Old Bulova Watches Value: A Comprehensive Guide to Vintage Timepiece Valuation
Discover the value of old Bulova watches from the 1940s-1970s. Learn identification methods, price factors, and how to determine the worth of your vintage Bulova timepiece.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated July 20, 2023
Introduction to Vintage Bulova Watches
Bulova watches have been a symbol of American watchmaking excellence since the company’s founding in 1875. With a rich history spanning nearly 150 years, vintage Bulova timepieces have become highly sought-after collectibles. Whether you’ve inherited an old Bulova watch or are considering adding one to your collection, understanding the value of these classic timepieces is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence old Bulova watches’ value, how to identify different models and eras, and provide insights into current market prices. From the innovative Accutron to elegant mid-century designs, we’ll help you navigate the world of vintage Bulova watches with confidence.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>The Bulova Brand Heritage</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Understanding Bulova’s rich history helps collectors appreciate the significance and value of vintage models.</div>
Founded by Joseph Bulova, a Bohemian immigrant, the Bulova Watch Company began as a small jewelry store in New York City. The company quickly established itself as an innovative force in timekeeping, introducing standardized production techniques and pioneering advertising strategies that revolutionized the American watch industry.
Key Moments in Bulova's History
1875
Company Foundation
Joseph Bulova establishes the J. Bulova Company in New York City.
1911
Watch Manufacturing Begins
Bulova begins manufacturing and selling pocket watches and introduces its first line of men's wristwatches.
1926
First Radio Advertisement
Bulova broadcasts the first national radio commercial with the famous "At the tone, it's..." tagline.
1941
First TV Commercial
Bulova airs the world's first television commercial, a simple image of a watch and the phrase "America runs on Bulova time."
1960
Accutron Introduction
Bulova revolutionizes the watch industry with the Accutron, the world's first fully electronic watch.
1979
Acquisition
The Loews Corporation acquires Bulova, beginning a series of ownership changes.
Bulova’s commitment to innovation led to several industry milestones, including the first fully electronic watch—the Accutron—which used a tuning fork mechanism instead of traditional balance wheels. This revolutionary technology offered unprecedented accuracy and became the foundation for modern quartz movements.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Identifying Vintage Bulova Watches</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Learning to properly identify old Bulova watches is crucial for accurate valuation and authentication.</div>
One of the most challenging aspects of valuing vintage Bulova watches is proper identification. Unlike some luxury brands, Bulova produced a wide range of models at various price points, making identification more complex. Here’s how to determine what Bulova model you have:
Case Markings and Serial Numbers
Most vintage Bulova watches have markings on the caseback that can help with identification:
Brand Name: “Bulova” should be clearly marked on the dial, movement, or case
Model Name: Some models have specific names (like “Ambassador” or “President”) engraved on the case
Case Material: Look for markings like “10K GF” (gold-filled), “SST” (stainless steel), or “14K” (solid gold)
Serial Numbers: Found inside the case back, sometimes alongside date codes
The Bulova Date Code System
Bulova used a unique dating system from 1950 to around 2009, consisting of a letter and a number:
Bulova Date Code System
The Letter: Represents the decade (L=1950s, M=1960s, N=1970s, etc.)
The Number: Indicates the year within that decade
For example, a code of “M7” would indicate 1967, while “N3” would mean 1973.
Movement Identification
Bulova watches contain various movements depending on the era:
1940s-1950s: Primarily manual-wind movements
1960s: Introduction of the Accutron tuning fork movement
1970s-1980s: Mix of automatic, Accutron, and early quartz movements
Bulova Authentication Checklist
Check these elements when verifying an authentic vintage Bulova
Bulova logo correctly styled on dial and movement
Case markings match the appropriate era
Movement type consistent with production period
Date code present (for watches made after 1950)
Case style and dial design authentic to the period
Quality of finishing consistent with Bulova standards
For more detailed identification help, the My Bulova website maintains an extensive database of vintage Bulova models that can be searched by characteristics or date codes.
<div class="section-header__body">Certain Bulova models are particularly sought after by collectors, commanding premium prices in the vintage market.</div>
While Bulova produced millions of watches during the 20th century, some models stand out for their historical significance, innovative technology, or distinctive design. These watches typically command the highest prices in today’s collector market.
Bulova Accutron Models
The Accutron series, introduced in 1960, represents Bulova’s most significant technological achievement. These watches used a revolutionary tuning fork mechanism that hummed at 360Hz and provided accuracy to within one minute per month—unprecedented at the time.
