Bulova Accutron Spaceview Tonneau 214 (c. 1974)

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$1,445 CAD
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*Applicable taxes, import fees, and shipping not included

DESCRIPTION

The Spaceview 214 isn’t just a vintage watch—it’s a front-row seat to one of the most fascinating chapters in horological history. Originally unveiled in 1960, the Bulova Accutron was the world’s first commercially available electronic watch, developed by Swiss engineer Max Hetzel. It ditched the traditional balance wheel in favour of a humming 360Hz tuning fork, driven by a battery-powered transistor oscillator circuit—making it accurate to within two seconds a day and good enough for U.S. railroad certification.

The Spaceview variant came about almost by accident. Initially a demo model to show off the new tech, customers became obsessed with the open display—and Bulova leaned into the demand, releasing retail versions that wore their sci-fi guts proudly on their sleeves.

This particular Spaceview is a later example from 1974 (case stamped N4), housed in the larger Tonneau case, measuring 38mm x 41.5mm. That extra real estate gives it a more modern feel on the wrist compared to earlier Accutrons—still full of vintage charm, just with a little more presence.

Inside, the tuning fork emits a gentle hum as it drives a custom escapement wheel with 300 microscopic teeth, giving the seconds hand its impossibly smooth sweep. It’s a sensation that feels almost surreal to watch—and completely unlike anything else before or since.

After the model’s 17-year run, the Spaceview went quiet for decades before a recent revival brought it back into the spotlight. But it’s these original-era examples that collectors gravitate toward—authentic, revolutionary, and undeniably cool.

CONDITION

This watch is in fantastic vintage condition. The lightly polished case retains crisp lines and no major distractions. The original lume-filled hands are in excellent condition with lume plots on the dial aging evenly. There is some minor scuffing on the original plexi-glass crystal, and the white applied Accutron logo on the crystal remains intact - a rare bonus for Accutrons of this era, as these tend to fade or chip off over time. The movement is running great, though the service history is unknown.

The watch is fitted with a handsome brown leather strap, and comes with a couple of real treats for collectors:

• Original Owner’s Guide & Warranty Booklet
• Vintage paper folder that once held a replacement 214 power cell.

These little extras round out what’s already a stellar example of one of the most historically significant electronic watches ever made.

SPECIFICATIONS

• 38mm wide (41.5mm lug-to-lug) “Tonneau” stainless steel case

• Tuning fork movement (Cal. 214)

• Open “Spaceview” dial with exposed tuning fork and circuitry

• Domed acrylic crystal

• Comes with brown leather strap + original booklet + 214 power cell folder