I could have sworn I uploaded this one a long time ago but nope.
It is obviously a Bulova 23, but it has the undulating bezel design of a 'B,' with the dial of an 'R' that we have in the db. Quite possibly a dial swap, as this is the '6 adjustments' Bulova 23, but lacking the distinctive 'Sunray' dial we so often see on these models. In addition, the logo and script on the dial seems utilitarian, almost military like. Not sure what the story is here. If this is a re-dial it is an old one, as there are Radium burns on it. The case back is marked 'L6,' but it is hard to make out. The movt itself is also 'L6.' I haven't serviced this one yet, so it may be that there is more to be gleaned once the dial is off.
Interesting. My gut feeling is that it's a replacement dial, based on the fact it doesn't appear up to Bulova quality standards of the time. I'm thinking either a non-Bulova replacement dial or a refinished dial from another watch.
Sorry Rob, I have to go
1956 Non-conforming.
(but it's obviously made for walkin') :o)
If the hands are original, then it may have been the black dial 'A', which was luminous; the white dial 'B' was not luminous, I think.
Anyway, Bulova 23 case.
I agree with Ken, the case is very much a match for the Bulova 23 "B" (white dial) and "A" (black dial).
Either a dial clean gone wrong or a very average redial applied.
I'd be Bulova '23' noting the non-conforming dial.
I will go along with generic "23" noting non-conforming dial based on the "stand alone" case style.
1956 Bulova 23 w/ non-conforming dial
1956 Bulova 23 it is then!
Looking at the close ups, I should clarify- there is no 'If' this is a re-dial, it clearly is. It's things like this that make me wonder what the story of the watch is. That dial has been on there a long time, maybe Mr 'Boots' had it re-done for some reason? For all its lack of sophistication, it is visibly clear as a bell even from several feet away. I think I may try and source the proper dial for this one.
The almost logo-like nature of the engraving also makes me wonder if it is a reference to 'Boots Drugstores.'
In reply to Looking at the close ups, I… by Reverend Rob
My first thought was Nancy Sinatra (sorry, old guy humor reference.....)