Valuable Accutron Models
Market price ranges for collectible Accutron watches
Category
Price
Notes
Accutron Spaceview (1960s)
$800-$2,500
Open-dial design showing tuning fork movement
Accutron Astronaut (1960s)
$1,200-$3,000
Model used by NASA, 24-hour dial
Accutron Railroad Approved
$600-$1,500
Officially certified for railroad use
Accutron "Deep Sea" (1960s)
$900-$2,000
Early diving watch with tuning fork movement
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The Bulova Accutron Spaceview is particularly sought after due to its distinctive design that exposed the tuning fork mechanism. Originally created as a display model for jewelers, consumer demand led Bulova to release it as a production model.
Art Deco Models (1920s-1940s)
Bulova’s Art Deco watches from the pre-WWII era feature distinctive geometric designs that typify the period. These often came in gold-filled cases with unique shapes like rectangular, tonneau (barrel), or stepped cases.
Notable Art Deco Bulova Auction Results
Recent sales of pre-WWII Bulova timepieces
Item
Price
Date
Auction House
1928 Bulova 'President' 14K Gold
$3,850
December 2023
Christie's
1931 Bulova 'Banker' Enamel Dial
$1,275
August 2024
Heritage Auctions
1940 Bulova 'His Excellency' 21J
$975
February 2024
eBay
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Military and Special Issue Watches
Watches produced for military use or with historical significance often carry premium values:
WWII Military Issue: Watches produced for the American military during WWII
A-15 Pilot Watch: Specialized aviation timepiece with multiple timing functions
Bulova Chronograph 23: Vintage chronograph with the caliber 23 movement
Ladies’ Fine Jewelry Watches
Bulova produced many ladies’ watches that were designed as jewelry pieces, often featuring diamonds, unique case shapes, and elaborate bracelets. The “Lady Bulova” and high-end diamond watches from the 1950s-1970s can command premium prices, especially in solid gold cases.
<div class="section-header__body">Multiple elements influence the market value of old Bulova timepieces, from condition to rarity.</div>
When determining the value of a vintage Bulova watch, several key factors come into play:
Condition
The condition of a vintage Bulova watch is perhaps the most significant factor affecting its value:
Condition Impact on Value
Mint/New Old Stock (NOS): Unworn watches with original packaging can sell for 2-3 times the value of a similar watch in merely “excellent” condition
Excellent: Shows minimal wear with all functions working perfectly
Good: Shows normal signs of use but functionally sound
Fair/Poor: Significant wear, damage, or non-functioning elements can reduce value by 50-70%
Original parts are highly valued by collectors. Replacement dials, hands, crowns, or movements can significantly diminish a watch’s value.
Rarity and Historical Significance
Limited production models, historically significant pieces, or watches with unusual features naturally command higher prices:
Limited Editions: Special anniversary or commemorative models
Prototype or Experimental Models: Watches that never went into full production
Historically Significant Models: First of a kind or technological breakthroughs
Materials
The materials used in construction significantly impact value:
Solid Gold: 14K or 18K gold cases are most valuable
Gold-Filled: Less valuable than solid gold but more desirable than gold-plated
Stainless Steel: Durable and increasingly collectible, especially for sports models
Gold-Plated: Generally the least valuable case material
Completeness
Original boxes, papers, warranty certificates, and accessories can add 20-30% to a watch’s value. For very rare models, original documentation can sometimes double the value.
Working Condition
For Accutron models in particular, the functioning of the tuning fork movement is crucial to value. A non-working Accutron may be worth only 30-40% of a working example, as repairs can be costly and parts increasingly difficult to source.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Valuing Vintage Bulova Watches by Era</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Bulova watches from different decades have distinct characteristics and value ranges.</div>
1940s Bulova Watches
Post-war Bulova watches from the 1940s feature:
Classic round cases with some rectangular models
Primarily manual-wind movements
Art Deco influenced designs transitioning to mid-century aesthetic
1940s Bulova Value Ranges
Current market values for common 1940s models
Category
Price
Notes
Standard Men's Models (Steel)
$150-$400
Depending on condition and movement quality
Gold-Filled Models
$300-$700
With original bracelets commanding higher prices
Solid Gold Models
$700-$2,000+
Often valued primarily for gold content
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1950s Bulova Watches
The 1950s saw Bulova expand its range with:
Introduction of self-winding movements
Distinctive mid-century modern styling
Increased popularity of waterproof models
Expansion of the ladies’ jewelry watch line
According to vintage watch experts on JustAnswer, 1950s Bulova watches in excellent working condition typically range from $200-$500 for standard models, with rare or solid gold examples commanding significantly more.
