Bulova - Automatic - No reserve price - 394 - Men - 1965

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, offering a blend of elegance and robust engineering. Produced in 1965, this Bulova Automatic 23 Jewels features the desirable "Waterproof" dancer caseback and a high-grade movement that is performing exceptionally well. With its crisp sunburst dial and sharp stainless steel case, this timepiece represents the golden era of Bulova's "M-series" production, combining a dressy aesthetic with reliable everyday performance. The movement was recently serviced, and timegrapher results confirm it is in outstanding health, making it a collector-grade piece ready for the wrist. Brand: Bulova Reference Number: 394 Movement: Automatic Caliber 11 BLACD Dial: Silver sunburst Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1965 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a very well-preserved dial and sharp case lines. The movement is running with exceptional accuracy for its age, showing +1 to +5 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Dial and Hands The silver dial is finished with a subtle sunburst texture that catches the light beautifully. It features applied silver-tone baton indices and the applied Bulova signature, all of which remain bright and distinct. The dauphine-style hands are original, showing characteristic aging to the luminous inserts which matches the vintage aesthetic. The date window at the 3 o'clock position is framed in a trapezoidal aperture, adding a geometric touch to the layout. The text remains crisp and legible throughout. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures a versatile 36mm and features attractive twisted lugs that give the watch a sophisticated profile. The case retains its definition with sharp edges, showing only minor surface wear consistent with careful handling over the decades. The screw-down caseback is a highlight for collectors, featuring the deep relief "Dancer" or "Ballerina" logo, distinct and well-preserved. The inside of the caseback bears the reference number 394 and the date code M5. The crown is signed with the Bulova name. Movement Powering the watch is the high-grade Bulova caliber 11 BLACD automatic movement. This 23-jewel mechanism is finished in a gold tone and features a skeletonized rotor incorporating the Bulova name. The movement is stamped with the M5 date code, confirming production in 1965. It is mechanically excellent, having been recently serviced, and is currently running within vintage tolerances and achieving chronometer-like numbers on the timegrapher at +1 to +5 seconds per day, which indicates a very healthy movement. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap with a crocodile grain pattern. The strap is in good condition and complements the stainless steel case perfectly, enhancing the dress watch aesthetic. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is remarkably clean for a watch from the mid-1960s, free from heavy patina or damage. The case shows honest signs of age but no abuse, maintaining its original architectural lines. The crystal is clear, allowing for an unobstructed view of the dial. Mechanically, the watch is performing superbly. Dimensions With a case diameter of 36mm excluding the crown, the watch sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes, offering a classic vintage presence that is neither too small nor obtrusive. Remarks This 1965 Bulova stands out due to its high-jewel count movement and the iconic caseback imagery. It captures the essence of 1960s design where utility met formal elegance. Finding a 23-jewel automatic from this era with such impressive timekeeping metrics is becoming increasingly difficult, making this a compelling opportunity for the vintage enthusiast. History Bulova was a pioneer in the watch industry during the 20th century, known for both American innovation and Swiss precision. By the 1960s, their self-winding watches were staples of professional life. The "M" dating system used by Bulova allows collectors to pinpoint the exact year of manufacture, with "M5" designating 1965. This period is often celebrated for producing some of the brand's most durable and attractive mechanical watches before the quartz revolution. / Second Vintage SKU: BUL-BAJ-0002