1924-1949 watch dating chart

Submitted by webwitness on July 19, 2010 - 12:39pm

 According to the watch dating chart for 1924-1949, the "O" mark can indicate any one of three years, 1925, 1934 or 1944.  What other criteria can I use to determine which of the years is correct for my watch.

Thanks to all.

Bob

Stephen Ollman
Posted July 21, 2010 - 1:48am

Bob, generally speaking Bulova watches of the 1920s, 30s and 40s are quite different in design. Some points to look for.

1920s

  • radium hands and dial numbers
  • serial numbers on movement and inside back case
  • art deco look with plenty of case engraving (usually)
  • Swiss movements

1930s

  • solid hands, usually gold or black
  • raised dial numbers, usually gold
  • serial numbers on movement and inside back case (1930 to about 1935)
  • USA Movements (1935 to about 1940)
  • usually very squared or stepped casing with engraving

1940s

  • solid hands
  • raised dial numbers
  • no movement serial number
  • serial number on back of case (outside)
  • usually square in design
  • not alot of case engraving

If you look through the vintage Bulova ads you start to see the common styles above in the watch ads.

Hope that helps!

Stephen.

webwitness
Posted August 20, 2010 - 6:35pm

In reply to by Stephen Ollman

Stephen,
Thanks so much for your input.  I'm having a blast dating these items. I will be posting some photos soon now that I'm "digital"
Bob