1960s Bulova Watches
The 1960s represent Bulova’s technological peak with:
Introduction of the revolutionary Accutron in 1960
Increased variety of case shapes and styles
Space Age-influenced designs
Watches used by NASA in space missions
The Accutron models from this era are among the most collectible vintage Bulova watches. According to WatchCharts, working Accutron watches from the 1960s in good condition typically start around $500, with rare variants like the Spaceview commanding $1,200 or more.
1970s Bulova Watches
The 1970s brought significant changes to Bulova’s lineup:
Continued production of Accutron models
Introduction of quartz technology
Bold case designs reflecting 1970s aesthetics
Increased competition from Japanese manufacturers
Values for 1970s Bulova watches vary widely, with standard quartz models typically worth $100-$300, while special Accutron models from this period can still command $500-$1,000 depending on rarity and condition.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Where to Buy and Sell Vintage Bulova Watches</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Knowing the best marketplaces helps ensure fair prices when buying or selling old Bulova watches.</div>
Whether you’re looking to purchase a vintage Bulova or sell one from your collection, choosing the right marketplace can significantly impact the price and experience.
Best Places to Buy Vintage Bulova Watches
Specialized Vintage Watch Retailers
The Watch Preserve: Curated selection of restored vintage Bulova watches
Heritage Auctions and Christie’s: For rare, high-value models
Best Places to Sell Vintage Bulova Watches
Direct to Collectors
Watch forums like WatchUSeek or Omega Forums (which have vintage sections)
Social media groups dedicated to vintage watches
Consignment
Vintage watch specialists who take a commission but handle authentication and finding buyers
Auction houses for particularly valuable or rare models
Online Marketplaces
eBay remains the largest marketplace, though fees can be significant
Chrono24 focuses on watch enthusiasts specifically
According to discussions on Reddit, private sales between collectors often yield the best prices, though they require more effort to find the right buyer.
<div class="section-header__body">Protecting yourself from reproductions and altered watches is essential in the vintage market.</div>
With the increasing value of vintage watches, the market has seen a rise in counterfeit and misrepresented Bulova watches. Here’s how to authenticate a vintage Bulova:
Watch for Red Flags
“Franken-watches”: Pieces assembled from parts of different watches
Refinished dials: Original dial patina replaced with new finish
Replacement hands: Non-original hands that don’t match the period
Incorrect movements: Movement serial numbers that don’t match the case era
Fictitious models: Models that never existed in Bulova’s catalog
Verification Techniques
Cross-reference with catalogs: Check period catalogs to confirm the model existed
Consult expert resources: Use specialized forums like MyBulova.com
Examine the movement: Bulova movements should have appropriate markings
Verify the date code: Ensure it matches the style and features of the watch
Check case hallmarks: Gold content markings should be appropriate for the era
For valuable pieces, consider getting an appraisal from a certified watchmaker who specializes in vintage timepieces.
<h2 class="section-header__title">
<span>Maintaining and Servicing Vintage Bulova Watches</span>
</h2>
<div class="section-header__body">Proper care and maintenance help preserve both the functionality and value of vintage timepieces.</div>
Vintage Bulova watches require special care to maintain their value and functionality:
Service Recommendations
Regular servicing: Mechanical watches should be serviced every 3-5 years
Specialized repair: Seek watchmakers with specific experience in vintage Bulova models
Accutron expertise: Tuning fork movements require specialized knowledge and tools
Original parts: When possible, use new old stock (NOS) Bulova parts
Preservation Tips
Avoid water exposure: Even “waterproof” vintage models may have compromised seals
Store properly: Keep watches in a cool, dry place away from magnetic fields
Winding practices: For manual watches, wind at approximately the same time daily
Crystal care: Consider preserving original acrylic crystals rather than replacing with modern materials
Finding Service Providers
Independent watchmakers with vintage watch experience (often found through collector forums)
Specialist repair services that focus on Accutron and vintage electronic watches
Bulova’s heritage service for particularly valuable or significant models
Proper maintenance not only preserves functionality but can significantly impact resale value. A recently serviced watch with documentation of the work performed will typically command a premium over an identical unserviced example.
Common Questions About Vintage Bulova Watch Values
How can I tell how old my Bulova watch is?
For Bulova watches made between 1950 and 2009, look for a two-character date code usually found on the case back or inside the case. The first character (a letter) represents the decade: L=1950s, M=1960s, N=1970s, P=1980s, etc. The second character (a number) indicates the specific year within that decade. For example, "M7" would indicate 1967.
