Bulova 1929 Gladiator

Submitted by DennisVA on April 7, 2013 - 11:35pm
Manufacture Year
1929
Movement Model
10AN
Movement Date Code
Shield
Movement Jewels
15
Movement Serial No.
601497
Case Serial No.
9283434
Case shape
Tonneau
Case color
Two-tone
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Crystal details
BBX2485- 24.90mmx15.65mm
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

I believe this a 1929 Gladiator, The Bulova case does not have any markings anywhere as to Gold content, whether or not it is filled or solid.

There is no F (for filled) on the bezel as is common on these older watches. I took the case to three jewelers, the first one said "Sorry no Gold content, however if you want to sell it I'll give you a Hundred dollars". Second one said 10K Solid Gold. Third one (who has one of those fancy machines) said 14K Solid Gold, so I'm not sure.

The dial is as found, just cleaned it up. The Crystal came from Darren, it is for a Gladiator but I had to file about .05mm from the sides and ends.

The case measures 37.02mm lug to lug and 26.60mm not including the crown.

Click below for 1930 Gladiator Advert.

http://www.mybulova.com/sites/default/files/vintage_ads/bulova-ad-1930-2.jpg 

Bulova watch - Posted 4/7/13
Bulova watch
Bulova watch
Bulova Watch
Bulova Watch
Geoff Baker
Posted April 9, 2013 - 5:48am

To confirm - I would also vote it a Gladiator

madmenwatches
Posted August 3, 2014 - 3:40pm

Very nice and clean. Love that two-tone case. 

William Smith
Posted August 3, 2014 - 4:21pm

Unless the case back is a replacement, which is unlikely, I think a solid gold case would have been hallmarked as such.  I'm good with tentative Gladiator... I'll check what Lisa is calling this watch, as I think she has one.

EDIT:  Lisa has a 1930 example, similar case markings (hers has the "AAA" under "Bulova Quality") and very similar dimensions.  She is not sure if solid or filled gold.