Bulova 1934 Cavalier

Submitted by dkief on
Manufacture Year
1934
Movement Model
-
Movement Serial No.
-
Case Serial No.
- 916177
Case shape
Rectangle
Case color
Two-tone
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Crystal details
-
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

I believe it is a Cavalier model, all original. My Great Grandmother gave it to my Grandpa for his 22nd birthday.  She put an engraving of the presentation date on the band clasp and FROM Mother WVP (william vanPetten)  It still works as well. 

8-21-25 Watch Face
8-21-25 face and band
8-21-25 Clasp Inscription Sept 10, 1934
8-21-25 Back of watch Inscription From Mother WVP
8-21-25 Band close up
JimDon5822
Posted August 21, 2025 - 11:24am

What a gorgeous watch with the original band.   In order to ID this watch we will need a picture of the movement.   Based on the jewel count this could be several different model names.  

dkief
Posted August 21, 2025 - 11:33am

In reply to by JimDon5822

I am unfamiliar with how to safely open the back up. I'm not a watch collector, its a family piece. 

Do I just use a tiny flat head and pry the back off?

neetstuf-4-u
Posted August 21, 2025 - 11:36am

Beautiful heirloom watch, thanks for sharing. You are fortunate to have it!  I will agree, that based on this ad from 1934, the two tone model is indeed a 

1934 Bulova Cavalier  on the original band

cavalier

Like THIS ONE

dkief
Posted August 21, 2025 - 11:46am

In reply to by neetstuf-4-u

Yes, I agree! It is definitely a 2 tone.   I see now it has case ID # 916177.  Thanks for sharing the ad!

neetstuf-4-u
Posted August 21, 2025 - 12:11pm

In reply to by dkief

That (s/n) is a big help, thanks! 6 digit s/n starting with a 9, just like the other 2 confirmed examples in the database.

To open, look on the 6 end of the case back, there should be a little tab. place a thin pocket knife blade or small flat head screwdriver under it and carefully twist it using the spring bar or lugs for leverage. The case should start to separate and will be hinged on the 12 end. See photo of Cavalier opened HERE

If movement isn't loose in the case back, you might be better off letting a jeweler take it out to check jewel count and date code. It's easy to wreck the watch movement or pop off the second hand trying to remove the movement if you are unfamiliar with disassembly.

dkief
Posted August 21, 2025 - 2:09pm

In reply to by neetstuf-4-u

I think I better a jeweler do it. This watch is about to have its 91st bday and if I did something to mess it up I would be so sad ha This watch meant a lot my grandpa. I saw the other example with replaced second so I understand when you say it is easy to wreck the movement etc......I will get to a jeweler when I can and I will update with the info I get from them. 

mybulova_admin
Posted August 21, 2025 - 6:40pm

Certainly looks like a great match for the two-tone version of the Cavalier.

Can you confirm the case serial number? Is it missing the frist number or does in actually start with '9'?

Based on advert and bracelet engraved date a 1934 Bulova Cavalier seems appropriate.

Alex
Posted August 21, 2025 - 7:35pm

A 6-digit number starting with a 9 is indeed from 1934. Let’s also wait for the movement date code to confirm. 

dkief
Posted August 21, 2025 - 8:07pm

I do not see how to post another image, but the watch is very clearly stamped 916177, no dulling or question about it.

JimDon5822
Posted August 21, 2025 - 9:50pm

1934 Bulova Cavalier looks to be a good match.    

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