Why This Watch Matters Hailing from the era of skin diving is this gorgeous Caravelle diver, a rare find in this condition. 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. 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, 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 almond 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 "M7," indicating it's from 1967. The caseback is stamped "7" indicating it is from 1967 as well. It's nice when these details line up. The caseback has an interesting design that looks somewhat like a chrome hubcap. We paired this diver with our Bedford strap in Sand to match the lume patina on the dial, hands, and bezel pip. The Fine Print Maker: CaravelleModel: DiverReference: 665Year: 1967Case No: N/AMaterial: Stainless steelDimensions: 35mm diameter; 11.5mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: ETA, self-winding, caliber 2472Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Bedford Suede Watch Strap In SandLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Glossy black dial - Beautiful lume color - Interesting caseback Things To Know: - Scratches on case- Unsigned replacement crown This Caravelle is in great, honest condition. The case is strong with some scratches. The case has light scratches with a few deeper scratches on the caseback. The caseback has a few marks and appears to have been lightly polished. The text and date mark "7" are still visible. The glossy dial has an "oil slick" look to it, making it seem almost iridescent. The dial and hands are in good condition and have developed patina. The lume on the hands and on the dial has developed patina but matches well. The bezel is in good condition with some scratches and wear around the edge. The lume in the bezel is slightly darker than that of the hands and dial. The bezel is a bit loose and rotates easily. The crown is an unsigned replacement. The case, dial, and movement are all signed, "Caravelle." This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
