Men’s 1935 Bulova Watch with Stepped Case

The Bulova Watch Company, founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, quickly became one of the most prominent watchmakers in the United States by producing timepieces that masterfully blended style and function. Bulova’s attention to both artistry and reliability solidified its position in horological history.

By 1919, Bulova launched its first line of wristwatches, designed specifically for men. These watches were marketed as a perfect combination of style and practicality, capitalizing on the shift from pocket watches to wristwatches as the modern man's essential accessory. One year later, Bulova set another milestone by establishing the world's first corporate observatory, atop a skyscraper in New York City, ensuring their timepieces were set with unparalleled precision through celestial timekeeping.

In 1926, Bulova once again made history by broadcasting the world's first radio commercial, announcing, "At the tone, it's 8 o'clock, Bulova Watch Time." Five years later, the company marked yet another milestone with the first television commercial ever aired, featuring a simple yet striking image of a Bulova watch over a map of the United States with the slogan, "America runs on Bulova time."

As the years passed, Bulova continued to embed itself in popular culture, with its watches appearing in Hollywood films and being endorsed by celebrities, securing its place as an iconic and desirable accessory throughout the 20th century.

Rare examples like this 1930s Bulova dress wristwatch captivate those with an eye for style and history. With an increasing demand for original, clean examples of horological art, finding such pristine pieces has become a rarer delight.

There are a few key characteristics collectors seek in a classic Deco wristwatch: a case with clean, intriguing lines, a mesmeric dial with stylized Arabic numerals, and a Deco look — perhaps even one with an Aztec flair. Like any other form of art — be it painting or cooking — the elements must combine in just the right way to create a piece that is visually stunning and dependable.

This completely original Bulova 1930s dress wristwatch effortlessly showcases the finest aspects of the Deco movement. Its original pearlescent dial and gold applied Arabic numerals speak to the sophistication of its era, while the sub-seconds register pays homage to earlier watchmaking traditions. The stepped lugs and rectangular gold-filled bezel capture the transition from Art Deco and German Minimalism to the dripping luxury of pure Deco design.

When you snap open the pristine case back, you'll discover the heart of this timepiece: a fully restored 15-jewel 10BC movement, the pride of Bulova's watchmaking heritage. Measuring 41mm long by 25mm wide, this remarkably preserved piece of horological history — offered in a Bulova factory Bakelite presentation box — is ready to be worn and admired by someone with exceptional taste and an appreciation for true craftsmanship.