1957 Bulova Unknown, 17J 8AC movement with a very unusual date code...L2 factory stamped and L7 hand stamped, so I don't know what was going on there. It has a 10K RGP bezel and caseback that is stamped L7. The case measures 21.3mm wide and 36.9mm lug to lug. The Black Diamond Dial (Diamonds tested real) has raised Gold markers and Gold Dauphine hands, a new GS crystal has been installed and it has been fitted with a nice Gold & Black expansion band. I have seen this model pictured here, but its not in the database under unknown or known models, so its in the forms someplace. Very nice looking and running watch, might have to wear it a few times this year...
Lisa,
The ad was submitted to the site and was in the database. I just double checked and it has since vanished.... The blurred 1959 ad can be quite useful, after a couple of drinks, in the correct light and by squinting.
The L2 / L7 stamp on the Movement is interesting. Trade in program Watch?
I have to admit that OT's watch seems a bit of a hodgepodge, albeit a good looking one.
The inconsistent dates, atypical dial, and jewel count that doesn't jive with my two examples or the ad (I'm pretty sure that ad reads twenty-something jewels and shows this model), do seem to point to a cobble job. It's all Bulova, but likely not all original or intended to go together. That's just my opinion; other's may differ.
Fifth, I will definitely try out your ad deciphering method. Sounds fun and may result in completely new revelations. I'm assuming the "correct light" would be "dimmed".
In reply to Or maybe you need to dim the by NOVA
I don't know what to think on this one Ladies & Gents, I bought it here locally at a estate auction, and it wasn't someone that was into collecting or working on watches...so how he acquired it and the weird double date stamp has me scratching my head.
I too remember seeing the ad with this watch case in the ad database, but its not there anymore...dam ghosts...