1952 Bulova Randall "Arthur Murray Award". I have no additional information on the 'Award' so if someone has some insight why these were given out at dance studios/schools I would love to hear about it.
This was my late grandfather's watch who was not involved in dance in the slightest. He came to America in '82 so how he acquired the watch is a mystery. My grandmother gave it to me after learning I had taken an interest in watches. I've since had it serviced and it runs very well. Seems to run about +5-10 seconds/day - I wear it very infrequently so accuracy isn't a concern.
The watch definitely predates your grandfather coming to America by 30 years. Based on our 1957 Linebook BAWD #0132 which we have determined goes back to 1953 you watch is a 1952 Bulova Randall. I love these award watches with custom dials. It was most likely awarded during an Arthur Murray dance contest or was presented to an employee or manager for hitting corporate goals etc.
In reply to Point of interest: I have a… by neetstuf-4-u
A sign I'm getting old. I don't recall seeing your watch Bob, despite commenting on it.
I think it's wonderful seeing another example. Makes you wonder even more the history of these award watches, although I imagine Bob's theory would be pretty close to the mark.
Now to solve the mystery around how the subject watch came to be in the possession of the owners garndfather. What a great item to own.