Pre-Owned Bulova Oceanographer 'Devil Diver' 40991121/AS07570

WHY WE LOVE IT

If the proliferation of vintage-inspired watches in recent years is any indication, then tastes in watches are changing — and the market is changing with it. In our minds, as vintage watch sellers and enthusiasts, this is ultimately a change for the better. There are certain brands who do them well, remaining true to the spirit of the originals upon which the reissues were based, showing a keen understanding of what makes collectors like us tick.

Bulova is one of them.

The brand certainly has a rich tradition to draw from, reaching as far back as its establishment in 1912. Founder Joseph Bulova possessed a passion for precision, which has carried through to the present day. More than that, the looks of the watches that Bulova has produced over that century equal the technical precision with which they were crafted.

Several years ago, we joined forces with Bulova to hold a vote for what that next watch would be. The choices were all strong in their own way: a Bull-Head Chronograph from 1970, a 1970 Chronograph A “Surf Board,” and the Oceanographer, or “Devil Diver.” Collectors from all over the globe participated in the vote, but the “Devil Diver” was the clear choice. 

This watch is faithful to the original down to the smallest detail. Its classic cushion case measures 40mm in diameter, is water resistant to 20ATM and the original color-scheme of the dial — a vibrant orange — is brought back. Moreover, thirty watches of this limited run of 666 (for the original’s 666-foot depth rating) were fitted with a special casebook featuring the Analog/Shift logo, were offered with an 18mm bracelet — in this case, unworn — and an exclusive Analog/Shift black and orange nylon strap. Most important of all, the watch is powered by a mechanical movement: Bulova’s Automatic SW-220-1 AIG5 calibre. This particular example shows little handling wear throughout, and even features its original case back sticker and much of its ephemera.

Held side-by-side with the original, we’re hard-pressed to find any differences, and it’s this faithfulness that makes us proud to put our logo on it — and to wear it. 

We’re sure you will be, too.

OVERALL CONDITION

The case is in outstanding, as-new condition overall showing only faint signs of wear from careful handling. Luminous orange dial with applied 'crystal' indices is in as-new condition with matching handset. Signed crown.