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While that's be nice, their parent company, Ci, wouldn't want to take the hit. And it'd be hell for Grand Seiko Spring drive to compete with. It's basically "intellectual property". The Tuning Quartz is Bulova's Holy grail item, as to Seiko's Spring Drive.
@@yeejay6396 But Bulova doesn’t know how to take advantage of this holy grail. Their designs sucks! There is not a single watch that I find pretty in this precisionist movement.
I own two Bulova Precisionist watches, and so far I’ve had no problems with either one. They both are well finished, and keeping perfect time. I’d highly recommend them. They have the smoothest running second hand that I have personally seen.
I have 2 as well. And it’s not because they unreliable. It’s because I like them so much. I’ve had them both over 10 years and never had an issue with either of them. Don’t believe the BS. Take it from someone who owns 2 of them and has worn them both for a long time. Bulova is quality. And nothing will outweigh my own experience. Not to mention at least.
I've had a similar model (96B257) for a few years now and it's excellent. I'm surprised that it hasn't gotten more love, although I expect that the "Precisionist" name is overshadowed by the huge, gaudy, and overly busy chronograph models that share the label. Thank you for spotlighting this far more appealing version. I expect that as Grand Seiko continues to rise in popularity, these will become harder to find as people try to scratch the spring drive itch. Those interested in this watch because of its distinctive sweep should consider the 96B257 as well. Its blue, sunburst dial is a little simpler than the version featured here, but it has skeletonized hour and minute hands and stepped indices that add some intricacy. It also has a more accessible caseback and 100m of water resistance. I haven't changed out its leather strap, which is fine, but these specs may lend it to more sporty use than this model--especially since its similarly large size may make it a bit of a challenge to pull off as a dress watch. The lume is equally terrible though. One final bit of advice: I recommend setting up an eBay saved search for the model number you want and giving it time. The bulk of the 96B257 watches that tend to come up sell at around $250, but every once in a while you'll see a heavily discounted one pop up (I see one for sale right now for just over $150, and it looks just as good as the other examples that are out there).
This tip actually worked! I had one on my watchlist and then I get an email that the seller dropped the price, I immediately ordered a "factory refurbished" 98B267 for $85
With an aftermarket strap you cna dress just about any watch up or down. I'd look into Perlon, Zulu or even NATO straps. They come in all types of variations and materials.
I've been thinking about Boluva lately. I've never seen such a great movement wasted in such bad watches. If they sold the movement to micro brands imagine the sapphire crystal dive watches with that sweep second hand!
Amen x2 !🙏 Actually, all I'd want is a Seiko SNXS79J1 that would feature a solar powered Quartz movement (like a Casio Wave Ceptor LCW-M170D-1AER) with sweeping seconds hand tech (like this Bulova Precisionist or a Seiko VH31) and multiband/radiographic atomic time (also like that Casio). Not too much to ask, come on now! 😂🤭
I have the Precisionist 97B186 and absolutely love it. The sweep is second to none and a 300m diver depth out of a chronograph is amazing. It is a big watch though and the color combination can be of putting for some, but I think it's a great watch added to the collection. I looked very hard at the one Been covered but decided to go for the chronograph instead.
Found this for £80 in Tk-max a few years back. Removed the strap when I got home and mounted a steel mesh bracelet and honestly it is sensational. Cannot believe how many people ask me about the watch.
@@deez8736 It really is. Yes, they have a lot of brands that are just overpriced fashion brands, but I found a lot of good deals for Hamilton, Citizen, Seiko, etc. You just have to pay attention and see through the garbage.
@@povertyspec9651 Real men don't have to wear a wall clock on their wrist to compensate for their tiny pecker. I'm not legally blind, I don't have to wear a giant watch to see what time it is. By the time I'm that old and blind, I won't need to know what time it is.
They made some nice watches with this movement, many retro inspired (I have a "military" one), but then they discontinued most of them. Why? It has a short battery life they say but still...It's Spring Drive smooth. I bet some micro brands would have liked that movement. Most of Bulova's catalog consists of comically busy chronographs with hex nuts, colors, teeny tiny printing, honeycombs, enormous cases...you get the picture. Who is their market? Come on Bulova- bring back that movement, tap into your vintage back catalog and stop making hideous monstrosities. Someone put me in charge of Bulova already!
I have the military one too, Bulova 96b229, great looking watch with sweeping second hand and coin edge bezel, crazy accurate ,they should rerelease that very underated. also had one of their Nightawk chronographs, way way too big.r
They've put the same movement in the Bulova Lunar Pilot, but it only powers the chronograph sweep. The running seconds sweep runs at 2hz. The Lunar Pilot is refreshingly understated, and one almost could say has a "Swiss Sensibility" since it was literally modeled after a Speedmaster Professional in the hopes that NASA would replace their Omegas with Bulova's. Bulova even purchased a Swiss company to make the original mechanical versions for them. It's how a Bulova prototype ended up on the Moon with CMDR David Scott in 1971. The problem is that the 3 hand Precisionist has a pretty hefty current draw because the second hand is engaged 24/7. When they use it on a Chronograph movement, then it's only on when the chronograph is running (an hour at a time). Thus the battery life is conserved quite a bit. The distinctive "tick" of a quartz movement has always been due to power management. Especially in the early 70's when Quartz was first developed. At that time, most quartz watches had an expected battery life of 1 to 2 years, and if manufacturer's had put in a stepper motor that would have simulated the sweep on a 28,800 BPH mechanical, it would cause the stepper motor on the quartz watch to cycle 4 times more often. No one wanted to replace a battery every 3 to 6 months. So the standard "1hz" tick was adopted to maximize battery life. Since then mechanical watch snobs have used the "tick" as a point of derision. Complaining that they prefer the motion of a mechanical watch, or complaining when the second hand doesn't stop precisely on the index marker. Basically a way to justify why they turn their nose up at a watch that is a fraction of the cost of an automatic and is 10X more accurate. Is a smooth second hand nice? Sure. But is it worth replacing your battery 4 times more often? If your watch has any water resistance at all, I'd say no. Since Bulova is owned by the Citizen group, perhaps Eco Drive will evolve to the point that an Eco Drive watch could drive a 4hz stepper motor and provide a high beat sweep. That would be nice. Then we wouldn't have to worry about the battery. If the Eco-Drive accumulator ever got low, say 60%, then it could go into "power saver mode" and click at 1hz like a standard quartz, and then if it got really low, go to 2hz or 4hz like they already do. In the meantime, I let the mechanical watch snobs have their "smooth" second hand. I have several automatics and love a good automatic movement when it's appropriate (like in a skeleton movement, or vintage WWII hack watch, etc.) but for daily wear, nothing beats the accuracy or grab and go functionality of a quartz. And after all, the primary function of a watch, is to keep time.
