Bulova Accutron Spaceview 214 c. 1971

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$1,595 CAD
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*Applicable taxes, import fees, and shipping not included*

In 1960, amidst a period of rapid technological advancements that inspired innovation across all sectors of society and consumer products, Bulova introduced a timepiece that presented its own unique vision of an electric future. That timepiece is the Accutron - the world's first electronic watch to come to market, many years before the quartz crisis would take the watch market to its knees.

THE ACCUTRON STORY

The Accutron, crafted by Swiss innovator, Max Hetzel, eliminated the traditional balance wheel, opting instead for a 360-hertz tuning fork driven by electromagnets and a battery-powered transistor oscillator circuit. Its unprecedented precision, accurate to within two seconds per day, was so accurate that it actually became the first watch to meet the standards for U.S. Railroad certification.

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The Spaceview model, initially designed as a display piece to showcase the Accutron's intricate mechanics, unexpectedly captivated the window-shoppers passing by. The transparent design, allowing a clear view of its internal workings, led to a surge in demand for the display model itself, prompting Bulova to release retail versions of the skeletonized design.

After the Accutron Spaceview’s 17 year production run, the model went dormant for several decades, until its revival just a few years ago. Despite being superseded by the industry-shaking quartz revolution, the Accutron Spaceview holds a unique place in horological history, and is a true testament to mid-century innovation and design.

Holding it up to your ear, the gentle hum of the tuning fork is a soothing reminder of its revolutionary legacy, and why it has earned a special place as a cult favourite among modern day collectors. 

CONDITION

This Accutron is in excellent condition, showing honest wear from regular use. Aside from normal signs of wear for a watch of its age, it shows no major nicks or scratches worth pointing out. The original crystal is in excellent condition, with no scratches. The white text pressed on the crystal shows a very small amount of non-distracting degradation, which is commonly seen on these models.

Its tritium markers and a large stick handset display a wonderfully even patina. The case appears to have been tastefully polished, with bevelled edges still pronounced. Paired with the box, an the original Bulova branded strap, adorned with an authentic tuning fork shaped steel buckle, this set is a pure delight.

SERVICE HISTORY

Service history is unknown, but is running as it should. 

SPECIFICATIONS

MOVEMENT: Electric
CALIBRE:

Calibre 214
CASE METAL: Stainless Steel
BRACELET: Leather
CRYSTAL: Plexiglass
CASE SIZE: 38mm x 42.5mm
CASE THICKNESS: 12.9mm
WATER RESISTANCE: Due to its age, we recommend keeping away from heavy water exposure
CONDITION: Pre-Worn: Good, signs of light wear. 
CONTENTS: Original Box