Bulova 1968 Oceanographer

Submitted by Reverend Rob on August 26, 2017 - 11:22am
H
Manufacture Year
1968
Movement Model
11BLACD
Movement Jewels
17
Movement Serial No.
-
Case Serial No.
F619068
Case shape
Cushion
Case color
Yellow
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

Dial marked 'Oceanographer', so I think that's a good start....  Not sure if the movt is based on anything, but the simplicity of the date mechanism is refreshing to say the least. Bi-Directional winding with KIF Elastor shock setting.  Case made in West Germany, and has the reference code 2894, M8 date code. Bulova Signed crown, most likely original with two gaskets. 

1968 Bulova Oceanographer H watch
1968 Bulova watch
1968 Bulova watch
1968 Bulova watch
Geoff Baker
Posted August 27, 2017 - 7:35am

Looks right for Oceanographer H. Interesting that the advert refers to 'super waterproof' yet this one is marked 333. It seems that the two gasket crown would add some level of protection.

Andersok
Posted August 27, 2017 - 2:27pm

I agree with Oceanographer "H". I've looked through the Oceanographer ads and notice that where 'Super Waterproof' is shown on the dial and where a depth number is also mentioned in the description, it states only 333 feet. I think the two are interchangeable - 333 and Super Waterproof.

Reverend Rob
Posted August 28, 2017 - 8:10pm

Just a quick word on the whole depth rating thing.

I never advise anyone to submerge a vintage watch, regardless of the rating. It's just not worth it to find out the hard way that it is not water resistant. Now, I'm not sure how they determined the rating in the old days, but this watch wouldn't last a minute at 333 feet. 

Today, depth ratings are determined by a static test, that is, the watch does not move. As soon as you start thrashing around in the water, especially surface swimming, you need a screw down crown and a minimum of 100m. At that depth, which is also expressed as 333 feet, the pressure exerted on the watch is 11 atmospheres, or 161.65 pounds per square inch. 

I tell my customers that in order to maintain the watch's rating, the gaskets must be replaced every two to four years, as well as the crystal. This was the standard advice we gave also at the depot I worked at where we saw a lot of high rated watches. Hot water would void most warranties because rubber shrinks in heat. It never ceased to amaze me how many people showered with their watches on. Even if your watch is rated, your bracelet will accumulate soap residue and the pins may corrode, even if they are stainless. If one breaks, your watch may hit the sidewalk.