Bulova watches | Pre-owned and vintage

We've spent years tracking vintage Bulova watches across auctions, estate sales, and specialist dealers. The American watchmaker delivered exceptional value throughout the 20th century, from art deco pocket watches to groundbreaking Accutron tuning fork technology. Collectors prize authentic vintage Bulova timepieces for their innovative movements, distinctive designs, and accessible pricing compared to Swiss competitors. Pre-owned Bulova watches range dramatically—from $150 art deco ladies' pieces to $3,500 Accutron Spaceview models in pristine condition. We've watched a 1960s Devil Diver sell for $2,800 at auction, while gold-filled dress watches regularly fetch $300-600 depending on originality.

Finding genuine vintage Bulova watches requires careful authentication and market knowledge. Estate sales yield exceptional discoveries for patient collectors. Online auction platforms like eBay host hundreds of vintage Bulova wristwatches daily, though quality varies wildly. Specialized dealers offer curated selections with authenticity guarantees. The secondary market remains robust because enthusiasts recognize Bulova's technical innovations—military-issued models, Accutron technology pieces, and limited edition chronographs command premium pricing from informed buyers.

A selection of the best Bulova watches available online

Our team selects the rarest Bulova mens watches but also the nicest Bulova women's watches online. On Watch-Deal, we have a strong expertise on luxury watches like Bulova. This enables us to select the best models for you. We are looking for splendid Bulova diamond watches or Bulova mens gold watches, or some other nice models like the Bulova Moon Watch.

Our selection of the best Bulova watches currently available online. Pre-owned and vintage Bulova models.
Updated everyday, add this page to your favorites if you like Bulova timepieces.

RARE PRE-OWNED BULOVA WATCHES FOR COLLECTORS :

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The best Bulova watches for collectors

The best vintage Bulova watches combine historical significance, craftsmanship, and investment potential in their elegant cases. We consider the Accutron Spaceview to be the crown jewel of any serious collection, with its transparent dial revealing the revolutionary tuning fork movement. For men seeking a versatile everyday piece, the Bulova Sea King offers impressive water resistance and timeless styling. Vintage military models, especially those produced for pilots during WWII, represent exceptional value with their oversized cases and highly legible dials. The Bulova "23" series with its high-jewel count automatic mechanisms delivers remarkable accuracy. Chronograph enthusiasts should hunt for the rare "Stars and Stripes" model with its distinctive red, white and blue design elements. Many of our clients find that these vintage wrist watch company timepieces appreciate steadily while delivering daily wearing pleasure.

What are the most sought-after Bulova watches ?

Well, the Bulova Moon Watch has several fans but it is also the case for Bulova Marine Star or the fascinating Bulova black watch. Is it easy to get a Bulova ? To give you some precise examples, a Bulova Accutron square-gold with case will worth around $600 while a more common Bulova Super Seville Mens Automatic Day Date will be around $150.

A vintage Bulova Accutron watch

The value of vintage Bulova watches

The value of vintage Bulova watches varies widely based on rarity, condition, and historical significance of each model. We see Accutron Spaceviews commanding prices between $500-$1,500 depending on case material and originality. The average collector-grade Bulova from the 1950s-60s typically fetches $200-$500 when in excellent working condition with its original dial. Most gold-filled models from this era tend to be worth 20-30% more than their stainless steel counterparts. Information about production numbers is crucial when determining value - watches from limited production years like 1941-1945 often carry significant premiums. We recently helped a collector authenticate a rare 1960 14k gold Bulova "President" that had quadrupled in value over the past decade. Military-issued examples with proper markings and documentation can reach several thousand dollars in today's market and end in our Top 100 Vintage Watches selection

What styles of vintage Bulova are available?

The styles of vintage Bulova watches span decades of design evolution, offering something for every collector's taste. We particularly love the art deco wrist watches from the 1920s-30s with their geometric cases and bold numerals. The gold filled dress models from the 1940s-50s exude elegance with their slim profiles and understated dials. Many collectors seek out the yellow gold President series for their executive appeal, while others prefer the versatility of white gold dress pieces that pair beautifully with any attire. The automatic Swiss made models from the 1960s blend precision engineering with timeless design elements. Bulova brilliantly balanced classic and modern wrist aesthetics throughout their production history. Their unique rectangular tank watches offer a distinctly American take on an iconic shape, often featuring stepped cases and applied hour markers that catch the light beautifully.

How to get a Bulova chronograph here ?

Just click on the Bulova watch that you like and we will redirect you towards the online boutique where you can get it. We hope you will find a rare ladies Bulova watch for your collection here. Our selection of second hand Bulova for sale is used by hundreds of Bulova collectors everyday. We help you find and purchase rare pre-owned Bulova that you can buy on eBay. 

What is the history of Bulova watches?

The history of Bulova began in 1875 when Joseph Bulova, a Czech immigrant watchmaker, opened his first shop in New York City. We often tell collectors that understanding this rich heritage enhances their appreciation of these timepieces. The company pioneered many first innovations, including standardized production of watch components and the world's first television commercial in 1941. Bulova's original vision focused on precision timekeeping accessible to average Americans, revolutionizing how people viewed timekeeping.

The brand's design philosophy evolved dramatically through the decades, from Art Deco elegance to mid-century modernism. We've studied how Bulova reflected American cultural shifts in their timepieces. About 1960, the company unveiled its groundbreaking Accutron technology, the world's first electronic watch with a tuning fork mechanism. This cemented Bulova's reputation as a technological innovator. The company's collaboration with NASA resulted in their Lunar Pilot chronograph being worn during Apollo missions. Many collectors don't realize Bulova remained American-owned until 1979 when the Loews Corporation acquired it, eventually becoming part of the Citizen watchmaker group in 2007 while maintaining its distinctive design identity.

