Bulova Watch Co.: American Innovation in Horology Since 1875
Bulova Watch Company is a renowned American watchmaking firm that shaped the global watch industry through pioneering technology, rigorous precision, and iconic design.
Key Highlights
Founded: 1875 by Joseph Bulova, a Bohemian immigrant, in New York City, initially as a jewelry shop
Early Growth: Began manufacturing clocks and pocket watches in 1911, then opened a dedicated plant for standardized watch production in Biel, Switzerland, in 1912—becoming a leader in the mass production of precise timepieces
First in Men’s Wristwatches: In 1919, launched one of the first complete lines of jeweled wristwatches for men, ushering in an era of modern wristwear
Innovation in Manufacturing: By 1923, perfected complete interchangeability of watch parts—an industry first—enabling efficient repairs and servicing
Observatory: In 1927, built the world’s first watch observatory atop 580 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan to improve timing accuracy
Advertising Pioneers: Aired the world’s first radio commercial (1926) and later the first television commercial (1941), both promoting Bulova’s precision
World War II Efforts: Produced military watches, aircraft instruments, and fuses for the US Army, contributing to Allied efforts during WWII
Accutron Revolution: In 1960, introduced the Accutron—the world’s first fully electronic watch with a tuning-fork mechanism, offering unmatched accuracy for its time
Over 4 million Accutrons were sold by 1977
Moon Mission Role: Timekeeping devices developed by Bulova were used in 46 NASA space missions, including as backup timing devices during the Apollo program
Ownership Evolution: Became part of the Loews Corporation in 1979 and was acquired by Japan’s Citizen Watch Co. in 2008
Modern Innovations: Continues to innovate with collections like Precisionist and Curv, the latter being the world’s first curved chronograph movement
Why Bulova Matters
Technological Firsts: Pioneered electronic timekeeping and standardized mass production in watchmaking.
Cultural Reach: Instrumental in shaping American timekeeping and advertising, with memorable media milestones.
Collector Appeal: Vintage Bulova models, especially Accutrons, are prized for their design, innovation, and historic significance.
Ongoing Influence: Remains a leader in both classic and advanced watch technology under Citizen ownership.
Bulova stands as a testament to American innovation—blending tradition, technology, and cultural impact for 150 years and counting