Hello, I just purchased this 1968 Bulova Snorkel off of eBay on 2021-01-21. When I was growing up as a kid, a family member had this watch. I always loved the look of it and now, fifty years later I own one. This Snorkel model is not in perfect shape, far from it. I actually like the look of the distressed dial and all its imperfections along with the patina. I know the bracelet is not the original style bracelet for the watch. The crown is not correct, and the crystal needs to be replaced. I have been doing some research on the watch and it’s hard to find the parts diagrams or schematics for the case 386-4 M8 and movement model 11ALACD M5 for purchasing parts needed. I want to purchase the correct crystal and crown. When I get the watch serviced, I will have them replace the crystal and correct crown on the watch. I know there are more than a few experts here on this forum. I would love some of your expertise opinions and knowledge to get this watch back to a stock watch. The things I 100% know about the watch are stated above. If anyone can help me find or direct me to the case and movement parts number catalog, schematics, or diagrams for the watch that would be very helpful! I did some research here on MyBulova.com and the net. I think these following things might be correct but could be wrong? The catalog reference number is 11405-8W and it’s a “Snorkel G”. The replacement crystal number is 386-3AWD or maybe a 386-1AWD, I don’t know? Crown is a 386-3W. I do know the bracelet is not the original bracelet that was stock when it was purchased. I am looking for the original bracelet that was on the watch when it was sold in 68. I think it was made by JB Champion. Would anyone know the bracelet name or product code? I have seen the Bulova catalog photos but no numbers for the bracelet are on it.Thank you for looking and thanks in advance for any help!
Bayrat.
1968 Bulova Snorkel "G" is a good match. There is a guy on ebay selling NOS Bulova dials. You might want to see if you can find a new dial but if you are fine with the the one you have then that is good too. The only advice on the bracelet is to keep looking on ebay. One is bound to show up sooner or later.
Thank for the responses! I have the watch in hand and its nicer than expected. It’s a lot cleaner than the photos were showing and that’s a good thing. The crystal is brand new! I don’t think it is the correct crystal because it’s not a Calendial with a magnifier over the date? Did this snorkel come without the Calendia crystal in 1968 also? The dial is much nicer in person and can live with the dial in this condition, I love the patina. The bracelet fits my wrist but its snug. I am patient and will keep an eye out for a JB Champion Stainless-Steel Brick/Bullet Link with clasp, if its reasonable I will grab it. In the meantime, I will live with what I have for now.
I know vintage watch sizes are smaller than todays watches but still shocked at how small the watch is! Not knocking it, I still love it! If they did a reissue of this watch and beefed it up to, say the size of a Bulova Accutron Spaceview 2020 watch in the 42mm-45mm or even a 40mm, I would be the first in line with credit card in hand!
Questions to the experts or watchmakers:
The crystal Calendial for case 386-4 is “386-3AWD”. Will a “386-1AWD” crystal for the 386-4 case?
Is there another crystal Calendial that will fit this watch and if so what make and part number?
Besides eBay, where can I find a JB Champion Stainless-Steel Brick/Bullet Link with clasp?
Your expertise is appreciated, where else would I go for Bulova help? Thank you in advance!