Vintage Bulova Open-Face Pocket Watch

This is a vintage mid-20th-century open-face pocket watch by Bulova. The watch features a gold-tone metal case with an etched or engine-turned pattern along the bezel circumference. The cream-colored dial displays gold-applied Arabic numerals in a stylized sans-serif font, accompanied by a matching gold-tone hour, minute, and needle-thin sweep hand. A recessed sub-dial for seconds is positioned at the 6 o'clock mark, featuring 10-second increment markings and a railway track index. The dial prominently displays the 'BULOVA' brand name in block lettering below the 12 o'clock position. The crown and bow are located at the 12 o'clock position, showing appropriate wear for its age. The condition of the watch is fair to good; there is significant visible foxing and patination across the dial surface, suggesting moisture exposure or aging of the protective lacquer. There is also visible green oxidation (verdigris) accumulating along the periphery where the crystal meets the bezel, and several surface scratches are noted on the acrylic crystal. Based on the typography and Art Deco-leaning numerals, this piece likely dates to the 1940s or 1950s.

This vintage Bulova open-face pocket watch, likely dating from the late 1940s or early 1950s based on its stylized Arabic numerals and sub-second dial configuration, presents in fair condition. Upon visual inspection, the movement is presumed to be a 10AE or similar 17-jewel manual wind caliber, which was a workhorse for Bulova during this era. The aesthetic is quintessential mid-century Art Deco. However, the value is significantly tempered by the visible condition issues. The extensive foxing and spotting on the dial indicate possible moisture ingress, and the presence of verdigris near the bezel suggests the base metal—likely a gold-filled brass—is experiencing oxidation. While the case design is elegant, most examples of this type were gold-filled rather than solid gold, limiting its intrinsic metal value. The collector market for mid-century American-branded pocket watches is currently stable but selective; buyers prioritize 'new old stock' or pristine dials. Comparables for similar Bulova models in this state typically sell in the $150 to $250 range at auction. A full professional service and dial restoration could double this value, though restoration costs often exceed the resulting market gain. Please note that this appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A definitive valuation would require an in-person inspection to verify the movement's functionality, movement grade, and to confirm the case material via hallmarks. I would need to open the case back to check for rust on the balance spring and ensure the integrity of the train of wheels. Provenance or original paperwork would also provide a modest premium.