Vintage Ladies Bulova Cocktail Watch with Octagonal Case
Bulova · Jewelry & Watches > Watches > Wristwatches
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s based on the petite cocktail 'Art Deco' transition style and hexagonal/octagonal case shape common in mid-century ladies' dress watches.
Material
Likely 10K Gold Rolled Plate or Gold Filled case and band with a stainless steel back. The band is a classic expansion style 'Speidel' type.
Condition
Fair to Good. There is visible brassing (wear to the gold plating) on the lugs and band. The crystal appears slightly scratched, and the dial shows some patina/aging. Movement functionality is unknown.
Demand Level
Moderate/Niche. While Bulova is a collected brand, petite 'cocktail' watches have a smaller market than larger men's vintage watches, but remain popular in 'Dark Academia' and 'Vintage Chic' fashion circles.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25 (Non-working/Parts) - $55 (Working/Good) - $125 (If solid gold or serviced mechanical)
Estimated Retail Value
Original price would have been approximately $30-$60 in the 1950s (roughly $350-$600 adjusted for inflation). Equivalent luxury petite watches today retail for $400+.
Comparable Sales
Similar gold-filled ladies Bulova watches from the 40s/50s frequently sell on eBay for $35 to $65. High-end examples that have been serviced or are confirmed 14k solid gold can reach $150-$300.
Description
Exquisite vintage ladies Bulova cocktail watch featuring a unique octagonal gold-tone case. This mechanical wind-up timepiece showcases a white dial with gold-tone numeric markers and stick hands. It is paired with a matching vintage expansion stretch bracelet. Perfect for collectors of mid-century jewelry or as a delicate statement piece.
Key Features
Recognizable prestige brand (Bulova), popular mid-century aesthetic, unique geometric octagonal case, mechanical hand-wind movement, original-style expansion band.
Authenticity Indicators
Bulova name clearly visible on the dial; look for 'Bulova' and '10K RGP' or 'Gold Filled' stamps on the case back and inside the case. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Plat wear/brassing on the edges of the high-friction areas, light scratches on the acrylic crystal, unknown mechanical health (may need professional cleaning/oiling), expansion band may be stretched.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for vintage watches due to the global collector base. Etsy is a strong secondary choice for 'vintage aesthetic' jewelry buyers.
Selling Tips
Test if it runs by winding gently; state 'Working' or 'For Parts/Repair' clearly. Use keywords like 'Art Deco', 'Mid Century', 'Cocktail Watch', and 'Mechanical'. Take a macro photo of the case back markings. Clean with a soft jewelry cloth but do not submerge in water.