A very large automatic Bulova Snorkel model with the 666ft devil divers depth rating. Model reference 7020.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the date code on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1971. The movement is stamped for 1970, but the watch could not be completed until 1971.
CONDITION
The fact that Omega launched the PloProf model in 1970 will not has escaped other watch companies. Suddenly large divers watches were a must in your range, and we presume Bulova had some Ploprof ideas when designing this Snorkel model. However, the Ploprof had some limiting features – it was very heavy, and the crown was difficult to use (but excellent to seal the watch – that was a tool watch after all.) The Omega was also twice the price of any Rolex dive watch. Bulova will have compromised the design to save both money and not limit their market to professional divers only. So gone is the monobloc case, complex crown and helium escape value, and the Bulova here is a much easier watch to buy and live with.
The worst damage on this watch is a ding on the bi directional, no click bezel. The lume plots on the dial and hands have patina, but if this had been replaced we probably would not have bought the watch – old watches should be original as much as possible. The movement is Bulova’s calibre 11ANACD, with semi quick set date and 23 jewels, which is running well. It has a relatively low profile, which makes this watch quite slim for the case diameter. The screw down case back has some very crudely engraved initials on it – so crude we can’t be certain what letters they are! (possibly RH?). The rest of the case shows some marks. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred. It appears to be that this model shares the same case, dial, hands and a similar movement of the 774 model, but with a different bezel. Given that the 774 Snorkel model is regularly advertised at twice our price (see here) this could be a relative bargain if you like big, seventies divers watches.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
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SIZE
Width with crown 44.8 mm
Width without crown 44.0 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 45.2 mm
Case Thickness 11.3 mm
All sizes are approximate.
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