@@williamthomas6106 I love the Lunar Pilot. It's a bit large on my dainty wrist, so it's not a daily wear for me, but I enjoy owning it, I guess. I really thought the introduction of Lunar Pilot would be a comeback for Bulova - with the good publicity the original watch generated. I feel like Bulova has done very little other than the reintroduction of Lunar Pilot, which people who are interested bought already. Then people like me went through their catalogue and came up with the same conclusion @Christopher Hawkins that the rest of the watches are comically hideous.
What I find truly baffling is the kinds of watches they are selling with this movement. There's a reason that radio control, solar, and other such tech is found in a G-Shock and not a JLC. I can't imagine how putting a bulky precision quartz movement (that presumably eats batteries) into a dress watch sounded like a great idea to them. They did the same thing with their 0100 limited edition. Even S pring Drives get bought despite the bulk, not because of it. If they took one of their everyday sporty designs, adjust them to fit the movement while remaining as small as possible, and released it as the Precisionist Edition, they would be laughing all the way to the bank.
I had one of these when they came out. 96B128 Strap was a bit shonky but the dial was beautiful, super accurate and was only about one hundred quid. Thanks for making me regret selling it
I have this watch and it is just amazing! Such fun to watch and great great quality. Got a nice rubber strap attached and love it. A shame that Bulova went in strange ways with the other models, but this is stunning
The Seiko movement VH31 also has a sweeping second hand. (Quartz oscillation ~32khz). As the sweeping motion drains the battery faster, Seiko or Citizen/Bulova should combine these quartz movements with their solar technology.
The quartz oscillation in the Precisionist is much higher and has other features differing it from a traditional quartz movement. True, any traditional 32Khz watch can be made to sweep at any rate but was reduced to once a second due to battery usage, as you mentioned. I agree with you on the solar aspect, as this technology has much improved.
There's a very similar blue precisionist on Amazon rn for $178. I have been waiting for the perfect affordable Precisionist for about four years, but alas this is too large and too stylistically distinctive. The only thing I can say is that the design isn't absolutely horrible like the majority of other Precisionists which is not to say it is entirely pleasing. Bulova, Bulova . . . so much potential. I love that smooth second hand, though. Only Grand Seiko can compete.
@@KabobHope anybody that wants to "compete" can. They simply just need to commit resources to developing a high frequency quartz movement. Any mid tier or even entry level brands easily have the pockets and means to do so. I just don't think anybody wants to.
I got one about a year ago and it’s been pretty great. I wasn’t used to the light weight as all my other watches are automatic but it looks and feels amazing.
This is my daily watch. Worn for over 2 1/2yrs it looks smart, keeps perfect time and wears well on a dark olive green Nato strap. A recent motor cycle crash put scratches on upper case bezel which can be polished out. Like the watch very much. Look forward to keeping it around for a long time.
I own this watch, bought a replacement leather strap and a mesh strap, and it's a very good dress piece. Great review, and I completely agree with your take.
I’ve heard mixed things on bulova, but it turns out ive had one, kinda, for about 10 Years. Bought a caravelle off amazon when i graduated middle school. Its been great and reliable. Got it for $15 and it hasn’t failed me
I have this watch and really enjoy it. Very nice polishing on the indices, and the dial doesn't look as busy from a foot or two away. Ben's spot on about the case, and really, everything else he noted.
Thank you for this beautifully shot and presented review. I have the bracelet version of the Bulova Lunar Pilot that I purchased pre-owned on ebay in late-2015 for $285 shipped. It's been a spectacular watch. The quality of the case, bracelet, dial and pushers are exceptional. The high-hat AR-coated sapphire crystal is unique. People criticize its 45mm case, but that movement is almost 35mm in diameter. It fits perfectly on my 8" wrist.
Awesome Ben, this was the 2nd watch I purchased, as I am new to watch collecting. It serves as my dress watch. It is a real beauty, I have it in blue. The sweep on the second hand is a sight to behold. My son works for Rolex and he calls it my "cheater" since it not an automatic.
Glad to see a Bulova product getting such an attentive and thoughtful review - I speak as an Aerojet owner (simple model, 3 years old). Unfortunately, Bulova also churns out a lot of useless dreck - which diminishes the reputation of the brand.
You forget that Bulova gave us the Accutron back in the 60s with the 320 beats per second which puts this smooth tick into the weeds completely! Also for £300 you can still buy an vintage working Accutron.
I loved these even years ago when I first saw this movement used in a Bulova. The crystal has always been a hold up though…that, and he fact that I know these seem to have a much lower battery life than a normal quartz watch because of the higher frequency of the second hand. I would be so fine with this if it had a Sapphire crystal though, and get over the slightly more frequent battery changes, and I could just change out the cheap strap. I feel like the move of Bulova to keep this one more affordable with the more basic case finishes and the mineral crystal are actually what kind of make it less known. Maybe if this one moved a bit higher up market (not by much, mind you, still under $500), and offered a more refined case with sapphire crystal and maybe better lume, it would be more popular.
There is a version of it with a sapphire crystal: Bulova 98B319 (Grammy special edition). Shame it's also too gaudy for my taste, would've loved the one Ben presented with similar specs.
Actually any quartz watch, being much higher frequency than a mechanical one (32,000 Hz vs 4 Hz), can have a smoothly flowing seconds hand. However, they typically have a seconds hand that ticks only once per second and doesn't flow like the Bulova. That's because ticking just once per second saves battery life, which is why the Bulova likely has a shorter battery life. And I actually have the Grammy edition noted above. The crystal is not only sapphire, but it's has a slight convex curve to it.
@@davidc5191 also I’m very well aware of how quartz and mechanical watches work. I have a few dozen watches at this point an work as an engineer. I’m too much of a dork to not have figured out how they work 😂
@@charredhusk Don't get your dander up. I wasn't criticizing you. I was just providing additional context to your post for readers who may not be as well informed.
