Bulova - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

Bulova is an American watch brand founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, a Czech immigrant living in New York. Since its creation, the brand has stood out for its spirit of innovation, precision and commitment to quality. Over the decades, Bulova has made watchmaking history with many firsts and continues to influence the industry with iconic designs and advanced technologies.

Bulova's Beginnings

In 1875, Joseph Bulova opened a small jewelry store on Maiden Lane, New York, specializing in the sale of watches and jewelry. A visionary, he quickly understood the importance of standardization and mass production to meet growing demand. In 1912, he inaugurated a factory dedicated to the manufacture of watches in Bienne, Switzerland, thus laying the foundations for high-quality watch production.

Pioneer of Advertising

Bulova is also recognized for its innovative approach to marketing. In 1926, the brand broadcast the first radio advertisement, announcing: "At the tone, it's 8 PM, Bulova Watch Time". This bold initiative was followed in 1941 by the very first television commercial, broadcast before a baseball game between the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. These advertising strategies have largely contributed to establishing brand awareness in the United States.

The Accutron Era

One of Bulova's most significant contributions to watchmaking is the launch of the Bulova Accutron in 1960. This revolutionary model was the first electronic tuning fork watch, offering unequaled precision for the time. Thanks to its innovative mechanism, the Accutron is quickly becoming the preferred choice for applications requiring extreme accuracy, notably in NASA space programs. This technology has also been integrated into aircraft and spacecraft instrumentation, demonstrating Bulova's reliability and technological advancement.

Engagement in Space Exploration

Bulova has played a notable role in the history of space exploration. During the Apollo 15 mission in 1971, astronaut David Scott wore a Bulova chronograph during his extravehicular activities on the Moon. This watch, specially designed to withstand the extreme conditions of space, is today known as the Bulova Lunar Pilot. In 2016, the brand re-released this iconic model, combining the original design with modern technologies for fans of watchmaking and space history.

Technological Innovations

Beyond the Accutron, Bulova has constantly innovated to improve the precision and performance of its watches. In 2010, the brand introduced the Accutron Precisionist, a quartz watch with a crystal vibrating at a frequency of 262 kHz, eight times more than traditional quartz movements. This innovation allows exceptional precision, with a variation of only a few seconds per year, and offers a second hand with fluid movement, imitating the sweep of high-end mechanical watches.

Iconic Designs

Bulova is also recognized for its distinctive designs that combine aesthetics and functionality.

Among the emblematic models, we find the Bulova Computron, launched in 1976, characterized by its digital LED display and futuristic trapezoidal housing. This model was re-released in 2019, testament to its timeless appeal. Additionally, the collection Frank Sinatra, introduced as a tribute to the legendary singer of Fly Me To The Moon, reflects the classic style and elegance associated with the artist, with designs named after his famous songs.

Acquisition by Citizen

In 2008, Bulova was acquired by the Japanese group Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. This strategic union allows Bulova to benefit from the technological advances and resources of Citizen, while retaining its American identity and its heritage rich in innovations. Together, the two brands continue to develop watches that combine tradition and modernity, meeting the expectations of consumers around the world.

Commitment to Quality and Precision

Since its inception, Bulova has been committed to offering high quality watches, combining precision and durability. The brand has implemented strict manufacturing and quality control standards, ensuring that each piece meets high consumer expectations. This commitment to excellence has allowed Bulova to maintain its reputation and build a loyal global customer base.

Conclusion

With more than 145 years of history, Bulova continues to distinguish itself with its spirit of innovation, its commitment to precision and its lasting influence in the world of watchmaking. From its humble beginnings in New York, to its pioneering role in space exploration, to its significant contributions to technological advancements in watchmaking, Bulova remains an iconic brand that combines tradition and modernity, meeting the needs of watch enthusiasts around the world.

(Updated February 2025)