An early platinum Bulova as seen in the advert of 1924 with model number 5892. As you can see, my model has an inner minute indicator, which in the advert is not there. However, I have seen on internet more pictures of this model and we all share the same dial. So, maybe Bulova changed its mind how the dial should look like after the drawing was made for the advert? Another surprise when I received the watch: unfortunately it has a Hamilton 721 movement. The disadvantage of buying it off internet! I will pursue to find out what the original movement should be, so I can retrofit it back to its original state. Any info is welcome to help identify the correct movement. Other than that, another beautiful platinum Bulova, unfortunately identified by a number, hence I herewith baptize her "Agatha". A name that, until now, is not existing in the database. The size is 14mm wide and 30mm long.
EDIT 1: a watch from this time wold have a 5P 17 jewel. I finally found one and replaced the Hamilton movement for an original 5P!
Beautiful watch and a very highend one for that period. Not many would have been made I'd imagine. It's a shame about the movement and I really do hope you're able to find an original. Possibility a 6P or 5P.
Normally we would ID this as Non-Conforming, but as long as it is clearly mentioned that the movement is incorrect and to be replaced then I'm happy for it to be added to the database with its correct model reference number as i believe it serves a better purpose.
Thanks for adding such a wonderful watch.
It was indeed a very nasty surprise when I opened the case and found the Hamilton movement. It was not me tioned in the listing. Being a collector, you can understand my disappointment. But the case that is in excellent state deserves to get it's original movement back. Thanks for listing it!
Lovely "Agatha" :) The case sure looks to match the ad for "5892". A Bulova contract case, without Bulova or any other case manufacture hallmarks.
For now, by our working definition, it can't even be ID'ed as "Non-Conforming" because of non-Bulova movement. We would be ID'ing just the case. ...but IMO we should not delet this great watch record.
When Alex finds an appropriate movement, I'd go with "5892" for model ID. Until then, what do we call it in the mean time?
Very nice watch, amazing condition. The crown alone is a work of art. I like the (white gold?) braided cord, it really does the watch justice. I also like the fact that, like at mine, all 'Unknown' watches have a name at your house.
I'm comfortable tagging it as a 5892 right away, to Stephen's point, the mvnt swap is noted.