What Apple Watch Do I Have? How to Identify Your Apple Watch Model

Many people are unsure which Apple Watch model they own, especially if they bought it years ago or received it second-hand. The good news is that identifying your Apple Watch is simple. Every model has clear markers such as the model number, case size, materials and design features. This guide walks you through each method step by step and gives you a complete model-number table for all generations.

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Quick Answer (Fast Identification)

The fastest way to identify your Apple Watch is to check the model number.
You can find it:

• On the back of the watch case, engraved as an A-number (for example: A1553).

• In the Watch app on iPhone under Settings → General → About → Model Number → tap once to reveal the A-number.

Once you have the A-number, you can match it to the full model table below.

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How to Check Your Apple Watch Model Number

Check the model number on the back of the case

Every Apple Watch has an engraved ring around the sensors on the back. This engraving shows:

• The case size

• The material

• The water resistance rating

• The model number (A-number)

The A-number always starts with A followed by four digits.
Example: A1554.

Check the model number on your iPhone

1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.

2. Go to General.

3. Tap About.

4. Look for Model Number.

5. Tap it once to reveal the A-number.

This A-number is the most accurate identifier for your Apple Watch.

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Apple Watch Model Number List (All Generations)

Below is a complete overview of all major Apple Watch generations with the correct A-numbers, case sizes, release years, materials and connectivity types.

Complete Apple Watch Model Table

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How to Identify Your Apple Watch by Appearance

Even without the model number, you can identify your Apple Watch by looking at size, buttons, and design details.

Case sizes (38, 40, 41, 42, 44, 45, 49 mm)

• 38 mm & 42 mm were used for older models (Series 0–3).

• 40 mm & 44 mm appeared with Series 4–6 and first-gen SE.

• 41 mm & 45 mm arrived with Series 7–9.

• 49 mm is exclusive to Ultra and Ultra 2.

This makes case size a strong indicator of the generation.

Case materials (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium)

• Aluminum is the most common and lightweight.

• Stainless Steel has a glossy, polished look.

• Titanium appears on the Series 5, Series 6, some Series 7 units, and the Ultra line.

Digital Crown differences (GPS vs Cellular)

• Cellular models have a red ring or a solid red crown (depending on generation).

• GPS-only models have a plain Digital Crown without red accents.

Button layout across generations

• Pressing both buttons at the same time takes a screenshot (if enabled).

• The Ultra models have the extra Action Button on the left side.

• All other models have the Digital Crown and side button on the right.

Visual design is especially useful when identifying older or second-hand watches.

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Recognizing Your Apple Watch Series

Below is a helpful way to visually distinguish each series.

Series 1–3

• Smaller bezels

• Square, compact look

• Case sizes: 38 mm / 42 mm

• Series 3 has a cellular option with a red crown

Series 4–5

• Larger displays with rounded corners

• Case sizes: 40 mm / 44 mm

• Series 5 introduced Always-On Display and optional Titanium

Series 6

• Similar design to Series 5

• Added blood oxygen sensor

• Case sizes: 40 mm / 44 mm

Series 7

• Thinner borders

• Larger case sizes: 41 mm / 45 mm

• Slightly more rounded screen edges

Series 8

• Very similar to Series 7

• Improved sensors and crash detection

Series 9

• Same sizes as Series 7/8

• Much brighter display

• Faster chip and on-device Siri

Apple Watch SE (1st and 2nd gen)

• No Always-On Display

• No ECG or blood oxygen

• Case sizes: 40 mm / 44 mm

• Lower price point with essential features

Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2

• Large 49 mm case

• Titanium design

• Flat sapphire front

• Extra Action Button

• Most rugged and outdoor-focused model

Nike and Hermes models

• Nike versions include exclusive watch faces and sport bands

• Hermes models include leather straps and exclusive faces

• Hardware matches their corresponding regular series

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Apple Watch is GPS or Cellular?

If the Digital Crown has a red ring or solid red dot, it is a Cellular model. You can also check by looking at the model number in the Watch app.

Where is the model number located?

It is engraved on the back of the case and visible in the Watch app under General → About → Model Number.

What size Apple Watch do I have?

The size is printed on the back of the case (for example: 41 mm). Case size is also visible in the Watch app under About.

Do Apple Watch bands fit all models?

Most bands fit multiple generations.

• 38/40/41 mm bands are interchangeable.

• 42/44/45 mm bands are interchangeable.

• Ultra models also accept 45 mm bands.

Is my Apple Watch waterproof?

All models are water resistant to varying degrees, but not fully waterproof. Older series are splash resistant, while newer models support shallow swimming. Ultra models support recreational diving.

What does the “A-number” mean?

The A-number is the official Apple identifier for your exact model and generation.

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Conclusion

Identifying your Apple Watch is straightforward once you know where to look. The model number is the most accurate method, but case size, materials and design also help. With the steps and tables in this guide, you can quickly confirm exactly which Apple Watch you have and use that knowledge for compatibility, features and further reading within the Apple Watch category.