Hi All,
The collection is starting to grow. I was recently at an antique store and saw this little gem in the case. The watches owner was also at the store and informed me that this watch didn't work and that he would give it to me for $20.00.
I asked him what he thought might be wrong with the watch and he informed me that it just didn't run. He also informed me that he tried a 394 battery. OK now i'm curious! So I buy the watch. I immediately went to my jeweler and she checked it over, informing me that the inside case showed servicing about 2 years ago. She put in the correct 344 battery, gave it a tap and it's been running ever since with about a + - 2sec a day accuracy.
The 344 is the recommended replacement but one or two other sizes will work. Ah, the secret "tap"! I have bought several Accutrons that only needed a fresh battery and that little "tap" on the side of the case.
The 219 caliber has often been maligned by the purists for being cheaply made and low grade but it is still a true Accutron. Yes, Bulova did reduce the production cost of this caliber by simplifying it but it is still a dependable movement. I have a few in my collection and all perform fautlessly.