Bulova Art Deco Rectangular Dress Watch
Dress Watch · Bulova (Independent historically, now part of Citizen Watch Co.), mid-range heritage brand known for mass-market innovation and stylish vintage designs
Period: Art Deco (1930s-1940s)
Type
Dress Watch
Brand
Bulova (Independent historically, now part of Citizen Watch Co.), mid-range heritage brand known for mass-market innovation and stylish vintage designs
Movement
Manual-hand-wound mechanical movement with small seconds subdial
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 21mm, thickness 9mm, lug-to-lug 38mm, lug width 16mm
Description
A charming and historically rich vintage Bulova dress watch exemplifying the classic Art Deco design language of the mid-20th century. Featuring an eye-catching curved rectangular case, a sophisticated two-tone sector dial with contrasting textures, and elegant Roman numeral markers, this timepiece embodies the elegance and optimism of its era. With its distinctive subdial at 6 o'clock and warm yellow gold tones, it offers wonderful vintage wrist presence for collectors of mid-century horology.
Key Features
Curved rectangular case profile, two-tone sector dial layout, elongated Roman numerals, sub-seconds register at 6 o'clock, and classic period-correct styling
Dial Description
Two-tone rectangular dial with sector design, prominent applied Roman numerals at 12 and 6, elongated yellow gold baton/ray indices, sword hands, and a square small seconds subdial at 6 o'clock
Case Material
Yellow gold filled or plated with polished finish and curved profile
Crystal Type
Acrylic/Plexiglass curved crystal following the contour of the rectangular case
Bezel Details
Integrated smooth fixed bezel forming part of the curved rectangular case design
Crown & Pushers
Small unsigned pull-out onion crown positioned at the 3 o'clock side
Bracelet or Strap
Aftermarket brown crocodile-pattern leather strap with matching yellow gold-tone pin buckle
Caseback Details
Snap-on solid metal caseback, likely featuring Bulova hallmark stampings and case serial numbers inside
Movement Type
Manual-hand-wound mechanical movement with small seconds subdial
Water Resistance
None (Not water-resistant). Must be strictly kept away from moisture, rain, and humidity due to vintage age and lack of modern gaskets
Origin & Provenance
Swiss movement encased in American-made case, typical of Bulova production models from the mid-20th century
Age Estimate
Circa 1930s to 1940s based on the distinct Art Deco geometrical sector dial and curved rectangular case geometry
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the Art Deco era, bringing stylish, architecturally inspired wristwatch designs to the middle class through reliable American-assembled movements
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. The gold-plated case shows noticeable surface wear, scratching, and plating loss around the high points and edges. The dial exhibits significant aging, spotting, and patina appropriate for its age. Crystal has minor surface scratches. Movement winds and runs but would benefit from a professional service
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $150 to $400 USD depending on the working condition of the movement, original signed components, and overall aesthetic preservation
Care & Maintenance
Requires gentle handling as vintage mechanical watches lack modern shock protection and water resistance. Avoid all contact with water, keep away from strong magnetic fields, and recommend a professional movement overhaul every 5 to 7 years
Similar Watches
Gruen Curvex, Hamilton Piping Rock or Spur, Elgin rectangular dress watches, and vintage rectangular Longines dress models
Interesting Facts
Bulova was a pioneer in standardized watch production and aggressive marketing, famously airing the world's first television commercial in 1941. During the mid-20th century, their stylistic variety made them one of the most popular brands in America