Why This Watch Matters This Caravelle dive watch from the late 1960s is a rare find with plenty of character. It's the perfect addition to any vintage dive watch collection. The Full Story Bulova was founded by Joseph Bulova in 1875 in New York City. The company is known for its long and innovative history, including the release of the Accutron – the world's first fully electronic watch using tuning fork-based technology – in 1960. To keep up with growing demand in the early 20th century, Bulova opened a factory in Bienne, Switzerland, using the "American Watchmaking System," which had similar principles to an assembly line with a focus on interchangeable parts. In 1962, Bulova introduced a new line of watches under the "Caravelle" brand name. The watch we have here is ref. 665-1, a dive watch from the late 1960s. This model is seldom seen and features an attractive design that is characteristic of the period. The six, nine, and 12 numerals are similar to those found on a Tudor Ranger or Rolex Explorer, and the uniquely shaped hands are near in appearance to those found on the Longines Nautilus Skin Diver and Tudor Ranger as well as some other dive watches from the late 1960s and '70s. The white seconds hand matches the white text on the dial quite nicely and really pops. The dial has retained its glossiness and almost shimmers in the light. The lume on the dial has darkened beautifully, with an off-white, almost toasted color. The crystal has a cyclops built on the interior, so the crystal itself is flush. Additionally, this watch has 20mm lugs, making the process of switching straps a simple endeavor. The movement is stamped "M9," indicating it's from 1969. The caseback has an interesting design that looks somewhat like a chrome hubcap. The Fine Print Maker: Caravelle Model: Automatic Water-Resistant Reference: 665-1Year: 1969Case No: N/A Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 11.5mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Self winding ETA 2472 Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Sedona Strap in Mustard Lug Width: 20mm Box/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Caravelle is in nice condition. The case is thick and may have been lightly polished. The case has light scratches with a few deeper scratches on the caseback. The dial and hands are in good condition and have developed patina. The glossy dial has an "oil slick" look to it, making it seem almost iridescent. The lume on the hands and on the dial has darkened, the lume on the hands is slightly lighter than the lume on the dial. The bezel is in good condition with some scratches and wear around the edge. The case, dial, crown, and movement are all signed, "Caravelle."
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