Bulova tuning fork logo12/27/2023 ![]() Matte silver case with date complication on a leather band and optional black NATO.However, there are some case and band options: The dial comes in any color you like, as long as it’s black. MSRP runs $550-$600 depending on the version, but the price fluctuates, sometimes as low as $350. The case back features Bulova’s signature “tuning fork” logo, the Apollo 15 mission dates, and the time and lunar geography of Scott’s first moonwalk with the Bulova prototype. The 20mm lug width makes swapping the band a cinch. The stainless steel case is a chunky, but manageable, 45mm x 52mm x 13.5 mm. Unlike the original, Bulova modernized the design with a sapphire crystal, a date window on some versions, and a high-beat quartz movement. Like the original, the reproduction Bulova Lunar Pilot features an elegantly shaped body with a meaty crown between elongated pushers, three subdials on the face, long fencepost hands, and a tachymeter. Not all Moonwatches are Omega (or Swatch interpretations) Form The excitement inspired Bulova to cash in themselves with a line of chronographs celebrating the original Apollo 15 watch. At that time, that was the highest price ever paid for a watch (but has since been well surpassed). Bulova never dethroned the Speedy as NASA’s official watch, but Scott kept his prototype and sold it at auction in 2015 for a cool $1.6 million. One small step for Dave, one giant leap for Bulova watch sales. On Day 2 of Apollo 15’s stay on the Moon, mission commander Dave Scott strapped on his Bulova when his Omega lost its crystal. Bulova adapted a different Swiss chronograph design and gave away the prototypes to astronauts for “testing”. NASA famously issued the Apollo astronauts Omega Speedmaster chronographs for their horological needs, but Bulova, which produced the chronometric instrumentation for the Apollo spacecraft, wanted in on the watch action. ![]() But if you can’t get your hands on the new MoonSWATCH or afford a real McCoy Omega Speedmaster, are you just straight outta luck? Fortunately, as everyone’s favorite little green Jedi Master once said, “ No, there is another.” Enter the Bulova Lunar Pilot. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Apollo program, and it’s already been a big year for “moon” watches. When he’s not spending time with his family, he enjoys traditional archery, mountain biking, canoeing and the occasional pour of nice bourbon. is a retired US Army tank officer, husband, and father living in Northern Virginia. Bulova Archive Series Lunar Pilot 96A225 – $378.99Ībout the Author: John B.
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