Bulova 1923 153

Submitted by oldmonk on July 5, 2021 - 6:35pm
Manufacture Year
1923
Movement Model
10AI
Movement Jewels
16
Movement Serial No.
100274
Case Serial No.
1334958
Case shape
Octagonal
Case color
White
Case Manufacturer
American Standard
Gender
Ladies
Watch Description

I got this watch at a local estate sale. It works after a light service. I could not identify the movement date code and am really interested in the year and model of this fascinating watch. Having gone through some of the ads you have on this wonderful resource website, I think it is Model 154 from the 1925 ad but this watch does not have the sapphire crown (It is flat). I am an amateur watch collector / enthusiast.

Closeup of front
Closeup of back
Movement
Inner case with inscriptions
mybulova_admin
Posted July 5, 2021 - 7:42pm

You have a very nice example of a 1923 Bulova '153'

In this instance the second number '3' in the case serial number is the year indicator.

Also interesting to note that the adverts usually show many of these watches as having an 18Kt Gold Filled case, when most times they are actually19Kt as with this example.

Alex
Posted July 5, 2021 - 8:31pm

A 1923 153. Nice watch!

oldmonk
Posted July 6, 2021 - 7:39am

Thank you Admin and Alex. This is most useful.

neetstuf-4-u
Posted July 6, 2021 - 9:08am

1923 "153" it is, nice one!

oldmonk
Posted July 7, 2021 - 9:56am

Thanks neetsuf-4-u.

 

Another quick question. Any idea what the 25 Years on the case signifies? Didnt Bulova start well before that (1875 if I am not mistaken)

Also, I have a beautiful 1937 solid gold men's watch that I bought fully restored several years ago. Will put that up for your insights as well. You guys are fantastic!!!

neetstuf-4-u
Posted July 7, 2021 - 10:17am

In reply to by oldmonk

The 10, 15 or 25 years stamping is an outdated "American Standard Case Co." reference to the thickness of the gold plate and how long it will last. A guarantee/warranty of sorts. Regarding the crown; The jeweled crowns were prone to chip and expose a sharp edge. It's most likely the original was damaged and replaced with the flat style, which would have been a more cost effective fix, especially during the great depression. We look forward to seeing your other "Bully". :o)