In reply to I just wanted to do a quick by FortyCaliber
Hi Tony - Great to hear the it's on Mike's workbench, I've found that to be a really safe place for my watches too.
Variant refers to a sub category of a particular model. Bulova made the mid-fifties "23" model in over a dozen different styles. They matches several different case styles with several different metal compounds (rolled gold, solid gold and stainless steel) along with three or four different dial styles (ribbed, shaded, etc). Each watch was designated as a "23" model along with a series of letters to denote the the different variation.
The band / strap dilemma can be a simple as what you prefer. If you plan to wear it like dad did, you choose the mount that suits you the best.