1970s Caravelle Automatic Diver (8+)

Bulova was founded in 1879 by Joseph Bulova, an expat from the Czech Republic who came to America in 1860 at the age of 9.  The brand quickly gained recognition for its innovative and quality timepieces.  Upon opening a factory in Bienne, Switzerland, in 1912, Bulova continued to push the envelope in technological advances and brand recognition, becoming the first watch brand to advertise on the radio in 1923 and later the first on television in 1941.  In 1962, Bulova launched the Caravelle line as an affordable line, with jeweled movements at a highly competitive price point as non-jeweled movement timepieces.  

The Caravelle Ref 745 “Jet Seconds” Diver Super Waterproof features a 41mm x 43mm tonneau-shaped stainless steel case with a bidirectional rotating bezel and an acrylic crystal.  The black dial features applied
hour markers, lumed hour and minute hands, and a “Jet”-shaped tip on the seconds hand.  A day and date window is located at the 3 o’clock position.  The Caravelle 11 OKACB automatic movement powers the Ref 745.
 

This timepiece dates to the production year of 1969.  The tritium lume on the hour markers and hands have developed a pumpkin-colored patina.  This Caravelle Ref 745 includes an aftermarket black leather strap with a
stainless steel buckle.