Bulova also created a signature "Frank Sinatra" collection during this period, which featured elegant dress watches that reflected Sinatra's sophisticated style and image. These timepieces were designed to appeal to the fashionable American man who identified with Sinatra's charm and classic taste.

Bulova's commitment to precision timekeeping extended beyond their innovative automatic movements to include exceptional manual wind watches that showcased meticulous craftsmanship. During the 1950s and 1960s, the company produced several notable manually-wound models featuring Swiss-made movements that rivaled their European counterparts in accuracy and reliability.

These timepieces often included special features like high-jewel count mechanisms (often 21 or 23 jewels), shock protection systems, and fine adjustment regulators that allowed for remarkable precision. The satisfying ritual of the daily wind became part of the ownership experience, creating a personal connection between the wearer and their timepiece.

Collectors particularly value the slim-profile dress watches with manual movements, as they allowed Bulova's designers to create elegantly thin cases that slipped perfectly under a shirt cuff. The precision and reliability of these hand-wound mechanisms has contributed significantly to their longevity, with many examples still keeping excellent time after decades of service.

Your questions about old Bulova watches

You have sent us some questions about vintage Bulava watches. Please find below our answers :

What are the best vintage Bulova models?

The Bulova Accutron revolutionized watchmaking with tuning fork technology in 1960. We consistently recommend the Spaceview 214 cushion case model for serious collectors. The Devil Diver commands premium prices due to its distinctive design and rarity. Vintage gold Super Seville automatic watches represent peak 1970s craftsmanship and elegance. Art deco pocket watches from the 1920s showcase Bulova's early design mastery beautifully. Marine Star models blend sporting functionality with everyday wearability perfectly. Limited edition pieces appreciate faster than standard production runs in today's market. Mens watch collectors prioritize chronographs and military-issued references for historical significance. Ladies watch enthusiasts seek art deco designs with original bracelets and cases. Quartz watch models from the late 1970s offer affordable entry points for new collectors.

How to identify authentic vintage Bulova?

Authenticity verification starts with movement examination and serial number documentation. Reviews from Bulova experts help collectors understand proper dial printing and case construction. The condition of original components matters more than superficial cosmetic restoration attempts. Vintage Bulova watches feature distinctive case back engravings matching production records precisely. History research through vintage catalogs confirms legitimate model variations and specifications. Rare pieces require extra scrutiny because counterfeits target high-value references specifically. Sold auction records provide comparison points for evaluating questionable examples thoroughly. Original model characteristics include specific dial fonts, hand styles, and logo placements. Pre-owned vintage watches should show consistent aging across all components naturally. Watchmaking expertise proves essential when authenticating complex Accutron or chronograph movements. Antique Bulova pieces demand professional assessment before significant investment decisions. Vintage Bulova ladies watches often feature delicate movements requiring specialist knowledge for verification.

What is the price range for vintage Bulova?

Regular price points start around $150 for common ladies watch models in acceptable condition. Vintage condition dramatically affects value—original, unrestored examples command premium pricing consistently. The selection available through auctions reveals true market values through competitive bidding. We've watched rare Accutron Spaceview models sell for $2,500-3,500 at major sales. Gold-filled cases typically fetch $300-600 depending on originality and preservation quality. Discover exceptional value in less common references that knowledgeable collectors overlook regularly. Explore mens watch chronographs ranging $800-2,000 for excellent condition examples with documentation. Silver tone and gold tone pieces offer accessible entry points at $200-400. Reviews of recent auction results help establish realistic expectations for specific models. 10k gold cases command higher prices than gold-plated alternatives in today's market.

Where to find vintage Bulova reviews?

Reviews from Bulova specialists appear on dedicated watchmaking blogs and collector forums. Explore auction house catalogs for detailed condition reports and historical context. The shop environment at established dealers provides hands-on examination opportunities before purchasing. Discover authentication guides through vintage watch content creators and horological publications. Our featured selection includes pieces vetted by experienced collectors and professional watchmakers. History research through Bulova archives reveals production dates and original specifications accurately. Contact specialist dealers for personalized guidance on authenticity verification and market values. Guide materials from reputable sellers help collectors distinguish genuine pieces from reproductions. Seller transactions through established platforms offer buyer protection and documented provenance. Authenticity certificates from recognized experts add significant value and peace of mind.

What are popular vintage Bulova styles?

Popular vintage Bulova pieces include art deco dress watches from the 1920s-30s. The Bulova ladies watch category features elegant designs with refined proportions and detailing. Caravelle by Bulova offered accessible Swiss-quality timepieces for budget-conscious collectors today. Stainless steel sport models provide durability and timeless aesthetic appeal for daily wear. Pocket watches represent Bulova's earliest craftsmanship with intricate movements and decorative cases. Wrist watch designs evolved from cushion cases to streamlined modern profiles beautifully. Gold-plated models served formal occasions while maintaining accessible pricing for middle-class buyers. Classic round cases dominated production throughout Bulova's golden era of the 1950s-60s. Elegant design elements include textured dials, applied indices, and sculpted lugs. Quartz watches from the 1970s-80s represent technological transition and accessible vintage collecting. The collection spans over a century of American watchmaking innovation and style evolution. Browse our complete selection of vintage watches for more collectible timepieces.