The watch still runs perfectly on time. The wrist band appears to be the original with black leather inserts on the first 9 links on both sides and stamped Japan Pat. #2515817. Per several ads I found, the watch is yellow rolled gold plate with a stainless steel back Model 113Y Neptune. L3 and serial number 5733993 are stamped on the back. Is there anyway to determine where this watch was purchased by the serial number. I am trying to find out if my Father purchased this watch or possibly was given to him as a gift by Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. Per two certified jewelers I visited today, April 21st, the face is brass and speckled effect is rust. The crystal is acrylic round dome and suggested having it buffed and polished rather than replaced. Replacement may not even be available and could be costly. Both hesitant to remove back to check for other numbers and believed the back appeared to have never been opened. Employees at both stores said they wouldn't clean it if the watch was theirs. All liked the unique style, antique look of the gold plating and the speckled effect on the face. Was told it is in very good condition for being 60 years old, very rare and valuable. Found pictures of my Father wearing this watch from the '50's and 60's with the gold band as shown in the ads. But pictures from beginning the early 70's with the band as shown in the pictures I have posted. Have determined this was a farewell gift from the Goodyear Tire Store employees in Canton, Oh when he was transferred back to Cleveland, Oh. When my Father passed away in 1994, my brother got this watch and was given to me when he recently passed away. This watch has traveled to several cities in Ohio, Jackson, MI, Chicago, IL, Newport Richey, FL, Winston-Salem, NC, Union City, TN and now back in Chicago, Il. Someday it will belong to one of my 5 grandson to further add history and travels.
1953 Farragut from me.
The Neptune model appears in the "new models / updated prices" section of the Nov 1954 Price Guide Supplement, suggesting Neptune in newly released late 1954 (left below). The Farragut is not in Nov Supplement, suggesting its not new in late 1954. In the Spring (January) 1955 Price List, the Farragut appears in the cumulative watch section (right below), as does the Neptune (not pictured right below). Slightly different Bulova model numbers: Farragut (111), Neptune (113). So there's something more to the difference than "the Farragut became the Neptune in 1954...". May be a subtle difference in the dials?
Nov 1954 price list supplement. Spring (January) 1955 price list snippet.