I have one of those watches. I got mine for $40 used, then went and bought a replacement strap as the stock strap was pretty bad. One of my favorite work watches, and a steal at $80 including the replacement strap. IMO, Bulova has botched the marketing of the Precisionist. This model is the only one I really like. Most of the Precisionist line are hideous looking watches. Maybe Bulova should look back at some of its vintage watches for inspiration.
They definitely are polarizing. Howeverxi love my brass and blue dial chronograph with a 300m water rating. Definitely not for anyone but definitely different.
I agree. This model is the only decent looking one of the entire line, as I had only ever heard of the precisionist watches by seeing those gaudy overbuilt leviathans with ugly color combinations and dials so cluttered youd swear a child's bedroom was more tidy by comparison. Turned me off to the brand for a LONG time until I saw these nicer looking pieces. And not gonna lie, if they went with a more vintage, dressy aesthetic for the line, I'd snap them up in a heartbeat
Bulova really has blown it with the marketing of this watch. Most of the models look like the worst Invictas. I got my Precisionist used for less than $150 and it's the best bargain in my collection. A quartz watch with a sweep better than most high beat automatics. Fortunately it's the brown version of the dial in Ben's video..
I was able to pick up the Blue precisionist on Amazon for 130 on sale and im beyond happy with it. I like the simplistic look and sunburst dial. Highly recommend this watch if you can get it for 150 or less.
The statement that Bulova blew it is being kind. They sold a line of watches under the Accutron II name a few years ago, they were 3 handers and a few chronographs in 42mm cases (smaller than the Precisionist reviewed here) but with the same smooth sweep second hand. The main model was the Surveyor, it came in many colorways. They killed the line around 2016/17 and both movements died with them best I can tell. I own a Surveyor, wonderful watch but it never seemed to get traction in the market. They had a unique movement that was relatively small and inexpensive, especially when compared to Seiko's Spring Drive. Ciitzen has been doing it's best to damage Bulova the last few years.
I have this exact watch - purchased from the Citizen Factory store in Toronto for a whopping C$150 (just under 100GBP) - don't wear it as often as I like, but enjoy it when I do.
same movement in Lunar Pilot I believe. interesting you mention Grand Seiko, they love quartz...GS quartz movements are amazing but always wondered why they don't develop a smoother action like this. perhaps it would show up their hi-beat. oh and this is smooth but not as smooth as my old Omega F300hz tuning fork movement (also made by Bulova). Regret selling that one!
This is the only channel where I don’t mind watching through the sponsored ads! 🤣 Would definitely hunt this watch down if it came with 38-40mm variants!
Managed to get one for just over $100 at a Sam's Club a few years back. At that price, it makes for a great dressy watch for travel or when I don't want to worry about checking the accuracy. Or when I don't want something expensive on my wrist. I love it.
I bought this same model about 2 years ago. The time was set 2 weeks after I bought it and wore it 15-20% throughout the year. At 1 year and 3 days, I observed +6 seconds against the same time standard. So, one data point confirms the claim - remarkable! My 2 cents...
3:36 Am I missing something? Are the frequency and beat rate really that closely related? The 262 kHz is just referencing the oscillation of the quartz crystal. Even a standard quartz crystal is still 32ish kHz, which is plenty of resolution to handle a measly 16 Hz second hand step.
The sweeping hand harks back to the accutron days, but they were genuine tuning fork watches that give off a pleasing audible humming sound. These were proper Bulovas made in American I have two of them, if you think this 262 movement is something special, you need to check out the 1960s accutron technology, they were so accurate NASA used them in the Apollo missions.
The original Accutron was accurate to around 1 minute a month, that was fantastic for it's day. But, these 262kHz movements are accurate to within 1 minute a year, often much better than that (my four 262kHz Bulovas are closer to +30 sec/yr). The 262kHz movement is a worthy successor to the original. As for battery life, mine get between 2-4 yrs. on a battery so that's nothing shabby in my book.
I too have this watch. Put it on a grey suede band and moved the stock Bulova tang and buckle to it. This one is clearly all about the movement. The watch design, from the case to the dial to the hands are all kinda 'ehhhh' (but compared to most of the Precisionist line, it looks like a million bucks). But there's nothing smoother on the second hand sweep close to it this side of a Spring Drive, which makes it worth it.
I owned this watch. It was a very accurate and cool watch. I ended up selling it because while it was very nice, I ended up not wearing it that much. It was very thin, and I just found it slightly cheap feeling. It kept very accurate time and I can’t stress enough that this movement is awesome!
And you haven't got that inherent problem with quartz where the minute hand doesn't align with the indices. I thought the end of the seconds hand looked like scissors 🤔
This watch is a steal! I bought it for the amazing movement of course! And the dial is very cool and classy. I'd like make a few observations. One, the spiral pattern on the gun powder color dial is similar to (not saying exactly) the inside of a gun barrel and looks 007-ish. Two, the hour hand appears to be the hallmark tuning fork especially at certain angles which is a subtle design feature. Lastly, the placement of the infinity symbol as a counterweight on the second hand is quite cleaver because it appears directly above the "262 kHz" when the second hand is at the 12, which is where the symbol would be had it been printed on the dial. Reference the Jet Star dial. Agree or disagree? Just no hate.
How long does its battery hold if it does the sweep all the time? I have the Lunar Pilot and if I were to leave the sweeping chrono hand running it probably wouldn't last a week...
I have a couple of Rolex watches along with other Swiss brands. I have an old Bulova accutron, which in my mind, is a true sweep. Then I came across the Bulova Precisionist. I try to keep my collection from exceeding 50 watches. I keep my six current favorites in a watch box in my dressing area. Three of them are Bulova Precisionists.
This definitely looks better on here than on the product listings I've seen. I'd skip straight past that piece with how it looks online. Bulova keep coming up in my search for nice watches but I've always read poor reviews so haven't ever gone for one.
Common, the floating hour markers are in my Casio Oceanus. You have to have heard about it. It looks like a copy of the Oceanus only that my Oceanus is accurate to 1/1000 of a second per year. The Oceanus will also adjust itself when daylight savings change.
