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A Vintage Stainless Steel Bulova Accutron Watch with Deep Blue/Slate Grey Dial & Beads of Rice Bracelet - Ref. 704 - c. 1969.

This Accutron combines Bulova's long-running tradition of watchmaking and its pioneering approach to modern technological solutions, making this the world's first electronic watch. It used a 'tuning fork' electromechanical device: a dual-pronged tuning fork is electronically fired at precisely 360Hz, which then strikes two 'pawls': small jewel fingers to produce rotary movement. Their Swiss-Made line is known today as Bulova Accu-Swiss but was formerly known as Bulova Accutron.

Though revolutionary in its design, Bulova's electromechanical design has now largely been replaced by quartz models (cheaper to produce), but the Accutron holds a fond place in many watch collectors' hearts for its firm stamp in the history of watchmaking. 

Bulova was propelled even further to fame when US Astronaut Dave Scott wore a Bulova aboard Apollo 15 and during his lunar rover outing across the moon's surface. 

The watch has a highly unusual deep blue/slate grey tritium dial (marked T Swiss T) with double-width gold baton markers at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, interspersed with longer, white baton markers. The crown of the watch is original and is also unusual as it’s located at 4 o’clock rather than the customary 3 o’clock this is something of a trade mark design touch with a lot of the early Accutron.

What’s on offer:

The Bulova Accutron is always a favourite at VWS, but we picked this specific one out because of its dial. From afar or up close, the different textures and shades in the blues and whites across the dial really stand out. The slim lume inserts and raised steel hour batons give it a funky, retro feel, and we're yet to hear of or see another Accutron with this exact dial configuration, so we'd count it rare. The piece is in excellent condition and is supplied on an unbranded stainless steel ‘beads of rice’ 5-row bracelet with centre links. While this bracelet complements the watch, you may prefer it to be exchanged for a strap of your choice. Please contact us directly to discuss options should this be the case. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Stainless steel.

Crown: Stainless steel.

Dial: Deep blue/slate grey. 

Crystal: Synthetic glass. 

Bracelet: Unbranded steel ‘beads of rice' bracelet. 

Technical specifications

Winding: Tuning Fork Quartz

Movement Type: Accutron

Calibre: Calibre 2180 F. 

Jewels: 13j

Waterproof: Not tested

Power reserve: n/a

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent overall condition with no notable blemishes. 

Model Reference Number: 704.

Date of issue: 1968

Guarantee

Supplied with a 12-month Vintage Watch Specialist guarantee. 

Dimensions

Width: 34mm.

Lug width: 18mm.

Lug height (lug to lug): 40mm