| 1928 'Lady Lindy' Art Deco Watch |
$389 |
April 2024 |
Empress.cc |
| 1950s Bulova Diamond Cocktail Watch, 14K Gold |
$1,250 |
March 2024 |
1stDibs |
| 1960s Gold Tone Caravelle |
$175 |
February 2024 |
eBay |
| 1940s Bulova Ladies Watch with Original Box |
$650 |
January 2024 |
Christie's |
| 1951 Bulova Cocktail Ladies Mechanical |
$425 |
December 2023 |
The Watch Preserve |
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Value Based on Metal Content
For many vintage Bulova watches, particularly those made of precious metals, the material value provides a baseline for valuation:
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14K Gold Cases: According to a forum discussion on eBay, the pure value of 14 karat gold is approximately $50 per gram. A fair dealer might offer at least 75% of melt value, with the total price potentially higher based on the watch’s collectible status.
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Gold-Filled Cases: Typically containing 1/20 to 1/10 the gold content of solid gold pieces, these have less intrinsic metal value but can still be desirable to collectors for their designs.
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Diamond-Accented Models: Value depends heavily on the quality, size, and number of stones. According to Vintage Radar’s analysis, diamond-accented Bulova models can range from $500 to $5,000 depending on these factors.
Selling Vintage Women’s Bulova Watches
If you’re looking to sell a vintage Bulova watch, several options exist:
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Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Etsy, and 1stDibs host numerous listings for vintage Bulova watches, with eBay’s vintage Bulova section being particularly active.
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Specialist Dealers: Websites like The Watch Preserve specialize in vintage timepieces and often offer better prices for rare or desirable models.
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Auction Houses: For particularly valuable pieces, traditional auction houses may be the best option to reach serious collectors.
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Gold Buyers: As a last resort for damaged pieces, the gold content can be sold, though this typically yields the lowest return relative to the watch’s potential collector value.
Authentication Considerations
When purchasing vintage Bulova watches, be aware of common issues:
- Redial: Many vintage watches have had their dials refinished, which significantly reduces value. Look for original patina and consistent lettering.
- Replacement Parts: Non-original crowns, hands, or crystals diminish value. Research the correct components for your model.
- Franken-Watches: Some sellers combine parts from different watches. Ensure case and movement serial numbers are consistent with the model.
According to collectors on Reddit, “Original condition is paramount—a watch with all original parts, even with some wear, is typically more valuable than a heavily restored piece.”
Investment Potential
While not all vintage watches appreciate significantly, certain categories of women’s Bulova watches have shown steady value increases:
- Art Deco models from the 1920s-30s continue to appreciate due to their unique design aesthetic
- Solid gold models benefit from increasing precious metal prices plus collector demand
- Historically significant pieces with documented provenance show the strongest appreciation
For collectors, focusing on condition, originality, and rarity rather than just age often yields the best long-term returns.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential for preserving both the condition and value of vintage Bulova watches:
- Regular Servicing: Mechanical movements should be professionally serviced every 3-5 years to prevent damage.
- Proper Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent dial fading.
- Careful Cleaning: Use only approved methods for cleaning vintage watches to avoid damage.
- Documentation: Keep all records, receipts, and provenance documentation to support future value.
Bulova Goddess of Time Series (1950s-1960s)
The Goddess of Time series, featuring sculptural goddess figures on the dial or case, represents some of Bulova’s most artistic designs from the mid-century period:
- Value Range: $300-$1,200 depending on metal content and condition
- Desirability Factors: Original box and papers can increase value by 25-40%
- Rarity: Gold models with diamond accents are particularly sought after
Bulova Diamond Collections (Various Eras)
Bulova produced numerous diamond-accented women’s watches throughout different decades:
- Value Range: $400-$5,000 depending on the number and quality of diamonds, metal type, and rarity
- Highest Values: Art Deco-era platinum and diamond models command the highest prices
- Market Trend: According to auction data from multiple sources, prices for diamond-accented Bulova watches have increased approximately 15-20% over the past decade
Bulova Caravelle Line (1960s-Present)
Introduced as Bulova’s more affordable line, vintage Caravelle women’s watches offer excellent entry points for collectors:
- Value Range: $50-$300 for most models
- Most Collectible: Early 1960s Caravelle models in gold-tone with unique designs
- Market Position: Popular with beginning collectors due to accessibility and distinctive mid-century aesthetics
Limited Edition and Commemorative Models
Throughout its history, Bulova created special edition women’s watches for anniversaries and significant events:
- Value Range: Highly variable, with rare commemorative models reaching $1,000-$5,000
- Authentication: Documentation and original packaging are especially important for verifying limited edition claims
- Investment Potential: Limited production numbers typically support stronger price appreciation over time
Common Questions About Vintage Women's Bulova Watches
How can I tell how old my vintage women's Bulova watch is?
You can determine the age of your Bulova watch through several methods:
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Look for a date code inside the case back (post-1950 models) – for example, “L2” indicates 1952, while “N4” would be 1974.
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For pre-1950s watches, serial numbers on the movement can be referenced against Bulova production records.
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The design style itself can provide era clues – Art Deco elements suggest 1920s-30s, while sleek minimalism indicates 1960s-70s.
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The myBulova.com database allows you to search by visual characteristics to find matching models with known production dates.
What makes a vintage women's Bulova watch valuable?