I have a couple of Bulova Accutron II's with a variant of this movement, with a fresh battery they will run at +/- 0.5 of a second a month. Mine are both due for a battery change so are running at only +/- 1 second a month. The Accutron II's tend to be much prettier watches than the precisionist range & are still available for £150-500 on Ebay.
Nice review Ben. I have the Blue color way. I was looking for this watch since before covid. I liked the dial and I thought it was raised. I love the sweeping seconds hand! I also have Accutron SpaceVeiw. I was living in North Carolina at the time and I went into a local department store to check out the watch counter. I saw it! 96B159 with the bracelet. I asked to see it. The sales person did some calculations on the calculator, $268. Hummm? She did some calculations with "Coupons". $229, "Much More Better". To make a long story short; She scanned the tag on the watch, and it came up "Discontinued". Total: 127!!! "Sold"!! It does not wear well; Male End links; No watch is perfect. (Except: Omega Seamaster '57 Reissue)
I looked up that movement and I wish companies would spend more time beautifying their quartz movements so they could have a display case back. We really don't see that often.
have you not seen a FC slimline monolithic manufacture?! it's a fully mechanical movement that has a smoother sweep at 40Hz. that's 80 tiny seconds hand movements each second, for the uninitiated
I have a Bulova futuro, it uses a cheaper citizen movement and doesn't have a sweep this nice. Unfortunately it was a gift and didn't come with spare links and after weight loss I can't wear it without it flipping upside down. I now just wear a Seikomod I built, it's a homage to a Rolex Pepsi but with different dial from an SKX and 3rd party hands. I also put a 60 minute bezel because it isn't 24 hours.
I'd like to see this movement being used more widely, why not by San Martin in a Grand Seiko "hommage/inspiration" styled watch. The only drawback, in these high beating quartz movement is that the battery doesn't last long, 2-3 years, not that bad to be honest, but maybe in future a combination with solar cells might be the perfect solution.
Cool looking watch. 10 seconds a year quite impressive. But to my eye, a quartz sec hand that ticks more than once a second doesn’t look any better or convey any tangible improvement.
I have had this watch since it came out and has been my go to since then. If only that lume was just a little bit better, it would have been my perfect watch.
I was never a fun of the precisionist line primarily due to their desigh. But I do like the accutron ii line and in fact I own two of those, one of the 'surveyor' models and another military style... can't remember the reference number any more. Both beautiful watches with minimal looks and that awesome sweep!
What a great eye you have. Do they resell this movement--is it available to other vendors? I see that so many Chinese vendors have jumped into the automatic game but in AliExpress comments I also see that quite a few buyers end up disappointed. Maybe they should use more quartz instead?
Trade off super accurate watch affordable to most people. I have several. The accuracy is amazing for the price. Don’t know of many watches that can compare to its accuracy.
The precisionist watches are beautiful. They don't get much love, but they deserve it for their accuracy, affordability, smooth hand, and excellent finishing(Atleast on the dials) . I get that some of the dials, especially on the precisionist chronographs, are overdesigned, clunky, and busy. But these are great in my opinion. They could definitely use a few more classic/simple designs. But I'll always cherish the precisionists I've owned. The curv line also has a few gems, with stunning bracelets and finishing, it really shook me buying the 98A158, which you can get on ebay for sub $300. Definitely worth it. Curved movement, finishing that you'd expect on entry/mid level Swiss pieces like Hamilton, Mido, Rado etc.
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AFFILIATE PRODUCT LINK: geni.us/bulova96b158
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This is an April Fool's joke, isn't it? If not I can't believe it.
Nope this is not a joke
@@NyChi845 Must be.
Highly priced
@@AMD7027 I disagree with the clickbait claim here, it's literally stating a fact pal. Who said it was new either?
Bulova needs to sell this movement to any watch company who wants it. I’d swap out some of my cheap mechanical watches with this movement.
While that's be nice, their parent company, Ci, wouldn't want to take the hit. And it'd be hell for Grand Seiko Spring drive to compete with. It's basically "intellectual property". The Tuning Quartz is Bulova's Holy grail item, as to Seiko's Spring Drive.
@@yeejay6396 But Bulova doesn’t know how to take advantage of this holy grail. Their designs sucks! There is not a single watch that I find pretty in this precisionist movement.
Maybe the only way is to buy their cheapest watch and take the movement out :/
This particular watch has been on my wishlist for months. I actually met someone at work who had one, and it was as beautiful as I expected.
I own two Bulova Precisionist watches, and so far I’ve had no problems with either one. They both are well finished, and keeping perfect time. I’d highly recommend them. They have the smoothest running second hand that I have personally seen.
If there are no problems with them, why would you need 2? Not meaning any offense here.
@@marleneprokopetz1857No problems and perfect are not the same.
@@marleneprokopetz1857Ever heard of watch collectors?
I have 2 as well. And it’s not because they unreliable. It’s because I like them so much. I’ve had them both over 10 years and never had an issue with either of them. Don’t believe the BS. Take it from someone who owns 2 of them and has worn them both for a long time. Bulova is quality. And nothing will outweigh my own experience. Not to mention at least.
@@marleneprokopetz1857Different colours
I've had a similar model (96B257) for a few years now and it's excellent. I'm surprised that it hasn't gotten more love, although I expect that the "Precisionist" name is overshadowed by the huge, gaudy, and overly busy chronograph models that share the label. Thank you for spotlighting this far more appealing version. I expect that as Grand Seiko continues to rise in popularity, these will become harder to find as people try to scratch the spring drive itch.
Those interested in this watch because of its distinctive sweep should consider the 96B257 as well. Its blue, sunburst dial is a little simpler than the version featured here, but it has skeletonized hour and minute hands and stepped indices that add some intricacy. It also has a more accessible caseback and 100m of water resistance. I haven't changed out its leather strap, which is fine, but these specs may lend it to more sporty use than this model--especially since its similarly large size may make it a bit of a challenge to pull off as a dress watch. The lume is equally terrible though.
One final bit of advice: I recommend setting up an eBay saved search for the model number you want and giving it time. The bulk of the 96B257 watches that tend to come up sell at around $250, but every once in a while you'll see a heavily discounted one pop up (I see one for sale right now for just over $150, and it looks just as good as the other examples that are out there).
This tip actually worked! I had one on my watchlist and then I get an email that the seller dropped the price, I immediately ordered a "factory refurbished" 98B267 for $85
With an aftermarket strap you cna dress just about any watch up or down. I'd look into Perlon, Zulu or even NATO straps. They come in all types of variations and materials.
