What you didn’t know about Bulova Watches. Ultimate in-depth Guide

Bulova watches are pretty popular nowadays, But do you know how they started and became the household name they are today? If not then this is the right Article to know about Bulova Watches.

A short history lesson

Founded by a Bohemian immigrant called Joseph Bulova. Bulova is an American watch company founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova. Bulova started as a small jewelry shop in New York City specializing in jewelry and the repair of clocks. Fast-forward 36 years later and Bulova started producing pocket watches and table clocks. 1912 was a critical year in Bulova’s history.

That year Joseph launched his first watch-making factory in Biel, Switzerland. He started with mass production of watches until the year 1919 when Bulova presented its complete range of watches for men and women. After the success of their watches, Joseph changed his company name from J. Bulova Company to Bulova Watch Company in 1923.

In 1927 Joseph noticed that his watches were exactly correct in showing the time. To solve this problem Joseph decided to set up an observatory on the roof of a skyscraper so he could determine the universal time precisely. Bulova achieved its biggest achievement in 1952 when it released the Accutron. Fast-forward to 2008 and Bulova was bought by Citizen Watches for a whopping $250 million.

What made Bulova popular?

Bulova became popular for many reasons but the many 2 are Marketing and Celebrity Endorsements

1. Marketing: Bulova is known for its innovative marketing campaigns. The company heavily invested in advertising, particularly on radio and later on TV. Bulova was so good at advertising its brand that it created one of the first television ads ever. They did that during a baseball game where they broadcasted their slogan “Bulova time”.
2. Celebrity Endorsements: celebrities as you know by now are no strangers to watches. One of these watches was of course Bulova. One of these Celebrities was the American singer and actor Frank Sinatra. The second was not a celebrity but rather something that had to do with space. in 1971 NASA had a space mission and was looking for a watch for their astronauts. In the end, NASA chose the Omega speed master for the mission. During the 2nd excursion, Dave Scott one of the twelve astronauts in the mission had his used backup Bulova Chronograph Model 88510/01 watch after the crystal on his Omega watch popped off. Later his watch was sold for $1.625 Million at an auction in Boston.

How are Bulova Watches made?

That is an excellent question.

Bulova Watches’ quality is a part of its identity. Bulova watches are known for their 4 criteria:

1. Precision Timekeeping: Bulova has a long-standing reputation for producing highly accurate timepieces. One of these watches is the Accutron, the world’s first electronic watch using a tuning fork for timekeeping. This dedication to accuracy continues in their modern mechanical and quartz movements.
2. Craftsmanship: Bulova Watches are crafted with precision and care. The brand maintains high standards in the construction of its timepieces, using quality materials such as stainless steel, gold, sapphire crystals, and other durable components. This attention to detail ensures the longevity and durability of their watches.
3. Innovation: Throughout its history, Bulova has been at the forefront of watchmaking innovation. They have introduced new technologies and advancements, such as high-frequency movements and innovative designs, which showcase their commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.
4. Variety and Design: Bulova offers a wide range of watch styles, catering to various tastes and preferences. From classic and elegant designs to sporty and contemporary models, their diverse collections exhibit both timeless aesthetics and modern trends. The brand’s ability to adapt to different styles while maintaining quality standards adds to its appeal.

High-Quality Materials

Bulova like other reputable watch brands only uses the best materials for their watches. These materials are:

1. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a prevalent material in Bulova watches. It’s durable, corrosion-resistant, and offers a sleek, polished appearance. Many watch cases, bracelets, and sometimes bezels are crafted from stainless steel.
2. Precious Metals: Bulova also utilizes precious metals like gold (both yellow and rose gold) in some of its higher-end models. These materials can be used for cases, bracelets, and accents, adding luxury and value to the timepieces.
3. Leather: High-quality leather is often used for watch straps or bands in Bulova watches. Leather straps provide a sophisticated and classic look, adding comfort and style to the wearer.
4. Sapphire Crystal: Bulova often employs sapphire crystal for the watch face. Sapphire is extremely scratch-resistant, offering a clear and durable surface that enhances the watch’s longevity and readability.
5. Ceramic: In some collections, Bulova uses ceramic for watch cases or bezels. Ceramic is scratch-resistant, lightweight, and maintains its color well, making it a popular choice for modern, durable timepieces.
6. Titanium: Some Bulova models feature titanium, known for its strength, lightness, and resistance to corrosion. Titanium watches are durable and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
7. Carbon Fiber: In certain sportier or contemporary models, Bulova incorporates carbon fiber elements. This material is lightweight, strong, and often used for accents or dial designs.
8. Other Materials: Bulova might also use materials like mother-of-pearl for dials, rubber for straps in sport-oriented models, and various alloys for specific design elements.

