Vintage Bulova Cadet "D" Dress Watch 15 Jewels Cal. 10BC Tonneau Case Wristwatch

Watch Overview

This is a vintage Bulova Cadet "D" dress mechanical wristwatch from the 1940s. It is powered by the original Bulova caliber 10BC mechanical movement with 15 jewels and small-seconds. The movement delivers a 45-hour power reserve and operates at 18,000 vibrations per hour. Swiss made.

The white dial features applied gold-tone Arabic numerals with a black "railroad" minute track and matching gold hands. The sub-second is at 6 o'clock and the dial is signed with the Bulova name on top.

Cased in a 25.3mm tonneau case and made in 10K yellow rolled gold plated bezel and stainless steel back, this timepiece features a engraved and polished finish with fancy lugs design. Paired with a gold-tone Kreisler gold filled bracelet, this Bulova wristwatch presents well with signs of honest aging. Fully inspected and authenticated. Running and wearable.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Bulova
• Type: Wristwatch
• Model: Cadet "D"
• Reference: -
• Year / Era: 1940s - Vintage
• Gender: Men's
• Country of Manufacture: Switzerland

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: White
• Features: Arabic numerals. "Railroad" minute track. Small-second

Movement

• Type: Manual-Winding
• Caliber: Bulova 10BC
• Jewels: 15
• Some Features:
  • Small-second hand
• Power Reserve: 45-hours
• Frequency: 18,000vph

Case & Band

• Material: 10K yellow rolled gold plated and Stainless steel back
• Case Shape: Tonneau/Barrel
• Bezel: Engraved. Fixed
• Back: Snap
• Crown: Signed Pull-Push
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Band: Bracelet
• Water Resistance: -
• Case Back Markings: Bulova 10K Rolled Gold Plated Bezel stainless Steel Back New York
• Other Info: Engraved case with fancy lugs design

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 25.3
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 27
• Case Lug to Lug: 38.5
• Case Thickness: 9
• Lug Width: 16
• Band Width: 16

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: NO
• Condition: The watch is in good condition, some signs of wear consistent with its age and use, a solid case, fancy lugs and beautiful dial.
• Extras: Fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker, confirming that it runs accurately. It is ready to wear and enjoy.

History & Legacy of Bulova

The Bulova Watch Company is a distinguished American watchmaker with a legacy spanning more than 140 years. Founded in 1875 by Czech immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, the company quickly earned a reputation for innovation and precision in timekeeping. Originally producing high-quality pocket watches and jewelry, Bulova became a pioneer in the wristwatch market by the early 20th century. Notably, the brand introduced the first full line of men's wristwatches in 1919 and was among the first to implement standardized production across its timepieces. Throughout the decades, Bulova led numerous horological milestones, including the launch of the first television commercial in 1941. In 2008, Bulova was acquired by Citizen Watch Co. Ltd. of Japan, forming Citizen Watch America. Today, Bulova continues to offer a diverse range of watches—from classic automatics to cutting-edge precisionist models—renowned for their craftsmanship, reliability, and iconic American style.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

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