I've been thinking about Boluva lately. I've never seen such a great movement wasted in such bad watches. If they sold the movement to micro brands imagine the sapphire crystal dive watches with that sweep second hand!
Amen 🙏
Amen x2 !🙏
Actually, all I'd want is a Seiko SNXS79J1 that would feature a solar powered Quartz movement (like a Casio Wave Ceptor LCW-M170D-1AER) with sweeping seconds hand tech (like this Bulova Precisionist or a Seiko VH31) and multiband/radiographic atomic time (also like that Casio). Not too much to ask, come on now! 😂🤭
True
It's like easy money. Why the hell doesn't someone just do it..
Totally agree. I love the movement but don’t care for any of the watches they put it in.
I have the Precisionist 97B186 and absolutely love it. The sweep is second to none and a 300m diver depth out of a chronograph is amazing. It is a big watch though and the color combination can be of putting for some, but I think it's a great watch added to the collection. I looked very hard at the one Been covered but decided to go for the chronograph instead.
Found this for £80 in Tk-max a few years back. Removed the strap when I got home and mounted a steel mesh bracelet and honestly it is sensational. Cannot believe how many people ask me about the watch.
That’s actually such a ridiculously good deal, Tk-max is one of the most underrated stores out here
@@deez8736 It really is. Yes, they have a lot of brands that are just overpriced fashion brands, but I found a lot of good deals for Hamilton, Citizen, Seiko, etc. You just have to pay attention and see through the garbage.
Hey can you check if you can find this watch for me? Im trying to look for it but its inflated alot.
If they make it in a sub 40mm diameter I'm in.
Real men have big wrists
@@povertyspec9651 Real men don't have to wear a wall clock on their wrist to compensate for their tiny pecker. I'm not legally blind, I don't have to wear a giant watch to see what time it is. By the time I'm that old and blind, I won't need to know what time it is.
@@povertyspec9651or you’re overweight
@@povertyspec9651 real man have balls, cornball!
@@povertyspec9651what should I do then
They made some nice watches with this movement, many retro inspired (I have a "military" one), but then they discontinued most of them. Why? It has a short battery life they say but still...It's Spring Drive smooth. I bet some micro brands would have liked that movement. Most of Bulova's catalog consists of comically busy chronographs with hex nuts, colors, teeny tiny printing, honeycombs, enormous cases...you get the picture. Who is their market? Come on Bulova- bring back that movement, tap into your vintage back catalog and stop making hideous monstrosities. Someone put me in charge of Bulova already!
I have the military one too, Bulova 96b229, great looking watch with sweeping second hand and coin edge bezel, crazy accurate ,they should rerelease that very underated.
also had one of their Nightawk chronographs, way way too big.r
They've put the same movement in the Bulova Lunar Pilot, but it only powers the chronograph sweep. The running seconds sweep runs at 2hz.
The Lunar Pilot is refreshingly understated, and one almost could say has a "Swiss Sensibility" since it was literally modeled after a Speedmaster Professional in the hopes that NASA would replace their Omegas with Bulova's. Bulova even purchased a Swiss company to make the original mechanical versions for them. It's how a Bulova prototype ended up on the Moon with CMDR David Scott in 1971.
The problem is that the 3 hand Precisionist has a pretty hefty current draw because the second hand is engaged 24/7. When they use it on a Chronograph movement, then it's only on when the chronograph is running (an hour at a time). Thus the battery life is conserved quite a bit.
The distinctive "tick" of a quartz movement has always been due to power management. Especially in the early 70's when Quartz was first developed.
At that time, most quartz watches had an expected battery life of 1 to 2 years, and if manufacturer's had put in a stepper motor that would have simulated the sweep on a 28,800 BPH mechanical, it would cause the stepper motor on the quartz watch to cycle 4 times more often. No one wanted to replace a battery every 3 to 6 months. So the standard "1hz" tick was adopted to maximize battery life.
Since then mechanical watch snobs have used the "tick" as a point of derision. Complaining that they prefer the motion of a mechanical watch, or complaining when the second hand doesn't stop precisely on the index marker. Basically a way to justify why they turn their nose up at a watch that is a fraction of the cost of an automatic and is 10X more accurate.
Is a smooth second hand nice? Sure. But is it worth replacing your battery 4 times more often? If your watch has any water resistance at all, I'd say no.
Since Bulova is owned by the Citizen group, perhaps Eco Drive will evolve to the point that an Eco Drive watch could drive a 4hz stepper motor and provide a high beat sweep. That would be nice. Then we wouldn't have to worry about the battery. If the Eco-Drive accumulator ever got low, say 60%, then it could go into "power saver mode" and click at 1hz like a standard quartz, and then if it got really low, go to 2hz or 4hz like they already do.
In the meantime, I let the mechanical watch snobs have their "smooth" second hand. I have several automatics and love a good automatic movement when it's appropriate (like in a skeleton movement, or vintage WWII hack watch, etc.) but for daily wear, nothing beats the accuracy or grab and go functionality of a quartz.
And after all, the primary function of a watch, is to keep time.
@@williamthomas6106 I love the Lunar Pilot. It's a bit large on my dainty wrist, so it's not a daily wear for me, but I enjoy owning it, I guess. I really thought the introduction of Lunar Pilot would be a comeback for Bulova - with the good publicity the original watch generated. I feel like Bulova has done very little other than the reintroduction of Lunar Pilot, which people who are interested bought already. Then people like me went through their catalogue and came up with the same conclusion @Christopher Hawkins that the rest of the watches are comically hideous.
What I find truly baffling is the kinds of watches they are selling with this movement. There's a reason that radio control, solar, and other such tech is found in a G-Shock and not a JLC. I can't imagine how putting a bulky precision quartz movement (that presumably eats batteries) into a dress watch sounded like a great idea to them. They did the same thing with their 0100 limited edition. Even S pring Drives get bought despite the bulk, not because of it. If they took one of their everyday sporty designs, adjust them to fit the movement while remaining as small as possible, and released it as the Precisionist Edition, they would be laughing all the way to the bank.
Fast forward to today, and you get the Jet Star. Someone listened.