For watches made before 1950, you’ll need to identify the model and compare it to historical catalogs and advertisements. The MyBulova website maintains an extensive database that can help with dating.
Are Bulova watches worth anything?
Yes, Bulova watches can be valuable, though values vary widely based on model, age, condition, and materials. According to [WatchCharts](https://watchcharts.com/watches/brand/bulova), the average price for Bulova watches is around $200, but vintage models can range from as little as $23 for basic models in poor condition to over $1,000 for rare or solid gold pieces.
The most valuable vintage Bulova watches include:
Rare Accutron models (especially Spaceviews and Astronauts)
Limited edition or commemorative pieces
Solid gold watches from the 1940s-1960s
Military-issue watches
Watches with historical significance
Will a pawn shop buy my old Bulova watch?
Yes, pawn shops will often purchase vintage Bulova watches, but typically at significantly below market value. According to [Times Ticking](https://www.timesticking.com/types-of-watches-can-you-pawn-and-does-it-depend-on-the-brand/), mid-range brands like Bulova are commonly accepted by pawnbrokers, but they generally offer only 30-60% of the retail value.
For maximum value, consider selling through specialized watch retailers, auction houses, or directly to collectors instead of pawn shops. These avenues typically provide closer to full market value for your timepiece.
What is the most valuable vintage Bulova watch model?
The Bulova Accutron Astronaut models from the 1960s are among the most valuable, especially those with confirmed NASA or military provenance. These can sell for $3,000-$5,000 in excellent condition. The Accutron Spaceview is another highly sought-after model, with prices typically ranging from $800-$2,500 depending on condition and variant.
For non-Accutron watches, early solid gold models from the 1920s-1940s in excellent condition can command $2,000-$4,000, particularly those with unusual case shapes or complications.
How can I find out my Bulova watch's value by serial number?
Unlike some watch manufacturers, Bulova doesn't maintain a public database that allows value lookup by serial number. However, the serial number and case markings can help identify the model and production date, which are crucial for valuation.
To determine value:
Identify your watch’s date code and model name/number
Search for comparable sales on sites like eBay (sold listings), WatchCharts, or auction results
Consider condition, originality, and whether you have box and papers
For valuable pieces, consult with a professional appraiser who specializes in vintage watches
What makes vintage women's Bulova watches valuable?
Vintage women's Bulova watches derive value from several factors:
Materials (solid gold or platinum cases are most valuable)
Gemstones (diamond-set models command premiums)
Design (unique or artistic case shapes from Art Deco or Mid-Century periods)
Condition (original dials without refinishing are preferred)
According to listings on Empress.cc, women’s vintage Bulova watches typically range from $48 for basic models to $389 or more for premium examples like the 1928 "Lady Lindy" Art Deco model.
How much does servicing a vintage Bulova watch cost?
Servicing costs vary depending on the type of movement and complexity:
These prices typically include cleaning, lubrication, adjustment, and basic parts replacement. Additional costs may apply for case polishing, crystal replacement, or significant repairs. Using a watchmaker who specializes in vintage Bulova models is recommended, especially for Accutron models which require specific expertise.
Are 1970s Bulova watches collectible?
Yes, certain 1970s Bulova watches are collectible, though generally less so than their 1950s-1960s counterparts. The most collectible 1970s models include:
Later Accutron models (before the line was discontinued)
Early LED and LCD electronic watches
Distinctive cushion-case designs typical of the era
Military-issue models
Solid gold examples, particularly with integrated bracelets
According to vintage watch dealers, 1970s Bulova models typically range from $100-$500, with exceptional examples commanding higher prices.
Conclusion: Investing in Vintage Bulova Watches
Vintage Bulova watches represent not just timepieces but pieces of American horological history. While not typically considered investment-grade watches like certain Rolex or Patek Philippe models, select Bulova pieces—particularly Accutrons, solid gold models, and rare variants—have shown steady appreciation over the years.
For collectors, the relatively accessible price points of many vintage Bulova models make them an excellent entry point into serious watch collecting. Their historical significance, diverse designs spanning multiple eras, and the groundbreaking technology of the Accutron line ensure continued interest among enthusiasts.
Whether you’re inheriting a family timepiece, starting a collection, or considering the purchase of a vintage Bulova, understanding the factors that influence value will help you make informed decisions. By focusing on condition, originality, and the historical context of each piece, you can better appreciate these fascinating timepieces that truly represent a golden age of American watchmaking.
Remember that beyond monetary value, these watches carry historical and personal significance that often transcends their market price. A watch that tells the story of an era—or of your own family history—holds a value that can’t be measured in dollars alone.
