Vintage Ladies Bulova Cocktail Watch - 23 Jewels Automatic/Manual Wind
Bulova · Jewelry & Watches > Watches > Wristwatches
Era / Decade
1950s to early 1960s based on the small cocktail style, '23 Jewels' movement marking, and geometric expansion band casing.
Material
Likely 10K or 14K Gold Filled casing with a stainless steel back; many higher-end 23-jewel models from this era were solid 14K gold, which would significantly increase value.
Condition
Good (Vintage). The crystal appears slightly scratched; watch shows minor brassing on the lugs. Functionality is unknown, which is a major value factor for mechanical watches.
Demand Level
Moderate to Niche. Small ladies' cocktail watches are less popular for daily wear today but have a dedicated following among vintage enthusiasts and collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $150.00 (Low end for non-working gold-filled; high end for working condition or if confirmed solid gold).
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $125.00 (In 1950s currency equivalent to approximately $700 - $1,200 today).
Comparable Sales
Non-working gold-filled Bulova ladies watches consistently sell for $30-$50. Serviced or solid gold versions can fetch $150-$350 depending on the gold weight.
Description
Lovely vintage Bulova ladies cocktail watch featuring a delicate hexagonal/oval case and a decorated gold-tone expansion band. White dial with gold dot markers and Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9. Mechanical wind movement typical of the mid-century era.
Key Features
Highly reputable brand (Bulova); 23 Jewel movement indicates a higher quality movement than standard 7 or 11 jewel models; classic mid-century 'Mad Men' aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Dial branding font matches period-correct Bulova logos; case back should have a date code (e.g., L5 for 1955, M1 for 1961); High confidence in brand authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Scratches on the acrylic crystal; potential gold plating wear (brassing) on high-friction points; unknown mechanical health—vintage watches often require servicing/oil.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform due to the global reach for watch collectors. Etsy is a strong secondary choice for the 'vintage accessory' aesthetic market.
Selling Tips
Open the back to check for gold purity stamps (14K vs Gold Filled). Test if it ticks when wound and state this clearly. Use keywords like 'Mid-Century', 'Art Deco Style', and '23 Jewels' in the title.