I had one of these when they came out. 96B128
Strap was a bit shonky but the dial was beautiful, super accurate and was only about one hundred quid.
Thanks for making me regret selling it
I have this watch and it is just amazing! Such fun to watch and great great quality. Got a nice rubber strap attached and love it. A shame that Bulova went in strange ways with the other models, but this is stunning
The Seiko movement VH31 also has a sweeping second hand. (Quartz oscillation ~32khz). As the sweeping motion drains the battery faster, Seiko or Citizen/Bulova should combine these quartz movements with their solar technology.
The quartz oscillation in the Precisionist is much higher and has other features differing it from a traditional quartz movement. True, any traditional 32Khz watch can be made to sweep at any rate but was reduced to once a second due to battery usage, as you mentioned. I agree with you on the solar aspect, as this technology has much improved.
Idk Ben I'd bet that my guess of $300 is a reasonably accurate and correct guess lol. Great video keep up the great work brother 👍.
There's a very similar blue precisionist on Amazon rn for $178. I have been waiting for the perfect affordable Precisionist for about four years, but alas this is too large and too stylistically distinctive. The only thing I can say is that the design isn't absolutely horrible like the majority of other Precisionists which is not to say it is entirely pleasing. Bulova, Bulova . . . so much potential.
I love that smooth second hand, though. Only Grand Seiko can compete.
@@KabobHope anybody that wants to "compete" can. They simply just need to commit resources to developing a high frequency quartz movement. Any mid tier or even entry level brands easily have the pockets and means to do so. I just don't think anybody wants to.
I got one about a year ago and it’s been pretty great. I wasn’t used to the light weight as all my other watches are automatic but it looks and feels amazing.
My wife bought me this as a birthday gift TODAY! AND I LOVE IT!! That smooth movement... Is hypnotic.
This is my daily watch. Worn for over 2 1/2yrs it looks smart, keeps perfect time and wears well on a dark olive green Nato strap. A recent motor cycle crash put scratches on upper case bezel which can be polished out. Like the watch very much. Look forward to keeping it around for a long time.
I own this watch, bought a replacement leather strap and a mesh strap, and it's a very good dress piece. Great review, and I completely agree with your take.
I’ve heard mixed things on bulova, but it turns out ive had one, kinda, for about 10
Years. Bought a caravelle off amazon when i graduated middle school. Its been great and reliable. Got it for $15 and it hasn’t failed me
The Bulova blue lobster 96B232, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful with this movement.
I had a hard time finding one at a normal price.
I have this watch with blue dial and I love it.
I have this watch and really enjoy it. Very nice polishing on the indices, and the dial doesn't look as busy from a foot or two away. Ben's spot on about the case, and really, everything else he noted.
Thank you for this beautifully shot and presented review. I have the bracelet version of the Bulova Lunar Pilot that I purchased pre-owned on ebay in late-2015 for $285 shipped. It's been a spectacular watch.
The quality of the case, bracelet, dial and pushers are exceptional. The high-hat AR-coated sapphire crystal is unique. People criticize its 45mm case, but that movement is almost 35mm in diameter. It fits perfectly on my 8" wrist.
love that Bulova movement! Looks so good in action
SMOOTH OPERATORRRRRR
Nice review bud, I went for the Precisionist X model which I love. It looks way better in real life than in the pics on websites. And it's a beast!
Awesome Ben, this was the 2nd watch I purchased, as I am new to watch collecting. It serves as my dress watch. It is a real beauty, I have it in blue. The sweep on the second hand is a sight to behold. My son works for Rolex and he calls it my "cheater" since it not an automatic.
Glad to see a Bulova product getting such an attentive and thoughtful review - I speak as an Aerojet owner (simple model, 3 years old). Unfortunately, Bulova also churns out a lot of useless dreck - which diminishes the reputation of the brand.
You forget that Bulova gave us the Accutron back in the 60s with the 320 beats per second which puts this smooth tick into the weeds completely! Also for £300 you can still buy an vintage working Accutron.
I loved these even years ago when I first saw this movement used in a Bulova. The crystal has always been a hold up though…that, and he fact that I know these seem to have a much lower battery life than a normal quartz watch because of the higher frequency of the second hand.
I would be so fine with this if it had a Sapphire crystal though, and get over the slightly more frequent battery changes, and I could just change out the cheap strap.
I feel like the move of Bulova to keep this one more affordable with the more basic case finishes and the mineral crystal are actually what kind of make it less known. Maybe if this one moved a bit higher up market (not by much, mind you, still under $500), and offered a more refined case with sapphire crystal and maybe better lume, it would be more popular.
There is a version of it with a sapphire crystal: Bulova 98B319 (Grammy special edition). Shame it's also too gaudy for my taste, would've loved the one Ben presented with similar specs.
Actually any quartz watch, being much higher frequency than a mechanical one (32,000 Hz vs 4 Hz), can have a smoothly flowing seconds hand. However, they typically have a seconds hand that ticks only once per second and doesn't flow like the Bulova. That's because ticking just once per second saves battery life, which is why the Bulova likely has a shorter battery life. And I actually have the Grammy edition noted above. The crystal is not only sapphire, but it's has a slight convex curve to it.
This is essentially what I said already though…?
@@davidc5191 also I’m very well aware of how quartz and mechanical watches work. I have a few dozen watches at this point an work as an engineer. I’m too much of a dork to not have figured out how they work 😂
@@charredhusk Don't get your dander up. I wasn't criticizing you. I was just providing additional context to your post for readers who may not be as well informed.
I have one of those watches. I got mine for $40 used, then went and bought a replacement strap as the stock strap was pretty bad. One of my favorite work watches, and a steal at $80 including the replacement strap.
IMO, Bulova has botched the marketing of the Precisionist. This model is the only one I really like. Most of the Precisionist line are hideous looking watches. Maybe Bulova should look back at some of its vintage watches for inspiration.
You seem like the kind of guy who would pay 10 bucks for a Moonswatch. Great deal!
@@AndreMonz I imagine those Moonswatches won't be discounted for a long time if recent interest is any indication.
I agree. I am impressed by the movement, but none of their designs strike my fancy.
They definitely are polarizing. Howeverxi love my brass and blue dial chronograph with a 300m water rating. Definitely not for anyone but definitely different.
