I found this watch at an antique store for $20.00. Gold case, with remnents of what seems like the original gold band still affixed. Based on what I saw looking through the ad's I think it may be a 1957 Commodore. It is also the first "two-piece" stem I have tackled. It is a front loader and removing the front pieces was easy but getting the stem out was tricky. I tried all the techniques I've read here including turning it upside down but what eventually worked was using an old presto hands remover and giving it a good yank. At first I thought I broke it but as I inspected it closer it came apart as designed. The good - I think the case, dial and hands will clean up well. The balance was also lively and appears to be in good condition. The bad - I read somewhere that this particulary movement employs some sort of "Indirect Sweep 2nd hand gear on a long pinion which is held in place by the spring strap in the center of the movement? As a novice, I'm a little nervous about it but we shall see. The ugly - It was apparent why the stem was so difficult to deal with. The male part attached to the crown is terribly rusted. I don't know if it can be salvaged or if I need to find an entirely new stem. If so, any ideas where to find one? I appreciate your opinions and analysis and also the time you guys put into helping an old novice like me identify these old bulova's. :-)
In reply to Panel - any more thoughts on by Geoff Baker