how to identify Geneva watches and find vintage watches for sale on 1stDibs.
And just because a watch face includes the word Geneva, or Genève, this doesn’t guarantee that your watch is reliable, high quality or even a product of Switzerland. The vintage watch lovers of the world know that the mark to look for is the Poinçon de Genève, referred to in English as the Hallmark of Geneva or the Geneva Seal, reserved for mechanical watches made in the city or within its canton (a region similar to a U.S. state) that adhere to superb traditional standards of craftsmanship. The seal graces only the best watches. A limited number of the industry’s most revered houses, including Vacheron Constantin, Roger Dubuis, Chopard and Cartier, have facilities in Geneva and consistently submit watches for certification.
Learn how to identify Geneva watches and find vintage watches for sale on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 14, 2024
Related Questions
- How do I identify my Longines watch?1 Answer
- How do I identify my chronograph watch?1 Answer
- How do I identify my Benrus watch?1 Answer
- How do I identify my Gruen watch?1 Answer
- How do I identify my Rado watch?1 Answer
Shop for Watches on 1stDibs
Louis Duchene
Cie. 18K Gold Enamel Pearl Diamond Set Lyre Form Watch, c.1810
Located in New York, NY
Rare Louis Duchene
Cie. 18K Gold polychrome enamel, pearl and diamond set lyre form keywound verge watch with concealed dial and open back window
Circa 1810
Musical instruments...
Category
Antique Early 19th Century European Neoclassical Pocket Watches
Materials
Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, Enamel
Antique Waltham Pocket Watch with Chain
Fob in Rose Gold and Heraldic Crest
Located in New York, NY
The antique Waltham pocket watch, paired with its chain and fob, is a remarkable example of late 19th-century American craftsmanship. Constructed in 14K rose gold, this timepiece com...
Category
Antique 1890s American Aesthetic Movement Pocket Watches
Materials
Rose Gold
1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens Claw Lugs Square Dress Watch, 14K Rose Gold SS
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
1973 Omega De Ville Vintage Mens Automatic Watch with Chocolate Bronze Dial - SS
By Omega
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
CARTIER LANIER Ladies 18K White Gold
Factory Diamond Watch
By Cartier
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
2010s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
1966 Omega (Seamaster) Rare Cal. 560 Vintage Mens 10K Gold Filled
Stainless St
By Omega
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Stainless Steel


