Bulova - Longchamp - Ohne mindestpreis - 7965 1 - Herren - 1976

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

This captivating 1970s timepiece perfectly encapsulates the adventurous and highly stylized design language of the era. The Bulova Longchamp line was conceived to offer sophisticated, dress-oriented watches with distinct visual flair, and this particular example delivers that promise through an extraordinary geometric dial. With its striking texture, elegant cushion case, and reliable manual-winding mechanical heart, this watch represents a superb opportunity to acquire a highly distinctive and beautifully preserved vintage dress watch that commands immediate attention on the wrist.

Brand: Bulova
Model: Longchamp
Reference Number: 7965 1
Serial Number: 5249136
Movement: Manual Wind, Caliber 10 CK
Dial: Gold-tone geometric textured dial with applied black baton indices, exceptionally clean condition
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Gold-Plated (10 Microns) with Stainless Steel Caseback
Production Year: 1976
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and honest case wear

Dial and Hands
The absolute focal point of this timepiece is its mesmerizing gold-tone dial, which features a deeply stamped, repeating geometric maze pattern. This intricate texture catches the light dynamically, creating a sophisticated backdrop for the minimalist time display. The dial is furnished with slim, applied black baton hour markers that harmonize perfectly with the slender black baton hands, ensuring excellent legibility against the complex background. The typography is crisp and sharp, featuring a sans-serif "BULOVA" printed below the twelve o'clock position, "LONGCHAMP" above six o'clock, and "SWISS" nestled at the very bottom edge. A careful loupe inspection reveals the dial to be in outstanding condition. It remains remarkably clean, showing no signs of moisture damage, spotting, staining, or edge wear. The printed elements are fully intact, and the dial presents a stunning, factory-fresh appearance that is exceedingly rare for a watch of this vintage.

Case and Crystal
The 34 mm cushion-shaped case offers a smooth, rounded-square profile that wears with elegant presence. The case is finished in a 10-micron gold plating, as confirmed by the interior caseback stamping. The transition from the flat bezel to the gently sloping mid-case is well-defined. The case exhibits honest signs of vintage wear, including light surface scratches and minor handling marks along the polished flanks and bezel edge, but retains its structural integrity without any deep gouges or heavy plating loss. The watch retains its original, correctly proportioned crown, proudly signed with the iconic Bulova tuning fork logo. The reverse features a vertically brushed stainless steel caseback, sharply engraved with the serial number 5249136 and reference number 7965 1. The flat crystal sits flush with the case profile and remains clear, offering an unobstructed view of the magnificent dial.

Movement
Powering this Longchamp is the Bulova manual-winding Caliber 10 CK, a robust and beautifully finished Swiss movement. The gold-tone movement plates are exceptionally clean and feature crisp factory engravings, including "BULOVA WATCH CO", "10 CK", "SEVENTEEN 17 JEWELS", and "UNADJUSTED SWISS". Crucially, the movement is stamped with the "N6" date code, precisely dating the production of this caliber to 1976. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher records a deviation of -10 to -15 seconds per day.

Strap
The watch is fitted with a period correct black leather strap featuring an elegant alligator-style grain and tonal stitching. The strap is supple and in excellent condition, secured by a gold-tone pin buckle that perfectly complements the warm tones of the case and dial.

Condition
This Bulova Longchamp is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, remaining flawlessly preserved with no visible aging or deterioration. The gold-plated case shows expected, honest surface wear consistent with careful use over the decades, maintaining its attractive original lines. The movement is remarkably clean and running with outstanding precision.

Dimensions
The case measures 34 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The cushion case design ensures it sits comfortably and prominently on the wrist, offering a refined footprint suitable for both formal and casual settings.

Remarks
Finding a vintage timepiece with such a bold, undamaged textured dial is a true delight for collectors. The geometric pattern of this Longchamp elevates it from a standard dress watch to a notable piece of 1970s horological design. Its excellent mechanical health and pristine face make it a highly desirable addition to any vintage portfolio.

History
Founded in New York in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, the Bulova Watch Company grew to become one of the most significant and innovative forces in American and Swiss watchmaking. By the 1970s, Bulova was experimenting with daring case shapes and intricate dial textures to meet the evolving tastes of a fashion-forward public. The Longchamp collection was introduced to provide elegant, slim, and artistically inspired dress watches that stood apart from the bulky tool watches of the era. Today, these richly textured models are highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the unique intersection of mid-century Swiss watchmaking and bold 1970s aesthetic design.

Payment and Shipping
Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase.
Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent).
Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age.
Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description.
If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you.
As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends.

/ Second Vintage

SKU: BUL-LXX-0002