The Bulova Accutron Astronaut is where horology and history combine, and this one has just been serviced.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1967.
CONDITION
In 1960 Bulova launched the Accutron 214 calibre. It was a real feat of engineering, running at 360hz (most mechanical watches ran at 2.5hz) which allowed for an incredibly smooth second hand and very precise time keeping. It was like nothing else available, so much so that when IWC, Longines, Omega and others wanted to make electronic watches you will find references to Bulova patents inside their cases. 1960 was also just a year before the first men in space, and before long the Astronaut model was launch with the 214HN variant, which adds hacking and a 24 hour hand. So good were these that they were standard equipment for pilots of the US U-2 and A-12 spyplanes that flew at very high altitude, and the movements were used on no fewer than 46 space missions as a cockpit timing instrumentation. One was left on the moon by the Apollo 11 crew as part of a science experiment. So the term Astronaut is very appropriate, even the if the wristwatches were not worn by astronauts on the space program.
The hacking function works, as it should, via the back set. This watch has just been serviced by a Bulova Accutron specialist so is running superbly on a new Accucell battery. The dial is particularly good on this example, and the lume on the dial and hands is all even. The 24 hour bezel turns smoothly. The bracelet is not an original Bulova item, but the signed clasp is. The bracelet has been cleaned in our ultrasonic bath, but could be swapped for a leather strap if preferred.
This watch will be supplied with an original Accutron presentation box, paired to this watch, and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 37.8 mm
Width without crown 37.8 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 39.6 mm
Case Thickness 13.5 mm
Bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of 192 mm. The bracelet can be sized for you if you give us your wrist size when placing the order.
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
