The watch still runs perfectly on time. The wrist band appears to be the original with black leather inserts on the first 9 links on both sides and stamped Japan Pat. #2515817. Per several ads I found, the watch is yellow rolled gold plate with a stainless steel back Model 113Y Neptune. L3 and serial number 5733993 are stamped on the back. Is there anyway to determine where this watch was purchased by the serial number. I am trying to find out if my Father purchased this watch or possibly was given to him as a gift by Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. Per two certified jewelers I visited today, April 21st, the face is brass and speckled effect is rust. The crystal is acrylic round dome and suggested having it buffed and polished rather than replaced. Replacement may not even be available and could be costly. Both hesitant to remove back to check for other numbers and believed the back appeared to have never been opened. Employees at both stores said they wouldn't clean it if the watch was theirs. All liked the unique style, antique look of the gold plating and the speckled effect on the face. Was told it is in very good condition for being 60 years old, very rare and valuable. Found pictures of my Father wearing this watch from the '50's and 60's with the gold band as shown in the ads. But pictures from beginning the early 70's with the band as shown in the pictures I have posted. Have determined this was a farewell gift from the Goodyear Tire Store employees in Canton, Oh when he was transferred back to Cleveland, Oh. When my Father passed away in 1994, my brother got this watch and was given to me when he recently passed away. This watch has traveled to several cities in Ohio, Jackson, MI, Chicago, IL, Newport Richey, FL, Winston-Salem, NC, Union City, TN and now back in Chicago, Il. Someday it will belong to one of my 5 grandson to further add history and travels.
Thank you Bobbee! That is one of the ads I found on this site but didn't know how to post it. The other ad is in 1955 listings. The face on these ads look to be plain white or possible cream colored. Mine is a speckled pattern of cream and light golden brown without the whale. The hour, minute and second hand have a little rust. Wonder if it's rust on the face as well. What material are the faces made of? Need to have a reliable jeweler look at it
The Neptune model 113 Y appears in the earliest Bulova model price lists we have- The Novemeber 1954 monthly supplement. It's appearance in the monthly supplement suggests is a newer model, maybe being released within a year of November 1954? The watches in the supplements (and in sections of quarterly lists for "newer releases") suggest these entries are fairly new models. I'm guessing this watch was advertised as the Neptune in 1953, and we simply don't have an ad that early.
You are all so welcome and happy you appreciate the post. I will add updates when I have a jeweler look at it. I wish I could have gotten a better picture of the face with the speckled design to determine if it is some rust or how it should look. You can see a little of the speckling on the outer edges but my flash distorted the middle. It is a classy design and even though it's a mens...I will wear my Dad's watch with pride.....thanks again to all...Karen
There are several ads for this shape Neptune in the DB, same dial and movement jewels. 1955 ad.