Bulova 1978 Model

Submitted by Ruggero Melis on January 17, 2021 - 5:39pm
12541-9Y
Manufacture Year
1978
Case Serial No.
5-464150
Case shape
Cushion
Case color
Yellow
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Watch Description

This was my father's watch. He received as a gift when he left the bank he was working for in 1979, so my guess form the form is that this must be a '78/'79 model, but I could be wrong. The back of the case doesn't seem to coincide with most of the watches on this website, but the "5-..." format is listed here so I'm wondering what it signifies. I really hope you can help me identify it, I'd be really grateful, as it has great sentimental value for me. 

Bulova automatic FRONT
Bulova automatic BACK
neetstuf-4-u
Posted January 17, 2021 - 6:57pm

Welcome to mybulova. Heirloom watches are the best, what a great keepsake for you! Watches in the late 70's were more often than not just given a number, not a name. At some point, if you are able; a photo of the movement and inside of the case back would be beneficial. That is where the Bulova signature and dates codes would be. Usually, Bulovas are signature case marked on the back, if this is a watch produced in Europe, maybe not.

Based on appearance only, and a "shot in the dark", I found a listing in the Fall Line 1977 Line Book BAWDO210 that appears it could be your Dad's watch. Not much of a description is given, just a number and original dealer and retail prices.

numbernoname1

nummbernoname2

Based on info I have to work with, it appears your Dad's watch could be  a 

 Bulova 12541-9Y

This is a preliminary educated guess and I await the opinion of the other panel members. Your front photo has shadows making the case shape a little hard to determine. Does it match the shape and proportions shown in the ad?

 

 

Ruggero Melis
Posted January 17, 2021 - 7:09pm

In reply to by neetstuf-4-u

Thank you very much for the pront reply! At some point, when the pandemic restrictions allow it, I will bring it to a shop and have it serviced, so that I can take a look inside and identify the movement.

The only other additional info that I have for now is that I'm writing from Italy and that the watch was likely purchased here. It might be irrelevant though.

Thanks again!

R

neetstuf-4-u
Posted January 17, 2021 - 7:20pm

In reply to by Ruggero Melis

You are most welcome! Not irrelevant at all, actually quite helpful. My initial thought was it was produced in Europe based on the serial number starting with 5-

Geoff Baker
Posted January 18, 2021 - 9:52pm

It is too bad that Bulova stopped naming in the middle 1970's. It is a fine watch your father left for you.

1978 Bulova Unknown

Kathy L.
Posted January 19, 2021 - 10:04am

Welcome to myBulova and thank you for sharing your watch with us.  It is a very nice heirloom from your father.  We don't name watches once Bulova started using only numbers but it is great that you have line book reference above of Bulova 12541-9Y.

1978 Bulova