Bulova 1944 Military Issue

Submitted by Smiller on
A-15
Manufacture Year
1944
Case Serial No.
AF44-451
Case shape
Round
Case color
White
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Crystal details
32mm
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

A15

Serial No AF44-451

Part No 10AK-CSHE

Order No P. 044-5995E

9-28-24
9-28-24
mybulova_admin
Posted September 30, 2024 - 6:01am

It would be great to see this with the crystal off to show the dial in all its glory.

1944 Bulova Military Issue A-15 I think is the correct model ID.

Smiller
Posted September 30, 2024 - 7:12am

Yes, the crystal is in rough shape as it was thrown out and when found just thrown in with other things.

Do you know if this was a special crystal? I doubt this one can be made to look nice again.

Regards

JimDon5822
Posted September 30, 2024 - 7:53pm

What an awesome watch!  1944 Bulova Military Issue A-15

Geoff Baker
Posted September 30, 2024 - 9:27pm

1944 Bulova A-15 is spot on. 

Smiller
Posted October 1, 2024 - 5:06am

I received the watch in a box of ‘stuff’ from a guy who had a knack for acquiring things others had thrown out. It sat there for a few weeks before I got around to it. My first impression was it was ‘junk’ because of the band. The crystal was dirtier than shown now  and the different dials had me thinking it wasn’t even a watch at first. Luckily, I saw the Bulova name and decided to search the numbers on the back.

I realized this wasn’t an ordinary watch and became excited as U slowly found information on the watch.

I’d like to get it refurbished and I think I’ll keep for now just because it’s so unique and I like things that reflect our history. I realize it is probably quite desirable to Bulova collectors and probably those that collect military watches. I guess my next task is to find someone I can trust to do the work. I know an old watchmaker who works on clocks who mentioned a local who works on high end watches, but I wonder if this watch requires some special knowledge. 

FifthAvenueRes…
Posted October 1, 2024 - 5:38am

I wouldn't touch it. 

There were only 500+/- (no one knows the exact number) of these produced for testing purposes, I've now seen 3.

Awesome. 

 

 

Smiller
Posted October 1, 2024 - 6:50am

It ran for a while Sunday, but I assume it needs a cleaning. The upper stem is stuck.

I wonder what is everyone’s thoughts on just getting it cleaned and running?

FifthAvenueRes…
Posted October 1, 2024 - 10:13am

If You're going to keep it why not and as Stephen says clean or replace the crystal.

If You're going to sell it leave it alone, a serious military colector would go gaga over its' original condition.

I'm drooling a little Myself. 

mybulova_admin
Posted October 1, 2024 - 7:17am

For me, I'd look to replace the crystal as the very least and see of you could find some compentant to get it running again. Again for me a time piece 'needs' to do one thing....tell the time.

I for one am looking forward to seeing the journey of this watch if you choose to restore it. I agree though. minimum touch as much as possibe.