I agree. This model is the only decent looking one of the entire line, as I had only ever heard of the precisionist watches by seeing those gaudy overbuilt leviathans with ugly color combinations and dials so cluttered youd swear a child's bedroom was more tidy by comparison.
Turned me off to the brand for a LONG time until I saw these nicer looking pieces.
And not gonna lie, if they went with a more vintage, dressy aesthetic for the line, I'd snap them up in a heartbeat
Bulova really has blown it with the marketing of this watch. Most of the models look like the worst Invictas. I got my Precisionist used for less than $150 and it's the best bargain in my collection. A quartz watch with a sweep better than most high beat automatics. Fortunately it's the brown version of the dial in Ben's video..
I was able to pick up the Blue precisionist on Amazon for 130 on sale and im beyond happy with it. I like the simplistic look and sunburst dial. Highly recommend this watch if you can get it for 150 or less.
The statement that Bulova blew it is being kind.
They sold a line of watches under the Accutron II name a few years ago, they were 3 handers and a few chronographs in 42mm cases (smaller than the Precisionist reviewed here) but with the same smooth sweep second hand. The main model was the Surveyor, it came in many colorways. They killed the line around 2016/17 and both movements died with them best I can tell. I own a Surveyor, wonderful watch but it never seemed to get traction in the market.
They had a unique movement that was relatively small and inexpensive, especially when compared to Seiko's Spring Drive. Ciitzen has been doing it's best to damage Bulova the last few years.
I have the gold rose as well....it is gorgeous and it has a 100m water rating rather than 50m of the black version
I have this exact watch - purchased from the Citizen Factory store in Toronto for a whopping C$150 (just under 100GBP) - don't wear it as often as I like, but enjoy it when I do.
Hey can you check if that watch is available anywhere around you? I'm looking for it but csnt find it
I've owned mine for 7 years and it's still looking great
How long is battery life?
I was looking at this watch yesterday. BUTTERY smooth sweep.
I bought one a few years ago. Precision is right. Such a beauty.
same movement in Lunar Pilot I believe. interesting you mention Grand Seiko, they love quartz...GS quartz movements are amazing but always wondered why they don't develop a smoother action like this. perhaps it would show up their hi-beat. oh and this is smooth but not as smooth as my old Omega F300hz tuning fork movement (also made by Bulova). Regret selling that one!
This is the only channel where I don’t mind watching through the sponsored ads! 🤣
Would definitely hunt this watch down if it came with 38-40mm variants!
Managed to get one for just over $100 at a Sam's Club a few years back. At that price, it makes for a great dressy watch for travel or when I don't want to worry about checking the accuracy. Or when I don't want something expensive on my wrist. I love it.
The dial and hands give me BALL vibes, it clicked when I saw the lume shot. Very cool affordable option!
I absolutely love my 96B130 Precisionist. Super classy, super accurate, super smooth sweep. What's not to love?
Just got this watch and I'm liking it a lot.
I’ve had Precisionist watch for several years now. It’s great! It’s extremely accurate. Love it.
I have this watch and it's one of my favorite pieces. Accurate and classy.
I bought this same model about 2 years ago. The time was set 2 weeks after I bought it and wore it 15-20% throughout the year. At 1 year and 3 days, I observed +6 seconds against the same time standard. So, one data point confirms the claim - remarkable! My 2 cents...
3:36 Am I missing something? Are the frequency and beat rate really that closely related?
The 262 kHz is just referencing the oscillation of the quartz crystal. Even a standard quartz crystal is still 32ish kHz, which is plenty of resolution to handle a measly 16 Hz second hand step.
The sweeping hand harks back to the accutron days, but they were genuine tuning fork watches that give off a pleasing audible humming sound. These were proper Bulovas made in American I have two of them, if you think this 262 movement is something special, you need to check out the 1960s accutron technology, they were so accurate NASA used them in the Apollo missions.
The original Accutron was accurate to around 1 minute a month, that was fantastic for it's day. But, these 262kHz movements are accurate to within 1 minute a year, often much better than that (my four 262kHz Bulovas are closer to +30 sec/yr). The 262kHz movement is a worthy successor to the original.
As for battery life, mine get between 2-4 yrs. on a battery so that's nothing shabby in my book.
I don’t like the size or mineral crystal, but I might buy it just to get a $300 Spring Drive.
Throw it on a nato or mesh bracelet, it might look okay.
These precisionists are great across the board. They are on my radar.
I too have this watch. Put it on a grey suede band and moved the stock Bulova tang and buckle to it. This one is clearly all about the movement. The watch design, from the case to the dial to the hands are all kinda 'ehhhh' (but compared to most of the Precisionist line, it looks like a million bucks). But there's nothing smoother on the second hand sweep close to it this side of a Spring Drive, which makes it worth it.
This is my favorite dress watch in my collection. I have the same one he is showing.
I owned this watch. It was a very accurate and cool watch. I ended up selling it because while it was very nice, I ended up not wearing it that much. It was very thin, and I just found it slightly cheap feeling. It kept very accurate time and I can’t stress enough that this movement is awesome!
Agreed. It felt hollow to me. I sold it when something better came along.
The thin case is a net positive to me. Especially since the case is rather large for a dressy watch.
Wearing my Grey/rose gold precisionist now and it's a favorite!
I've had mine for 6 years and wear it nearly everyday. Only recently had to change the battery for the first time.
I have this exact model. Got it cheap from Mass Drop (Drop) back when they still did watches. Great little watch that doesn't get enough wrist time.
I have the Bulova Lunar Pilot in black. One if their top watches, with heritage and a insanely accurate movement. A watch afficiendo watch.
And you haven't got that inherent problem with quartz where the minute hand doesn't align with the indices. I thought the end of the seconds hand looked like scissors 🤔
Anyone know if there's an aftermarket sapphire crystal for it?
Thanks for jacking up the prices on a watch I was waiting for my birthday to buy, man.
Great review Ben. I have this exact watch and really like it. No issues with mine.
Got mine last year new from a retail store minus the box for $140
This watch is a steal! I bought it for the amazing movement of course! And the dial is very cool and classy. I'd like make a few observations. One, the spiral pattern on the gun powder color dial is similar to (not saying exactly) the inside of a gun barrel and looks 007-ish. Two, the hour hand appears to be the hallmark tuning fork especially at certain angles which is a subtle design feature. Lastly, the placement of the infinity symbol as a counterweight on the second hand is quite cleaver because it appears directly above the "262 kHz" when the second hand is at the 12, which is where the symbol would be had it been printed on the dial. Reference the Jet Star dial. Agree or disagree? Just no hate.
