Monday, June 29, 2009

Bulova's Accutron "Breckenridge".


(Sony DSC-F717 digital)
At the outset let me say that the current "Accutron" label has no connection with Bulova's patented electronic "tuning fork" technology of the 1960's. The only relationship is in the name and the logo.
The watch seen here - the Breckenridge - sports both (as can be seen on the dial).
However, behind that curved sapphire window and carbon-fibre pattern is a modern, Swiss-made, quartz chronograph movement.

The visible stand-out features of this watch include the curved crystal, the distinctive dial, the thickness and heftiness of the case and the tear-drop-shaped press buttons for the various functions.

Make no mistake about it - this is a solid chunk of stainless steel hanging off your wrist - the heavyweight case is matched by an equally hefty 20mm bracelet made of solid links and held together by a butterfly clasp, the whole assembly capable of anchoring the QE2.
If the Breckenridge fell into the wrong hands it could become a lethal weapon. I'd hate to get hit by it!

Yet appearances can be deceptive. This is a very comfortable watch to wear because its case has a maximum diameter of 40mm, including the crown. Thickness is 13mm.


(Sony DSC-F717 digital)
Functions include.....
  • Chronograph with 1/100th second accuracy; three sub-dials - for 60-seconds, 30-minutes and 12-hours; digital alarm; digital date; dual time (or second zone) feature; water resistant to 100 metres.
  • In addition, if you live in the USA and buy from a Bulova dealer, there is a 5-year warranty.

  • I was really smitten by this watch when I first saw it. I love the design of the face - not just the dial but the whole face - what you see when you look down at it......the bezel, the crown, the buttons......everything.
    It is far, FAR more appealing than any "diver".


    As well as looking great the watch also keeps excellent time. I haven't adjusted it since originally setting the time after it arrived from the USA just over a month ago and it is running within 30 seconds of actual AEST.

    I was very fortunate in being able to buy this watch for much less than what you will see touted around the internet. My Breckenridge was less than AUS$200 and I consider it worth every cent - a worthy descendant of the Accutrons of 40 years ago.
    Footnote:
    I assume that the name
    "Breckenridge" comes from the town in Colorado, USA, as I can find no other connection.

    5 comments:

    1. Wow! There's been an explosion of information on your blog recently Bruce, which makes for great reading.

      Keep up the good work!

      Rich.

      ReplyDelete
    2. Hi, Richard. Thanks for the comment.
      There are some interesting things out there - so many watches, so little time! :)

      ReplyDelete
    3. I really need a new band or like 3 links. Does anyone have any idea how to get this?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I just bought a junk one for just the band. i might have some extra links. email me trailblazer503@gmail.com and when i get the watch ill see if i have extra links

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      2. email me trailblazer503@gmail.com

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