Bulova 1973 Jet Star

Submitted by GuyMontag on
H
Manufacture Year
1973
Movement Model
11BSACB
Movement Date Code
N3
Movement Jewels
17
Case Serial No.
F44579
Case shape
Oval
Case color
Yellow
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Crystal details
Gilt Tru Seal 305
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

Jet Star 'H', case 3333. This one was a non-runner but cleaned up nicely. I love those oh so '70's brown and orange earth tones. I put it on a rally strap that compliments those dial colors.

Dial
Back
Inside case back
Movement
Kathy L.
Posted January 18, 2024 - 4:22pm

Fantastic watch and great pics.  Looks like a Jet Star "H".  I like the band you put on it.  1973 linebook

1973 linebook

1973 Bulova Jet Star "H"

Markom1-06
Posted February 7, 2024 - 10:08am

In reply to by Kathy L.

Hello ... first-time forum poster here.  I'm a bit of a "newbie" to watch collection and watchmaking, and I recently inherited this exact model Bulova from a family member.  Unfortunately, the crystal is cracked and I want to replace it with the exact same crystal.  I've had difficulty finding replacements, most likely because I'm either looking in the wrong places and looking for the wrong thing.  I hoping to find help on the myBulova.com forum.

My measurements indicate that this is a 2mm thick, 31.5mm diameter acrylic crystal.  Can anyone confirm or correct these measurements?  Also, if this is a common crystal and readily available, where might be a good place to purchase the replacement crystal? Many thanks ... I've enjoyed browsing through the forum and website - much to learn from the members here.

Mark

GuyMontag
Posted February 7, 2024 - 12:59pm

In reply to by Markom1-06

I couldn't find the correct Bulova crystal (1539AY) when I serviced the watch. The Bulova crystal is 30.5 mm(see photo). I was able to fit a 'Gilt Tru Seal 305' that I had on hand and it fits perfectly. Hope that helps.







1539AW but was able to

Markom1-06
Posted February 7, 2024 - 8:19pm

In reply to by GuyMontag

Thanks for the quick response, GuyMontag ... This info will be a huge help, I'm sure.  Thanks again for the detail and response!  I'll let you know how it goes.

Mark

Markom1-06
Posted February 12, 2024 - 1:55pm

In reply to by GuyMontag

 Hello again, GuyMontag ... I located and purchased two of the correct Bulova crystals (1539AY) ... I purchased the extra just in case something went awry.  I have a watch crystal press, but it seems I do not have the correct size nylon die.  I've tried the die that fits the crystal and cannot get the crystal to get seated in the watch case.  Any recollection which size die I should have to do this without cracking the crystal?  Again, many thanks for any insights.

Mark

Markom1-06
Posted February 20, 2024 - 2:20pm

In reply to by GuyMontag

Hello again, GuyMontag ... Still having a bit of trouble getting a new crystal to fit properly; I must be doing something wrong?  In the meantime, did I understand correctly that the version of this watch that you have is a non-worker?  If so, would you be interested in selling it?  I'd be very interested in making you a fair offer for it.  Thanks for your consideration.

Mark

GuyMontag
Posted February 20, 2024 - 5:52pm

In reply to by Markom1-06

That's a bummer about the crystal. I bet if you take it to a watchmaker they could put in in for a reasonable price.



My watch was a non-runner but I serviced it and it runs great now. I'm not looking to sell it at the moment but if I change my mind in the future I will keep you in mind.

Markom1-06
Posted February 20, 2024 - 5:56pm

In reply to by GuyMontag

I'll certainly take your advice, GuyMontag ... hopefully, I can locate a reputable local watchmaker.  I completely understand regarding selling your watch ... it's a beauty for sure.  Thanks again for your time and prompt responses.

Mark

GuyMontag
Posted March 8, 2024 - 8:51pm

In reply to by Markom1-06

I was working on another Bulova with a NOS armored crystal and could not get it to seat. The original crystal would seat no problem but the new one refused to go in after many attempts. It looked like maybe the crystal was ever so slightly too big. I took a 1000 grit buffing stick and lightly went around the outside edge of the crystal. It then went in on the first attempt. Something to maybe try if you still haven't had any luck with your crystal.