Presented for auction by Second Vintage
This beautifully preserved 1969 Bulova Waterproof captures the quintessential mid-century design language with its glossy black dial and sharply defined angular lugs. A versatile and striking timepiece, it embodies the robust elegance of late 1960s watchmaking, offering a commanding aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from casual to formal wear.
Brand: Bulova
Model: Waterproof
Serial Number: H47692
Movement: Manual winding, Caliber 11 ALCD, 17 Jewels
Dial: Glossy black dial with applied faceted indices, aged pumpkin lume dots, and light surface wear
Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1969
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and attractive patina
Dial and Hands
The watch features a striking glossy black dial that serves as a perfect, high-contrast backdrop for the silver-toned applied faceted baton indices. A framed date window sits cleanly at the three o'clock position. The dial is marked with "BULOVA" and "WATERPROOF" in crisp typography, flanked by "T SWISS T" at the lower edge. Original luminescent plots remain intact at the outer edge of the hour markers, having aged beautifully to a warm, attractive pumpkin patina. The matching dauphine hands retain their original luminous material, perfectly complementing the dial's vintage character. Under close visual inspection, the dial exhibits some light surface scratches and minor spotting consistent with age, maintaining a highly attractive overall presentation without detracting from its inherent charm.
Case and Crystal
The 33mm stainless steel case is distinguished by its sharp, angular lugs that provide a strong presence on the wrist despite the classic proportions. The polished surfaces of the case flanks and bezel show honest, light handling marks and superficial scratches indicative of careful vintage wear, while retaining excellent definition and structural integrity. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the Bulova name, specifications, the serial number H47692, and the M9 date code denoting 1969 production. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, presenting clearly with only minor micro-abrasions visible under direct lighting.
Movement
Powering this timepiece is the Bulova Caliber 11 ALCD, a reliable 17-jewel manual winding movement. The movement plates are clean and well-preserved, featuring clear factory engravings including the "BXW" import code. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results reflect a highly capable movement, running between -4s to -9s/day with strong amplitude.
Strap
The watch is fitted with a period-correct black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and matching black stitching. The strap is supple and complements the dressy yet versatile nature of the watch, secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The stainless steel case remains sharp with honest, light wear, and the glossy black dial retains a beautiful luster alongside its naturally aged luminous elements. The movement is remarkably clean and running with exceptional precision.
Dimensions
Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This 1969 Bulova is a fantastic example of accessible vintage watchmaking, offering a robust stainless steel case, a highly reliable manual-wind caliber, and a desirable black dial configuration. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of mid-century design.
History
Founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova in New York City, Bulova has a rich heritage of innovation and the production of quality timepieces. By the late 1960s, the brand had firmly established itself as a household name, producing reliable, stylish, and durable watches for everyday wear. The "Waterproof" designation on this model highlights the era's push towards more robust timepieces that could withstand the rigors of active lifestyles while maintaining an elegant, formal aesthetic.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: BUL-WHX-0001















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Bulova - Vintage Cal. 11 ALCD - No reserve price - H47692 - Men - 1969
Bulova • 1969
Sold for
€140
Sold on Jun 11, 2026
27 bids76 watching
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