Several key factors determine the value of vintage women’s Bulova watches:
- Materials: Solid gold (14K or 18K) and platinum cases command higher prices than gold-filled or plated models
- Diamonds and gemstones: Quality, size, and authenticity of stones significantly impact value
- Age and rarity: Limited production models from the 1920s-1950s are generally most valuable
- Condition: Original dials without restoration, functioning movements, and minimal wear are crucial
- Completeness: Original box, papers, and accessories can increase value by 25-40%
- Historical significance: Models associated with specific events or innovations tend to be more valuable
Watches combining multiple positive factors—like a solid gold Art Deco model with original box and papers—will achieve the highest values.
Are ladies' vintage Bulova watches with diamonds worth more?
Yes, vintage Bulova ladies’ watches with diamonds typically command higher prices, but several factors affect their value:
- Authenticity: Natural diamonds versus later replacements or simulants
- Quality: The cut, clarity, and color of the diamonds
- Setting integrity: Original, undamaged settings preserve value
- Overall design: Some diamond models are more sought after based on their aesthetic appeal
Diamond-accented Bulova watches from the 1950s and earlier tend to be most valuable, with prices ranging from $500 for basic designs to $5,000+ for rare models with high-quality stones and precious metal cases.
What is the average value of a vintage 1950s women's Bulova watch?
The average value of 1950s women’s Bulova watches varies considerably based on specific model and condition:
- Standard models in stainless steel: $150-$300
- Gold-filled models in good condition: $250-$600
- Solid gold models: $600-$2,000
- Diamond-accented pieces: $500-$3,000
- Rare collector’s models with documentation: $1,000-$5,000+
The 1950s represent a particularly desirable era for women’s Bulova watches due to their distinctive mid-century styling and quality mechanical movements. Models like the Lady Lindy and early Goddess of Time designs from this period attract significant collector interest.
How can I find the serial number on my vintage Bulova ladies' watch?
To locate the serial number or date code on your vintage Bulova ladies’ watch:
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Case back removal: This typically requires a watchmaker’s case opener tool
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Inside the case back: Many Bulova watches have numbers stamped inside the case back
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On the movement: The serial number may be engraved on the metal movement itself
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Date code location: Post-1950 models often have a two-character date code (like L2 or N4) inside the case
If you’re uncomfortable opening the watch yourself, a professional watchmaker or jeweler can safely access these numbers without damaging your timepiece.
Where is the best place to sell a vintage women's Bulova watch?
The best selling venue depends on your specific watch and your priorities:
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For maximum value: Specialist vintage watch dealers like The Watch Preserve or auction houses for rare/valuable models
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For convenience: Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or 1stDibs, though fees can be substantial
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For local options: Jewelry stores specializing in vintage pieces or local auction houses
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For gold value only: Precious metal buyers if the watch is damaged beyond repair
Extraordinary pieces (solid gold with diamonds, rare Art Deco designs, etc.) typically benefit from specialist auction houses or dealers who can connect with serious collectors willing to pay premium prices.
Are 10K gold vintage Bulova ladies' watches valuable?
10K gold vintage Bulova ladies’ watches do hold value, though less than their 14K counterparts:
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Typical value range: $300-$800 depending on age, design, and condition
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Metal content: 10K gold contains 41.7% pure gold (versus 58.3% in 14K)
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Collector interest: While the gold content provides a baseline value, collector appeal of the specific model can significantly increase worth
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Market distinction: “10K gold filled” (abbreviated 10K GF) is different from solid 10K gold, containing much less actual gold and commanding lower prices
According to forum discussions on eBay Community, 10K gold Bulova watches typically sell for 1.5-2 times their melt value when in good working condition with original dials.
How can I tell if my vintage Bulova watch is gold or gold-plated?
To determine if your vintage Bulova is solid gold or gold-plated:
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Check for markings: Inside the case back, look for stamps like:
- “14K” or “10K” indicates solid gold
- “1/20 10K G.F.” indicates gold-filled (a thicker gold layer)
- “Gold Plated” or “G.P.” indicates a thin gold coating
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Weight: Solid gold watches feel noticeably heavier than gold-plated models
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Wear patterns: Gold-plated watches often show brass or base metal at wear points (edges, lugs)
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Magnet test: Gold is not magnetic, but base metals under thin plating might respond to a magnet
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Professional assessment: A jeweler or watchmaker can provide definitive identification
Remember that gold-filled cases (with “G.F.” markings) contain more gold than simple gold-plated cases and typically hold value better.
External Resources for Vintage Bulova Watch Identification and Valuation
Conclusion: Investing in Vintage Women’s Bulova Watches
Vintage women’s Bulova watches represent both a connection to horological history and a potentially sound investment when chosen carefully. The most valuable pieces combine precious materials, historical significance, excellent condition, and aesthetic appeal—with especially desirable examples from the Art Deco period and mid-century designs continuing to appreciate in value.
For collectors, focusing on models with original components, documented provenance, and distinctive design elements typically yields the best long-term results. While the market for vintage women’s watches has historically been somewhat overlooked compared to men’s models, increased interest in women’s vintage fashion and accessories has driven growing appreciation for these elegant timepieces.
Whether you’re inheriting a family heirloom, beginning a collection, or considering the sale of a vintage Bulova, understanding the specific factors that drive value—from material composition to historical context—will help you make informed decisions about these beautiful expressions of American watchmaking heritage.
