Bulova Field Watch

Why We Love It

Military issued wristwatches are one of the coolest sub genres in vintage watch collecting, if for no other reason than that they were literally made to kick butts as gracefully as Chuck Norris!

Sometimes, when purchasing military-issued watches, one can require the sale of multiple vital organs, or even soul. But thankfully there are more affordable and less complicated ways to enter into the realm of military watch ownership, such as with this beautiful Bulova Field Watch.

The particular example was supplied to the US military in the 1950s and 60’s. With its diminutive but robust 32mm scratch resistant case, luminous syringe hands, and hallmarks of a life served in the field, it checks all the right boxes. The black dial is adorned with white Arabic numerals that have developed a gorgeous patina. 

For under $1000, its a storied piece that simply can't be beat!

The Story

Bulova produced watches for general purpose use by the US Army, Navy and Air Force (it was too early yet for Space Force...). The inscription “WATCH NAVIG” on the case back signifies that this watch was produced specifically for use by pilots or navigators.

For all Bulova Military watches you can find plenty information engraved on the case back such as  the Serial Number, Federal Stock number and the contract number. A17As such as this example were produced with the MIL-W-6433A specification number which aids in identifying them from being produced starting in 1956.

In October 1962, Bulova submitted the watch for testing on a series of new requirements, and unfortunately, didn’t meet the revised standards. All watches produced from October 1962 are engraved MIL-W-6433B, making this particular example a marvel of a Military watch only issued for 6 years before upgrades were made.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.