This is an odd one. The serial numbering does not match any of the serial numbering or date codes that I can find online. The back is simply stamped "Bulova" and the number 7819181. I tried carefully removing the back to check the movement, but I lack the proper tools and it was being stubborn, so I stopped trying to remove it before I damaged it. Unfortunately, I do not have the original paperwork with it. I searched extensively online and could not find an exact match for this watch. The closest I could find is a Minuteman. This watch has been in my family for decades and I am very curious what model it is. It still works and keeps time, so I might start wearing it.
Hi GalStone and welcome to mybulova. Your heirloom watch looks to be in super nice condition. The pronounced groove around the crown usually indicates very little wear from daily winding. This watch is right on the line between serial number dating and date codes. The serial number starting with a "7" indicates a date of 1947. Seeing the movement code would verify.
1947 Bulova Senator "E"
This ad is dated 1949
I really like that band. Not original but really sets the watch off.
This ad from 1944. Both ID this model in yellow gold plate as Senator "E".
Thanks for the quick ID. I was way off on that one - my 1938 Minuteman is actually a 1947 Senator. :)
My family always had Bulova watches and this is one of two that ended up in my possession. The other is a early ladies watch that belonged to my mother - I will try to get that one identified next. Both watches have not been worn for at least 30-40 years and they have sat in a safe all of this time - that likely explains their good condition and lack of heavy wear.
The band is nice, but it has an issue - one of the links is loose.
Thanks again, this site is a lifesaver for ID'ing these old Bulovas.
In reply to Thanks for the quick ID. I… by GalStone
How wonderful to have two heirloom watches! Like this one https://mybulova.com/watches/1943-senator-10570
1947 Bulova Senator "E"
Unlike my mother's 1960 SVP II, I don't know who owned this watch or why my mother kept it. I can only guess that it might have been one of my grandfather's watches, based on the year it was made and the style. After some serious consideration, I am thinking about offering this watch for sale. I tried wearing it for a while, but it's just not my style - I can't pull off the look. I hate the idea that this watch will gather dust in an old cigar box and I would like to see it worn by someone who would appreciate it. How would I go about offering it for sale on this site? I saw a checkbox on the initial form to submit this watch to the database, but now I can't find a link. Thanks!