Bulova Vintage Swiss Mechanical Wristwatch with Sub-Seconds
Bulova · Jewelry & Watches > Watches > Wristwatches
Era / Decade
Early 1940s (WWII Era). Dating is based on the military-style black dial, font of the Arabic numerals, and the small sub-dial for seconds.
Material
Stainless steel case or base metal with heavy patina; acrylic crystal; steel expansion/platelet bracelet.
Condition
Fair/Poor. The watch shows significant wear, heavy scratches on the crystal and bracelet, and 'brassing' or oxidation on the case. It is currently non-running/as-is.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a strong niche for WWII-era military watches, but condition is a major hurdle for casual buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $15 - $30 (parts only) | Mid: $45 - $75 (as-is, vintage enthusiast) | High: $150+ (if serviced and restored).
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (original 1940s price adjusted for inflation) or $250.00 for a comparable modern mechanical field watch.
Comparable Sales
Recent non-running WWII-era Bulova watches ship for $25 - $55 on eBay; fully restored or mint versions of similar models can exceed $200.
Description
A classic WWII-era Bulova mechanical watch featuring a black dial with radium-style Arabic numerals and a small seconds sub-dial at the 6 o'clock position. This timepiece showcases an authentic aged patina on its metal case and comes attached to a period-correct metal expansion band. The small case size suggests it was a mid-sized men's or large women's model of the era.
Key Features
Highly collectible brand (Bulova); popular military-style 'dirty dozen' aesthetic; mechanical hand-wind movement; original vintage character.
Authenticity Indicators
Bulova script logo on dial; era-appropriate sub-second hand placement. High confidence in authenticity based on construction, though a look at the movement for the Bulova date code (letter/number combo) would confirm exact year.
Flaws to Note
Heavy scratching on the crystal (obscures dial); significant metal oxidation on the case; unknown movement functionality; strap is stretched and scratched.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform to reach international watch collectors and restorers. Etsy is a secondary option for those looking for 'steampunk' or 'distressed' vintage jewelry.
Selling Tips
List as 'Repair/Parts' or 'Restoration Project.' Take a photo of the movement (inside the back case) if possible to show caliber numbers. Use keywords: WWII, Military Style, Field Watch, Patina, Sub-seconds.