Hello Ben I have a similar Bulova, 96b129 Precisionist Claremont, and it is great too! The glass is a quite curved and the sphere is distinguished!
I love Bulova. I want to get one.
How long does its battery hold if it does the sweep all the time? I have the Lunar Pilot and if I were to leave the sweeping chrono hand running it probably wouldn't last a week...
They use a big battery about twice the normal size & it only lasts about a year, that's the drawback of these movements
I have a couple of Rolex watches along with other Swiss brands. I have an old Bulova accutron, which in my mind, is a true sweep. Then I came across the Bulova Precisionist. I try to keep my collection from exceeding 50 watches. I keep my six current favorites in a watch box in my dressing area. Three of them are Bulova Precisionists.
I have a Bulova Precisionist and I love it. I call it my poor man's GS Spring Drive. 🤣
I love the dial. Unfortunately, 40mm is my max size.
Why do some of these watch’s have the tuning fork at 12’ and others don’t?
This definitely looks better on here than on the product listings I've seen. I'd skip straight past that piece with how it looks online.
Bulova keep coming up in my search for nice watches but I've always read poor reviews so haven't ever gone for one.
Common, the floating hour markers are in my Casio Oceanus. You have to have heard about it. It looks like a copy of the Oceanus only that my Oceanus is accurate to 1/1000 of a second per year. The Oceanus will also adjust itself when daylight savings change.
I have a couple of Bulova Accutron II's with a variant of this movement, with a fresh battery they will run at +/- 0.5 of a second a month. Mine are both due for a battery change so are running at only +/- 1 second a month. The Accutron II's tend to be much prettier watches than the precisionist range & are still available for £150-500 on Ebay.
Have one of these arriving in next few days. They definitely need to expand the movement into other watches
I have this one and love it.
You should have a look at the 96B257. I love mine. The blue is great. I think it's a bit smaller. Also a cleaner look.
Nice review Ben. I have the Blue color way. I was looking for this watch since before covid. I liked the dial and I thought it was raised. I love the sweeping seconds hand! I also have Accutron SpaceVeiw. I was living in North Carolina at the time and I went into a local department store to check out the watch counter. I saw it! 96B159 with the bracelet. I asked to see it. The sales person did some calculations on the calculator, $268. Hummm? She did some calculations with "Coupons". $229, "Much More Better". To make a long story short; She scanned the tag on the watch, and it came up "Discontinued". Total: 127!!! "Sold"!! It does not wear well; Male End links; No watch is perfect. (Except: Omega Seamaster '57 Reissue)
That's a fabulous, intricate review. THANK YOU
I bought one a couple years ago for around $200. it's super accurate and great watch for the money
I personally love Bulova. They are great watches. I rock them out. I wear the timex for work.
Love my bulova 96b230! Best sweep ever!
I looked up that movement and I wish companies would spend more time beautifying their quartz movements so they could have a display case back. We really don't see that often.
I've wanted one of these for a long time.
have you not seen a FC slimline monolithic manufacture?! it's a fully mechanical movement that has a smoother sweep at 40Hz. that's 80 tiny seconds hand movements each second, for the uninitiated
I had 98B167 (white catmount diver). It looked weird and was a bit big for me but I loved it. Regret selling. Will defineyely buy it back.
hate the watch, love the movement! we need more of these!
I have a Bulova futuro, it uses a cheaper citizen movement and doesn't have a sweep this nice. Unfortunately it was a gift and didn't come with spare links and after weight loss I can't wear it without it flipping upside down.
I now just wear a Seikomod I built, it's a homage to a Rolex Pepsi but with different dial from an SKX and 3rd party hands. I also put a 60 minute bezel because it isn't 24 hours.
I'd like to see this movement being used more widely, why not by San Martin in a Grand Seiko "hommage/inspiration" styled watch. The only drawback, in these high beating quartz movement is that the battery doesn't last long, 2-3 years, not that bad to be honest, but maybe in future a combination with solar cells might be the perfect solution.
Cool looking watch. 10 seconds a year quite impressive. But to my eye, a quartz sec hand that ticks more than once a second doesn’t look any better or convey any tangible improvement.
I didn't even know you could make quartz with such a smooth sweep, are there any other models/movements like this?
I love the smooth sweep of this movement. I wish Casio would use it on the Duro dive watch.
What's that Bulova watch at 0:30 the one with the black dial??
I have the blue version of this. Put it on a bracelet. Looks great!
Check out the Bulova Precisionist 98b152, it's a good looking watch in my opinion, it suits my taste, and it has good movement
Like the old accutrons. I have 3 of those. Best sweep ever. Hummingbirds I call them
$300.00 Amazon!! may just order one. Great video
I have had this watch since it came out and has been my go to since then. If only that lume was just a little bit better, it would have been my perfect watch.
I was never a fun of the precisionist line primarily due to their desigh. But I do like the accutron ii line and in fact I own two of those, one of the 'surveyor' models and another military style... can't remember the reference number any more. Both beautiful watches with minimal looks and that awesome sweep!
What a great eye you have. Do they resell this movement--is it available to other vendors? I see that so many Chinese vendors have jumped into the automatic game but in AliExpress comments I also see that quite a few buyers end up disappointed. Maybe they should use more quartz instead?
Trade off super accurate watch affordable to most people. I have several. The accuracy is amazing for the price. Don’t know of many watches that can compare to its accuracy.
The precisionist watches are beautiful. They don't get much love, but they deserve it for their accuracy, affordability, smooth hand, and excellent finishing(Atleast on the dials) . I get that some of the dials, especially on the precisionist chronographs, are overdesigned, clunky, and busy. But these are great in my opinion. They could definitely use a few more classic/simple designs. But I'll always cherish the precisionists I've owned. The curv line also has a few gems, with stunning bracelets and finishing, it really shook me buying the 98A158, which you can get on ebay for sub $300. Definitely worth it. Curved movement, finishing that you'd expect on entry/mid level Swiss pieces like Hamilton, Mido, Rado etc.
Whats the difference between this and the linked to amazon? The amazon one doesnt have the "262 khz" label on the dial