I just acquired this item and I'm submiting it for the database. I believe it to be 1950 Academy Award "W". Besides the above information, the case back is labeled "LO" and the movement is labeled "49", The Kriesler band appears to be accurate, from other photos and ads. Included with the watch was the AA display case shown in the photo. Thanks, Rich.
In reply to The band is correct and by JEV1A
In reply to Now that's a pretty neat case by plainsmen
My L-0 AA Model is seen here. I purchased through Bonhams in Hollywood. The watch is verified wth paperwork from The Hoagy Charmichael Estate in Palm Springs, CA. The original snapshot of him and wife holding AA's is from his personal scrapbook.
Notice the Band. Its a 16mm at the first Link and them widens to a 18mm Extension Band size. Therefore the Tuxcedo Case Bezel matches and is flush with the Extension Band. The "wild" Bamboo Case with tags was also included in the purchase. Although I have seen the Bamboo Band match with this Model AA, I have only seen the 16mm and not the Wide Bamboo Band as I own.
Hoagy Charmichael was a Oscar Winning Singer-Songwriter and Actor.
In reply to That really completes the by rbaines
There are several currently for sale on e-bay as well as the clamshell watch cases. The value has gone down on this model in recent years. I really don't understand the reasons why. There is really nothing else out there that has the AMPAS Academy Award Official Logo on it other than the OSCAR itself. For that very reason I would think Collectors would go crazy for it. Its also about old time watchmakers are dying off and the business of watchmaking a dying art form. So the less people talking about certain vintage models of collectable watches, the less are interested. But if you ask me, My AA is most certainly a "Collectable Investment" and you should be very proud to own one. JEV1A
In reply to There are several currently by JEV1A
To be honest, being new to vintage collecting, a few weeks ago I knew nothing about the AA series. I was attracted to this watch by its aesthetics. I just like the way it looks. In researching it, I became aware of the multiple variants, the lawsuit etc. So, while some people may be losing interest, others are gaining interest. Maybe it balances out in the end.
In reply to To be honest, being new to by rbaines
"Lest to say, one of the most interesting watches ever made! Incredible conversation piece and just a darn good looking watch.. welcome to the AA club.
If you look closely inside the Clam Shell AA Case there is a small clip opening on the lower right inside case top that fits a Bulova "Sandwich Board" tag that shows Logo and Price. I had one and sold it because somebody was willing to pay big bucks. Its really rare. The tag I have is not correct. The Sandwich Board tags"full size" were put in Movie Theaters of the Day advertising the Watches. The little tag is a duplicate red to match the velvet trimmed in gold to match the "Golden Curtain".
I also had the Outer Box that I sold off as well..
JEV1A