This was my father's watch. I don't ever remember seeing him wear it but it was in his jewelry box for years. He's been gone 30 years now and I'd really like to learn more about the specific model and see if it makes sense to have it cleaned and tuned up. It still runs when wound but could use some cosmetic work. (Yup, he super-glued the crystal in place once upon a time.) Appreciate any help!
Congratulations on a keepsake from your father. I sent a not through our in-mail system about restoration.
I think Jaroslav is right, it does match to the Ruxton A (like this one) except for the black dial, perhaps it was refinished at some point. I would categorize this a s Ruxtion with replacement dial. I note L3 date code on the movement but cannot make out the date code on the case back, is it L4?
1954 Bulova Ruxton A
Yes, it says L4 on the case back. I don't believe the dial would have ever been refinished; that's not something my dad would have done. The corners of the dial had some wear and I think he probably touched them up with a black Sharpie at some point, but that's the extent of "fixing" he'd go to. Googling "Bulova Ruxton" yields at least one other black faced example so I guess this isn't a unique piece, but I've really enjoyed digging into the history of his watch. Thanks to you all for your help!
I am very curious about the writing scratched on the inside of the case back. That would not have been my father either (I know this because his writing was chicken scratch and you can actually read this). Would this have been done at a watch dealer? There are several numbers and what appears to be initials perhaps in the top left. Maybe we've finally found the combination to the safe that holds the family jewels...now we just have to find the safe.
In reply to I am very curious about the by hardebeck
Jason, the marks were made by the watchmakers who have serviced the watch in the past. Each watchmaker has his/her (secret?) code that will reveal what they've done in the past if the watch should happen show up on their bench again in the future.
If you do ever find the safe, you should still try the code!
In light of the recent addition and identification of the Moonbeam model, I think this watch should be reevaluated as a possible Moonbeam as well.
