Vintage Bulova Quartz Champagne Dial Watch with Custom Service/Safety Recognition Band
Bulova · Jewelry & Watches > Watches
Era / Decade
Late 1980s to Early 1990s based on the 'T SWISS MADE T' tritium dial marking and quartz movement style.
Material
Gold-plated base metal case; stainless steel back. Expansion 'Speidel' style band with an applied service emblem featuring a heart, two small rubies (Likely synthetic), and two small clear stones (likely CZ or crystals).
Condition
Good. The crystal appears relatively clear, but there is visible plating wear on the lug edges and crown. The custom band attachment (the heart emblem) shows some grime and base metal oxidation near the edges.
Demand Level
Moderate to Low. While Bulova is a strong brand, vintage quartz watches with heavy personalization/service emblems sell more slowly than standard vintage styles.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $65.00
Estimated Retail Value
$125.00 - $175.00 (original 1990s inflation-adjusted value)
Comparable Sales
Plain Bulova quartz watches from this era typically sell for $25-$45. Special service award versions or those in 'excellent' condition can reach $75+ if the buyer is looking for that specific emblem (e.g., Safeway, Sears, or specific Union logos).
Description
Vintage Bulova gold-tone dress watch featuring a classic champagne dial with black Arabic numerals. This piece includes a unique custom service award expansion band featuring a 'Safety' or 'Years of Service' emblem with a gold-tone 'S' over a heart inset with two pink rubies and two clear stones. Swiss quartz movement for accuracy and ease of maintenance.
Key Features
Reputable legacy brand (Bulova); Easy-to-read Arabic numeral dial; Unusual 'Service Award' customization which appeals to niche emblem/corporate history collectors; Swiss-made movement components.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct Bulova font and logo placement; 'T SWISS MADE T' marking at 6 o'clock indicates authentic tritium use from that era; Case back likely stamped with Bulova codes (e.g., P9 or T1). High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Significant plating wear on the expansion band and case corners; Unknown battery status (must assume it needs one); The custom 'S' badge may limit appeal to general buyers unless they share that specific initial or corporate history.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the primary choice for reaching collectors. Facebook Marketplace for a quick local sale as a 'work watch.'
Selling Tips
Replace the battery before listing to confirm it works; this doubles the price immediately. Use keywords like 'Service Award', 'Corporate Gift', 'Tritium Dial', and 'Grandpa Style'. Take a macro photo of the case back and the 'S' logo.