Bulova 666 Diver

We’ve joined forces with our friends at 10:25 Vintage, a New York-based operation with a shared enthusiasm for interesting vintage timepieces, to bring you a robust handpicked collection that is both exceptional and affordable. Perfect for the discerning collector on a budget, these pieces provide an excellent entry point to the joys of vintage watches.

Let’s be straight here - we feel like Bulova doesn’t get enough credit.

Before the quartz era, Bulova had a reputation like no other. Obsessed with precision, Bulova went above and beyond; they built their own observatories to determine universal time and developed the concept of interchangeable parts to watchmaking. They were also responsible for the Accutron, the worlds first electronic movement, the same movement powered that every other device for NASA's Apollo missions outside the wrist-worn Omega Speedmasters.

Even Bulova's advertising was innovative. In 1926, they produced the first radio ad and went on to run the first television commercial in 1941. For decades, America truly ran on Bulova time.

Their spotless reputation extended to tool watches, where they produced tough-as-nails pieces for military and civilians alike, including the legendary A-11 and A-17 pilot’s watches in the 40’s and 50’s, and a line of fun and functional chronographs dive watches in the 60’s and 70’s. These models, including the Snorkel and Oceanographer, combined good looks, rugged movements, and Bulova’s cheeky 666 foot depth rating into one badass package.

Bulova has started to get some attention among budget-conscious collectors, and pieces such as this one provide a glimpse into why. With a nicely-sized 37mm cushion case in original condition, this piece feels right at home on the modern wrist. The black dial is both legible and interesting owing to its outer chapter ring and bold luminous hour markers, and a day-date window at 3:00. 

Everyone should have a watch that they can enjoy any day of the week, and whether desk diving at the office or weekend adventuring, this 1970s diver has it all.