Bulova 1968 Aeronaut

Submitted by neetstuf-4-u on February 24, 2017 - 6:50pm
H
Manufacture Year
1968
Movement Model
unknown
Movement Jewels
17
Movement Serial No.
-
Case Serial No.
F99363
Case shape
Round
Case color
White
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

This one has me mystified, so I'll throw it out to the panel. It came to me represented as new old stock, and condition would say that's true. The case (M8)  is like a mirror and measures 27.3mm not counting the crown. It is tagged as an Aeronaut H 17 jewel stainless steel. No pics of movement, as I don't want to risk marking the perfect case. I find nothing in the database under the tag info and find no other configurations like this called anything else either. Box is also one I have never seen with this style of lettering. It is curious that the watch doesn't have a second hand and under magnification it is obvious it never had one. Whatsit?

1968 Bulova Aeronaut H watch
1968 Bulova watch
1968 Bulova watch
1968 Bulova watch
1968 Bulova watch
Geoff Baker
Posted February 28, 2017 - 6:02am

I tend to go with the hang tags on NOS looking watches, this is a nice one. I don't see an advert match on site but will go along with the tag - Aeronaut H.

The placement of the date window is unusual. Typically it replaces the hour 3 marker, on this model it's inside of the 3 mark. I think this type of clam shell display case is period to the late 60's early 70's.

Andersok
Posted February 28, 2017 - 7:33am

I agree with Geoff on this one. I don't see this particular Aeronaut in an advertisement, but there is another model in a 1971 ad which shows this model name in use, and also shows the inward position of the calendar window, as well as having no second hand ( not that uncommon ). My only concern is that the price on the tag does not exactly match the price on the display box insert, minor issue. The octagonal box can be seen in photos from the 1968 (67-68) Annual Report; I haven't seen it earlier than that in an advert or other. The tag specifies Stainless Steel and a Bracelet, which this watch has both. The band is certainly different looking how it transitions from wide to the narrow section that connects to the lugs.

1968 Aeronaut H

neetstuf-4-u
Posted March 4, 2017 - 8:24am

In reply to by Andersok

Good catch on the ad showing the offset date window / no second hand on the Aeronaut "G", I didn't find that one. First ad for this model name I have seen from the correct time period. Cool! another first for the database. Band transition struck me as a little unusual as well. I spent a long time looking at this one under magnification before I posted it. It doesn't show even the slightest hint of being replaced. No marks whatsoever on insides of lugs, band ends or pins. I have to believe it's correct NOS and perhaps a marketing style variant to make the watch different with a unique look and appeal. Band is a SSteel Kreisler - Made in USA .

Geoff Baker
Posted March 4, 2017 - 8:22am

Panel?

Reverend Rob
Posted March 4, 2017 - 11:46am

Aeronaut H works for me.

With NOS watches, it is absolutely critical to get them properly serviced if you plan to run them. A dried up watch can and will destroy itself. 

jabs
Posted March 4, 2017 - 12:26pm

Aeronaut "H"