Identifying / Valuing a bulova Astronaut

Submitted by brice behringer on May 22, 2012 - 1:39pm

Hello.

I recently found my father's old Bulova Astronaut.

First, I'd like a positive ID on this watch.  The number suggests 1967 manufacture but can't figure out the serial number.  Where can I find more information on this watch?

Second, the crystal is pretty scratched up.  What would be the value of this watch and is it worth getting it repaired / cleaned up?  The battery is the old Rayovac but I don't think they make it anymore.  What is the best replacement battery?

Finally, Where can I get it repaired and reconditioned, with a new crystal?  Is this even do-able anymore and is it worth it to try?

Pictures attached...  Well, it won't seem to allow me to upload the pictures.  So, the numbers on the back are M7, and C35906.  It's a Bulova Accutron Astronaut.  Any help is greatly appreciated.

Best Regards,

Brice Behringer

JP
Posted May 22, 2012 - 2:28pm

We here at mybulova.com don't price watches but if it is your fathers watch then it should be worth fixing for the sentimental value. To own a Bulova and know its history is a priceless thing. There are many watch makers who advertise on our site  and all are good at fixing Bulova watches. Just watch the ads as the come up and pick a few to call.

JP

Jim Townsend
Posted May 22, 2012 - 4:35pm

I if it were me i would no doubt have it fixed. You can add pictures at the top in the home pull down you will see add a watch,Just follow the directions and you will be able to add it.

brice behringer
Posted May 22, 2012 - 11:25pm

Thanks all - I for sure want to get it working again and a nicer crystal for it cause, hey, it was dad's after all.

the best match I could find for the battery was the Energizer 387S.  unfortunately, it didn't run, and I don't know if it was just not the right battery or something else.  What have y'all found to be a good replacement battery for the Astronaut?

Jim Townsend
Posted May 23, 2012 - 4:10am

They take a special battery, not your run of the mill watch battries. You need to take it to a watch shop or jewler and have the correct battery installed. 1.55V silver oxide battery .

Jim Townsend
Posted May 23, 2012 - 4:11am

bobbee
Posted May 23, 2012 - 4:21am

You've got TWO Jim? C'mon buddy, share the love!

jfoley
Posted May 23, 2012 - 8:44am

brice, your asstronaut is worth fixing, adding to the fact that it was your dads even more so. if you would like i can pm u my watchmakers ph. no.

brice behringer
Posted May 23, 2012 - 10:51am

Jim, I'd appreciate that, thanks.

Jim Townsend
Posted May 23, 2012 - 5:00pm

Hey Brice i sent you a PM.

Timemachines
Posted May 23, 2012 - 11:54pm

Hey Brice,

 Dont run the silver oxide 387s battery in that accutron. This watch was designed to run on 1.35 volt  mecury battery, and since Clinten outlawed mecury batteries, some use the 1.55 volt silver oxide battery. After running for 30 years on the 1.35 V battery, it will surely expadite the total failure of your coil set within a reasonably amount if time.

 Go to Ebay and buy a "Accucell battery" and it has a resister on the battery that lowers the voltage from 1.55v to 1.35v and your coil set will love you for it. 

 

 Mike........

brice behringer
Posted May 23, 2012 - 9:56pm

Hm... well the battery i found in it was a 1.55 volt so perhaps thats why it stopped running. It didnt work at all with the new 387s.

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