Bulova Aviator's Field Watch

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SKU AS03913
Article Number 40990045
SKU AS03913
Article Number 40990045

Why We Love it

Why We Love It

Military issued wristwatches quite simply one of the coolest sub genres in vintage watch collecting - these were purpose-built timepieces that were designed to accompany soldiers, sailors and airmen in the rigors of service on and off the battlefield, and each and every one has serious provenance - even if we don't know its unique story.

The purchase of some military issued timepieces one sometimes require the sale of multiple vital organs, 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 model, a Reference A17A, was supplied to US military aviators in the 1950s and 60s. With its diminutive but robust 32mm corrosion resistant steel case, luminous syringe hands, and a stunning patina showing hallmarks of a life served in the field, it checks all the right boxes for style and story. 


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.

A:S Guarantee

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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.

Shipping & Returns

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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.

Bulova Aviator's Field Watch

Bulova Aviator's Field Watch

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Bulova Aviator's Field Watch

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