Bidspirit auction | Vintage Bulova Cadet Men's Manual

Vintage Bulova Cadet Men's Manual Wind Tank Watch in 10K Rolled Gold Plate - This is a vintage Bulova Cadet men's tank-style wristwatch dating to the early 1950s. The timepiece features a tonneau-shaped case with a 10K rolled gold plate bezel characterized by ornate scrollwork engraving along the sides and distinctive sculptural fancy lugs. The dial is a champagne tone with significant uniform patina and oxidation, featuring a mix of applied gold-tone Arabic numerals at the 12, 2, 4, 8, and 10 positions and dot indices for the remaining hours. A recessed rectangular sub-seconds dial is located at the 6 o'clock position. The watch is powered by a Swiss-made Bulova caliber 10BC manual wind mechanical movement with 15 jewels. The movement is stamped with the date code L1 and the case back with L0, indicating manufacture in 1951 and 1950 respectively. The exterior case back is stamped Bulova, L0, and serial number 4217836. The interior case back is marked Bulova, 10K Rolled Gold Plate Bezel, Stainless Back, New York, and contains hand-etched watchmaker service marks. The watch is presented as the head only, without a strap or spring bars. Case Width: 25mm excluding crown Lug to Lug: 38mm. The watch is in well-worn vintage condition and runs when wound. The crystal is heavily scratched and clouded. The dial exhibits significant uniform patina, oxidation, and spotting consistent with age. The gold-plated bezel shows surface scratching and noticeable wear-through or brassing on the edges and the high points of the lugs. The stainless steel back has surface scuffs. While the movement is functional, its accuracy and power reserve are untested, and a professional service is recommended for regular use.