Bulova Accutron 'Breguet' Red Fumé

Overall Condition: Excellent condition overall. Case shows only light wear consistent with age and use. Dial and handset are excellent.

In 1960, Bulova imagined the future of watchmaking—and that future hummed.

The Accutron was one of the great technological leaps of the 20th century, replacing the traditional balance wheel with an electronically powered tuning fork. Developed under the direction of engineer Max Hetzel, the system delivered exceptional accuracy for its era and produced the faint, unmistakable hum that became an Accutron signature. Long before quartz reshaped the industry, Bulova had already introduced an entirely new way of keeping time.

This 1973 example shows just how adventurous Accutron design became as the Space Age gave way to the 1970s. Housed in a wonderfully angular stainless steel cushion case, the watch is dominated by a fabulous red fumé dial that graduates from glowing crimson at its center to nearly black around the perimeter. Applied stylized “Breguet” Arabic numerals add an unexpectedly traditional flourish, while luminous hands and plots complete the wonderfully idiosyncratic combination.

Inside is Bulova’s Calibre 218 tuning-fork movement, an evolution of the original Accutron technology that moved the time-setting crown from the caseback to the more conventional 4:00 position. Turn the watch over, and there’s another charming detail: a simple personal engraving on the caseback, adding a small piece of human history to an already distinctive vintage watch.

There is something especially appealing about this particular Accutron. The cushion case, dramatic fumé color, and ornate numerals capture a moment when futuristic technology and flamboyant 1970s design could happily coexist on the same wrist.

And yes, hold it to your ear. More than 50 years later, you can still hear the future humming away.

ACCUTRON FACTORY CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED

Analog:Shift is proud to be partnered with Accutron as the exclusive retailer for Factory Certified Pre-Owned timepieces. Our longstanding relationship and shared passion for horological history and design have culminated in this unique offering.

Each Accutron timepiece undergoes rigorous inspection and certification by expert watchmakers and is backed by the manufacture, ensuring unparalleled authenticity and quality.