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There are certain watches that are so perfectly of their time, they serve as a portal back to a specific era. This Bulova, with its funky cushion case and bold design, is pure, unadulterated 1970s cool. It’s a fantastic example from a period of dramatic stylistic change, when watchmakers broke free from the constraints of the past to create designs that were audacious, modern, and just plain fun.
As the 1960s gave way to the 1970s, watch design underwent a revolution. The classic, round cases of the post-war era were replaced by a riot of new shapes, tonneau, square, and, as seen here, the iconic cushion case. Bulova, always with its finger on the pulse of American style, was at the forefront of this movement, producing some of the most memorable and stylish designs of the decade. This watch was for a new generation: confident, stylish, and ready to make a statement. Powering it is the reliable Bulova Caliber 11AOACD, a Swiss-made 17-jewel automatic movement with a convenient date function, proving that even with its bold new look, the brand never compromised on quality.
This particular example, a Reference 7313-2 dating to 1974 based on the “N4” code on its case back, is a stunning expression of ’70s swagger. The 36mm cushion case, finished in a warm gold electroplate, has a fantastic wrist presence. Its brushed, flowing lines and integrated lugs are a complete departure from earlier designs and feel incredibly comfortable on the wrist. The dial is a beautiful champagne sunburst, perfectly complementing the gold tone of the case. The applied hour markers are quintessential ’70s—bold, blocky, and featuring black inlays that match the simple, legible stick handset. It’s a clean, harmonious design that is both striking and easy to read.
The condition of this watch is truly excellent, a survivor from an era whose watches were often worn hard. The gold-plated case is in great shape, retaining its original brushed finish with only minor signs of honest wear. The champagne sunburst dial is exceptionally clean, with no significant marks or degradation. The hands and markers are crisp, and the date wheel is clean. This is a watch that was clearly well-cared for, and it presents beautifully.
