Description

Age: 1970 (N0 on caseback)

Maker: Bulova Accutron

Case: Stainless steel screw back case.  Case is in original condition and has likely never been polished.

Rotating internal GMT world time bezel

Caseback number 1-9346**

These vintage Accutrons have become extremely collectible in the last few years.  Due to the popularity of Mad Men, they’re receiving renewed attention, and the technology is super cool.  The vibrating tuning fork movement pre-dates the Quartz movement and was considered so accurate it was used by the U.S. military in spy satellites.  If you hold it to your ear, it has a faint, soothing, humming noise.

Crown: Original dual signed crown.  The top crown rotates the inner world time bezel.  The bottom crown handles the date and time setting functions.

Dial: Factory finished dial is in excellent original condition; the bullseye design is really stunning.   Date display at 3 O’Clock.  Signed  ”T Swiss T at 6 O’Clock.

Original lume in handset and hour markers

Crystal: Recently replaced, extra-thick diving crystal.  These crystals are prone to very faint crazing over the years, and they are almost impossible to find proper replacements for.  I’m not kidding when I say that this watch has been in the drawer for the last two years as I searched for a proper Bulova replacement crystal.  When I finally found one, it cost a small fortune.  But it’s the only way to keep these pieces water tight and most generic crystals don’t fit.  Be sure to factor this in if you come across other Accutron divers that used this case.

Movement: Bulova Accutron calibre 2182.  Swiss made, with the famous Accutron tuning fork technology.  Most watches with a sweep seconds hand tick; because of the tuning fork, Accutrons have a constant, steady rotation around the dial with no ticking.

My Accutron specialist has performed a full inspection and servicing on this watch. The watch was completely disassembled, the appropriate parts were cleaned in the ultrasonic and then oiled using the finest quality Swiss Moebius oil; specifically, the Accutrons require a special oil, Mobebius 8201.  It was regulated and is keeping good time.

In addition to the replacement crystal, I’ve been able to find NOS gaskets for all of the entry point on the watch.  Accordingly, this watch passed my testing for water resistance on my dry testing device, the Elma Leak Tester.   So it is safe for regular use near water (washing hands, dishes, etc).  It has not been depth tested.  With all vintage watches, though, it is a good idea not to submerge; water resistance is neither warranted nor guaranteed due to the age of the piece.

The watch had a fresh battery installed with the service.  Unlike some Accutrons, this watch is running great and keeping good time on a standard battery cell.  So there’s no need to use the special Accu-Cell batteries with this one.

Dimensions: 45mm x 41 mm without crown.  20mm strap.

Band:  Pictured on a navy, white and orange NATO strap, which complements the piece perfectly.

Shipping: Domestic shipping  via Fedex 2nd Day Air, fully insured. International orders, will ship via Fedex International.  Please select these options at checkout.