Bulova Watches innovations

• Bulova Watches have been and still pioneering in the watch industry, introducing several innovative technologies and advancements throughout its history. Some of Bulova’s notable innovations include:

1. Accutron Technology: One of Bulova’s most groundbreaking innovations was the Accutron, introduced in 1960. It was the world’s first fully electronic watch, utilizing a tuning fork instead of the traditional balance wheel. The Accutron’s tuning fork system provided unprecedented accuracy, paving the way for modern quartz timekeeping.
2. Precision Engineering: Bulova was known for its emphasis on precision timekeeping. The brand implemented strict quality control measures and assembly line production techniques to ensure high accuracy and reliability in its watches.
3. Micron Precision: Bulova developed a method of manufacturing watch components with micron-level precision. This precision engineering allowed for the creation of highly accurate and reliable movements.
4. Curv Collection: Introduced in recent years, the Bulova Curv collection showcased a curved chronograph movement, representing a significant innovation in the design and comfort of chronograph watches. The curved movement was designed to fit the contours of the wrist for enhanced comfort.
5. High-Frequency Movements: Bulova has produced watches with high-frequency movements, allowing for increased accuracy and smoother sweeping seconds hands compared to traditional movements.

Bulova Watches pros & cons:

Pros

Variety of Designs: Bulova offers a broad spectrum of designs to cater to different tastes and occasions. Whether it’s classic and sophisticated styles for formal events or modern, sporty designs for everyday wear, Bulova provides options suitable for various preferences.

Precision and Accuracy: Bulova has a rich history of emphasizing accuracy in timekeeping. Their commitment to precision is evident in their technological innovations, such as the Accutron, which offered unparalleled accuracy for its time and set new standards in watchmaking.

Price: Bulova Watches offers great watches at very good prices compared to other brands. Their prices start from $300 – $700 for entry-level watches and go as high as $3000 for a high-end watch.

Cons

Watch size: Most of Bulova Watches are big coming at 44mm in size which is equal to the Apple Series 6 smartwatch.

LimitedExclusivity: Bulova watches, being widely available and accessible, might lack the exclusivity associated with more niche or high-end luxury watch brands. This factor could affect the perception of exclusivity for some consumers.

Subjective Design Preference: While Bulova offers a diverse range of designs, not every style may resonate with everyone’s personal tastes. Some individuals might prefer the aesthetics of other watch brands over Bulova’s offerings.

Battery Replacement (for Quartz Watches): Quartz watches, commonly used in Bulova timepieces, require battery replacements periodically. While this is a standard requirement for quartz watches, some users might prefer self-winding automatic watches to avoid this inconvenience.

Best Bulova Watches

Bulova Men’s Stainless Steel 3-Hand Calendar Date Quartz

Case Material: Stainless steel Case Diameter: 29mm

Band Width: 22mm Water resistance: 99FT (30M)

Bulova Men’s Classic Sutton 3-Hand 21-Jewel Automatic Watch

Case Material: Stainless steel Case Diameter: 43mm

Band Width: 22 mm Water resistance: 100ft

Bulova Men’s Military Heritage Hack Stainless Steel 3-Hand Automatic Watch

Case Material: Gray Stainless Steel Case Diameter:38mm

Band width: 18mm Water resistance: 30M

Bulova Men’s Classic Sutton 6-Hand Chronograph Calendar Big Date Leather Strap Quartz Watch

Case Material: Stainless Steel Case Diameter:44mm

Band width: 20mm Water resistance: 30M

Conclusion

Bulova watches may not be perfect but that doesn’t mean they are bad. Bulova watches have proved themselves to be a company that deserves people’s trust. They did this through their dedication to creating excellent watches at affordable prices that challenge many other brands who have higher quality watches. Do you think Bulova Watches will keep creating high-quality watches at affordable watches and you would buy one? if you already have one would you be so kind as to tell us about the Watches quality?