Tuning Fork Watch Appraisal

Bulova Accutron Astronaut GMT Watch (1968, Ref. M8)

This is a vintage Bulova Accutron Astronaut wristwatch, dated to 1968 based on the M8 date code visible in the original listing's metadata. The timepiece features a stainless steel case with a diameter of approximately 38mm, showcasing a distinct circular design without a traditional crown on the right side, as the time-setting mechanism is located on the case back. The dial is a sunburst silver/white color with applied tritium-filled hour markers and the iconic tuning fork logo at 12 o'clock. It features four hands: luminous dauphine-style hour and minute hands, a thin sweep seconds hand, and a GMT hand with a triangle tip for tracking a second time zone. Surrounding the domed acrylic crystal is a bidirectional rotating 'coke' style bezel with a 24-hour scale, though this specific example shows a black-toned insert with silver-toned numerals. The watch is mounted on a black leather strap. Condition-wise, the dial appears well-preserved with minor patina on the lume plots, which have aged to a creamy yellow. The bezel exhibits light surface scratching and minor paint loss consistent with its age. This model represents the height of 1960s horological innovation, utilizing the cal. 214 electronic tuning fork movement which was famously used in the Cockpit of the A-12 and X-15 aircraft.