What is the history and significance of the Bulova Accutron watch?

Introduced in 1960, the Bulova Accutron was the worlds first fully electronic wristwatch, replacing the traditional balance wheel mechanism with a micro-sized tuning fork for unprecedented timekeeping precision.

What materials and components were used in 1960s Bulova Accutron watches?

These timepieces were constructed using gold-plated or stainless steel cases, acrylic crystals, and leather or metallic straps, housing an internal electronic circuit operated by a low-voltage power cell.

How can you verify the authenticity of a 1960s Bulova Accutron?

Authentic models feature the signature tuning fork emblem on the dial or crown, period-correct movement markings, case back date codes, and the distinctive operational hum produced by the tuning fork.

How can a vintage gold-plated watch be styled with modern attire?

A 35mm dress watch with a warm gold-tone case and brown leather strap complements tailored suits, formal evening wear, or refined smart-casual attire without adding excess bulk to the wrist.

How should a vintage electronic watch be preserved and maintained?

Keep the timepiece stored in a dry environment, remove the battery during extended non-use to prevent corrosive leaks, and protect the movement from moisture and strong magnetic interference.

for sale €644 $699

£550

Chase Hattan Watches

Sellingantiques Verified Since Feb 2025

View Dealers Stock Page

About Us

Specialists in vintage, military and luxury watches

Relevant Links

Classic Mens Watch

1960s Gold Wristwatch

Id #SA1222670

PDF

SAVE

Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Name: Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1222670
Price: 550 GBP
Availability: InStock

1940 - 1960

For Sale by Chase Hattan Watches

Description

Bulova Accutron – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Practically new old stock, this beautifully preserved Bulova Accutron is a wonderful example of one of the most innovative watches of its era. Dated to 1960 by serial number, it remains in very good condition throughout and is supplied with both its original brown leather strap and original presentation box.

The warm brown tones of the dial give this watch a luxurious and distinctly dressy appearance, making it a standout vintage piece that feels every bit as stylish today as it would have done over 60 years ago.

Key Details

• Model: Bulova Accutron

• Year: 1960 (dated by serial number)

• Case Size: 35mm

• Case Material: Gold plated

• Dial: Silvery brown

• Hour Markers: Gold baton markers

• Hands: Gold tone

• Crystal: Acrylic

• Movement: Accutron electronic movement

• Strap: Original brown leather strap

• Water Resistance: Not water resistant due to age

• Guarantee: 12‑month mechanical / electrical guarantee

Condition Report

Case: Very good condition with minimal signs of wear.

Dial: Beautifully preserved silvery brown dial with rich, warm tones.

Hands & Markers: Gold tone and exceptionally well preserved.

Crystal: Clear with only minor age‑related wear.

Strap: Original brown leather strap present.

Box: Original Bulova box included.

Overall: Remarkably well preserved, presenting almost like new old stock.

Working Order

Running perfectly and operating exactly as intended.

All functions working correctly.

Supplied with our 12‑month guarantee.

Our View

The Accutron was one of the most important watch developments of the twentieth century, renowned for its accuracy and innovative technology. This example combines that historic significance with genuinely outstanding condition.

What really sets this watch apart is the dial. The subtle brown metallic tones create a sophisticated, luxurious feel that pairs perfectly with the gold‑plated case and markers. Elegant, dressy and increasingly difficult to find in this condition, it is a superb collector’s piece and a wonderful example of vintage Bulova at its best

What’s Included

Original brown leather strap

Original Bulova box

12‑month mechanical / electrical guarantee

Insured shipping

Physical Dimensions

Height

3.5cm (1.38")

Declaration

Chase Hattan Watches has dated this Vintage Bulova Accutron Watch to the 1960s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1222670

Dealers Internal Reference

chw7190

Dealers Notes

Our in house watchmaker personally inspects every watch & only once a watch meets our high inspection standards is it ready for sale, All watches are sold with a 12 month guarantee.

Free next day UK delivery, fully insured. Worldwide fast shipping.

Description

Bulova Accutron – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

“

Practically new old stock, this beautifully preserved Bulova Accutron is a wonderful example of one of the most innovative watches of its era.

Chase Hattan Watches

Dated to 1960 by serial number, it remains in very good condition throughout and is supplied with both its original brown leather strap and original presentation box.

fig 1. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 1. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

The warm brown tones of the dial give this watch a luxurious and distinctly dressy appearance, making it a standout vintage piece that feels every bit as stylish today as it would have done over 60 years ago.

fig 2. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 2. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Key Details

• Model: Bulova Accutron

• Year: 1960 (dated by serial number)

• Case Size: 35mm

• Case Material: Gold plated

• Dial: Silvery brown

• Hour Markers: Gold baton markers

• Hands: Gold tone

• Crystal: Acrylic

fig 3. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 3. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

• Movement: Accutron electronic movement

• Strap: Original brown leather strap

• Water Resistance: Not water resistant due to age

• Guarantee: 12‑month mechanical / electrical guarantee

Condition Report

Case: Very good condition with minimal signs of wear.

fig 4. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 4. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Dial: Beautifully preserved silvery brown dial with rich, warm tones.

Hands & Markers: Gold tone and exceptionally well preserved.

Crystal: Clear with only minor age‑related wear.

Strap: Original brown leather strap present.

fig 5. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 5. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Box: Original Bulova box included.

Overall: Remarkably well preserved, presenting almost like new old stock.

Working Order

Running perfectly and operating exactly as intended.

All functions working correctly.

fig 6. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 6. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

Supplied with our 12‑month guarantee.

Our View

The Accutron was one of the most important watch developments of the twentieth century, renowned for its accuracy and innovative technology. This example combines that historic significance with genuinely outstanding condition.

fig 7. A 1960s circular gold-plated Bulova Accutron wristwatch with a grey-brown dial, date display, and brown leather strap. — fig 7. Bulova Accutron Wrist Watch – Gold Plated – 35mm – Original Box – 1960

What really sets this watch apart is the dial. The subtle brown metallic tones create a sophisticated, luxurious feel that pairs perfectly with the gold‑plated case and markers. Elegant, dressy and increasingly difficult to find in this condition, it is a superb collector’s piece and a wonderful example of vintage Bulova at its best

What’s Included

Original brown leather strap

Original Bulova box

12‑month mechanical / electrical guarantee

Insured shipping

Physical Dimensions

Height

3.5cm (1.38")

Date of Manufacture

Chase Hattan Watches has dated this Vintage Bulova Accutron Watch to the 1960s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Ref