Overview
This is a genuinely fascinating piece of horological transition-era history: a vintage Bulova quartz watch from the late 1970s, produced during the exact period when traditional mechanical watchmaking was being overtaken by the quartz revolution.

Unlike later mass-produced quartz watches that feel disposable, this one still carries the weight and build quality of a “proper” watch. The case has strong presence on the wrist, measuring approximately 11mm thick, and the movement itself is far more interesting than most people expect when they hear the word quartz. Inside is the Bulova Cal. 242, an early-generation quartz movement using a stepper motor system. That means you still get a real mechanical gear train driving traditional hands, but powered by quartz regulation for stability and accuracy. It’s the best of both worlds: old-school construction with futuristic (for the time) technology.

One of the coolest features of this watch is the rare Accuset function, operated by the additional recessed pusher at approximately 4 o’clock. This was Bulova’s answer to precise time synchronisation long before GPS, smartphones, or radio-controlled watches existed. Accuset allows you to accurately align the seconds hand to a time reference signal, which was a genuinely advanced feature for the era and is a huge part of what makes these early Bulova quartz watches so collectible.

To use the Accuset function, pull the crown out to set the time as normal, then use the pusher at 4 o’clock to precisely synchronise the seconds hand to your reference time source. It’s a brilliant feature from a time when quartz technology was still considered cutting-edge and premium.

Even better, this example has a particularly satisfying trait: the seconds hand lands cleanly and accurately on the markers, which is something many quartz watches (even modern ones) often fail to do due to tolerance issues or gear slack. It’s a small detail, but it says a lot about the quality of the movement and the precision of the build.

Despite being a vintage piece, the watch wears extremely well thanks to its compact proportions. It measures approximately 34mm excluding the crown, 35mm including the crown guard, and 36.5mm including the crown, with a lug-to-lug length of approximately 38mm. It has that classic 1970s fit where it sits neatly on the wrist without feeling oversized.

The watch features a day and date complication, with quickset adjustment for the day. The date changes correctly as the hands pass midnight, as it should.

Overall, this watch perfectly captures the optimism and innovation of the late 1970s. It’s the kind of piece that feels like a snapshot of an industry in motion, where brands like Bulova were racing to evolve and stay ahead. If you enjoy unusual movements, quirky vintage features, and watches that tell a story beyond just the dial, this is an extremely cool watch to own.

What’s Included
Watch only on stainless steel bracelet. 

Condition
Used vintage condition with signs of wear consistent with age. Please review the photos carefully as they form an important part of the description. The watch presents very well overall and wears nicely on the wrist. The watch is running and the seconds hand aligns cleanly with the markers.

Specifications
Brand: Bulova
Era: Likely late 1970s (quartz transition period)
Movement: Bulova Quartz Cal. 242 (stepper motor quartz)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Thickness: Approx. 11mm
Case Size: 34mm excluding crown, 35mm including crown guard, 36.5mm including crown
Lug to Lug: Approx. 38mm
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day/date
Special Feature: Accuset pusher at 4 o’clock for precise seconds synchronisation

Disclaimer
I am dedicated to providing accurate descriptions and clear photographs to represent the condition and features of each item. Please carefully examine the photos as they are an integral part of the description. Rest assured, all items are sold as described and depicted in the listing. Should you have any questions or require additional photo/video content, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am committed to delivering the best customer experience possible, as evidenced by the positive feedback from previous buyers.