I believe your watch looks like a 1934 Bulova Kirkwood, like this one https://www.mybulova.com/watches/1934-kirkwood-6651?page=1 and like this 1934 ad
Although your watch and this watch are engraved and the ads only show an non-engraved case, it was pretty common in the 30's for a model to come in an engraved and non-engraved case and different dials.
In reply to I believe your watch looks… by Kathy L.
I agree. These models below seem to share the dial with the numbers as well.
In reply to I agree. These models below… by johnrbell
This ad is your watch with the correct dial and band. So your watch is all original. The ad does not have a name unfortunately to confirm Kirkwood but that is still what I am thinking. It was more expensive with the matching link band.
In reply to This ad is your watch with… by Kathy L.
WOW! This is amazing, thank you :)
Well done, gang!
1934 Kirkwood looks to be on the money!
Wow.. great example and to have the original bracelet with it is rare rare! The Kirkwood.
That is an amazing example of an original 1934 Bulova Kirkwood Johnrbell. Is there a story behind it and how you happened to acquire it?
In reply to That is an amazing example… by 1955mercury
My Grandfather passed a few years ago and my Grandmother gave this to my father.
His father, my great grandfather was Hugh Bell, which matches the "HB 2-51" that looks to be scratched inside the case.
According to my dad, if this was his Grandfather's it was most likely won in a card game at a bar, and he scratched his initials and date into it when he got it. He was known for writing his name/initials on everything. 😅
I reached out to my Great Aunt who is still alive. She said:
"Initials could be my fathers, Hugh Bell, also my brother Bud was Hugh Bell. Bud was about 20 at that time in 51, and My brother John 22. No significance to 2-51 that I can think of. Both brothers were in the military at that time."
In reply to My Grandfather passed a few… by johnrbell
Very interesting Johnrbell. I love the knowing the history and stories behind these great watches. They're just as interesting as the watches.
You should write a note with that on it and store it with the watch. One day that story will be forgotten.
In reply to Very interesting Johnrbell… by 1955mercury
I like this idea. I think I'll find a case and something to hold it all.
I'd also love to have it appraised, but not sure where in the NJ/NY/PA area I should look.