Bulova Marine Star Chronograph Ref. 96B255
Chronograph / Sport Watch · Bulova (Owned by Citizen Watch Co.). A historic American heritage brand positioned in the entry-to-mid luxury market tier.
Period: Modern Luxury-Sport Era (c. 2010s). Characterized by a blend of classical dress elements (Roman numerals) and oversized sport case architecture.
Type
Chronograph / Sport Watch
Brand
Bulova (Owned by Citizen Watch Co.). A historic American heritage brand positioned in the entry-to-mid luxury market tier.
Movement
Japanese Quartz Chronograph Movement. Features center chronograph seconds, 60-minute counter, and 24-hour subdial.
Dimensions
Case Diameter: 43mm; Thickness: 12mm; Lug-to-Lug: 50mm; Lug Width: 22mm.
Description
A versatile everyday timepiece that bridges the gap between formal attire and casual sportiness. The Marine Star collection is one of Bulova's most successful lines, known for its nautical inspiration and robust construction. This model features a sophisticated black dial accented by classical Roman numerals, providing a high-contrast look that is easily readable.
Key Features
Signature tuning fork logo at 12 o'clock; textured dial center; Roman numeral indices (uncommon for many sport chronos); integrated-look bracelet end links.
Dial Description
Black textured dial with sunburst/linear pattern center; applied silver-tone Roman numeral indices; luminous alpha-style hands; date window between 4 and 5 o'clock; three-subdial chronograph layout.
Case Material
316L Stainless Steel with a combination of brushed and polished finishes.
Crystal Type
Flat Mineral Crystal. Highly clear but more prone to scratching than sapphire.
Bezel Details
Fixed, polished stainless steel bezel with a thin, sloping profile.
Crown & Pushers
Standard push-pull crown with Bulova tuning fork logo; two rectangular pump-style pushers for starting, stopping, and resetting the chronograph.
Bracelet or Strap
Three-link stainless steel 'Oyster-style' bracelet with brushed outer links and polished center links; folding clasp with safety bar.
Caseback Details
Solid, screw-down stainless steel caseback featuring the Bulova tuning fork logo and model specifications.
Movement Type
Japanese Quartz Chronograph Movement. Features center chronograph seconds, 60-minute counter, and 24-hour subdial.
Water Resistance
Rated for 100 meters (10 ATM). Suitable for swimming and snorkeling, but not recommended for high-impact water sports or diving given the push-pull crown design.
Origin & Provenance
Brand origin: USA (New York); Manufacturing: Japanese movement (Miyota) cased in China/Hong Kong.
Age Estimate
Circa 2015-2020. Modern production based on the 'BOLO' Bulova logo and modern case sizing.
Cultural Significance
The Marine Star represents Bulova's transition from an American watchmaking titan to a contemporary brand that provides horological heritage at an accessible price point.
Condition Notes
Based on the image, the watch appears in 'Good' condition. There is visible surface scratching on the polished center links of the bracelet and around the bezel, consistent with regular wear.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD (MSRP is higher, but secondary market prices for quartz Bulovas typically fall in this range depending on condition).
Care & Maintenance
Requires battery replacement every 2-3 years. If the crown is not screw-down, avoid immersion in water. Clean the bracelet with a soft brush and water to prevent 'wrist gunk' buildup.
Similar Watches
Seiko SNDC33 Chronograph (more military styling), Tissot PRC 200 (Swiss alternative), or the Citizen Corso Chronograph (Eco-Drive equivalent).
Interesting Facts
Bulova was the first brand to air a television commercial in 1941 and played a significant role in NASA missions with their Accutron technology, competing directly with Omega during the space race.