KMII shares his six-month impressions of the Bulova Accutron II, an experimental budget purchase to evaluate its aesthetics and performance before considering an original tuning fork model. He highlights the watch's impressive accuracy, design details, and unexpected attention it garners.
Six months ago I started a little budget experiment by buying an Accutron II to see how I like the optics and whether to go for an original or one of the tuning fork (Cal. 214) re-editions (the latter being a much more significant investment). While I have to admit it has not been on my wrist constantly, I have worn it enough for a quick summary of my impressions.
Citizen has been on a buying spree for a while and Bulova has been one of the targets. This has allowed an installment of Citizen's Precisionist movements in the Bulova watches - meaning higher grade quartz movements with a sweeping second, at least giving the impression of a mechanical watch (actually very much in line with the original tuning fork movements or a modern Spring Drive). All Precisionist movements have a much higher than usual quartz oscillation frequency of 262 kHz (instead of the regular 32 kHz), leading (as the name says) to a higher precision.
The larger ones are supposed to achieve close to Grand Seiko 9F level accuracy of 10-15 seconds a year, the smaller ones placed into Accutron II cases are somewhat less good in principle (rated at a fairly regular 10 secs a month).
Mine displayed a much better accuracy than the stated value, though. Being 5 seconds ahead in 6 months is a great value for a quartz, even if it does not quite reach the precision of my SBGX097. It is at least leagues better than my Breitling Aerospace.
Lots of small details have been sweated much more than is usual for a watch at this price level (basically costing a good lunch for two). The seconds hand counterweight is a nice tuning fork, the hour markers are nice round and large luminous dots (with a luminous tuning fork at 12), a sunburst finish on the metal part of the dial is a plus, different finishes on the case are unexpected and a very solid feeling of both the case and the deployant clasp, which both go way above the price level is a positive surprise.
Technically it does not only work with the circuit board cufflinks but also with semi formal outfits (as seen above)
One thing I also enjoy is the luminosity. The first half an hour it is as bright as pretty much any decent diving watch, then it slowly dims but manages sufficient legibility of both hands and the hour markers for a whole night, which is much more than usually gotten from watches in this price range.
The curved caseback also makes it sit securely on the wrist and provides a very comfortable fit.
Here a Blomman style shot. Technically it works quite well in summer. I would change the strap for more prolonged use, although it is not unpleasant. But a canvas strap would certainly work better than a leather one in the warmer months.
Funnily enough the watch gets a lot more attention than more expensive pieces. I have not worn it that often but been asked about it every single time - mostly by people seriously into watches. I would say the experiment has been a success so far, with the watch being pleasant to wear and - to the horror of fundamentailst mechanical movement proponents - comfortable in the sense of being very precise nad not needing adjustment. No date, either
Still not sure if a tuning fork version is next but I am happy with the Accutron for occassional wear.
About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGX097
The SBGX097 is a specific reference within a line of high-accuracy quartz watches, distinguished by its antimagnetic properties. This model was developed to offer enhanced resistance to magnetic fields, a practical feature for daily wear in various environments. It represents a particular focus on precision and durability, aligning with the brand's commitment to robust timekeeping instruments. The design maintains a classic aesthetic while incorporating advanced technical specifications for its movement.
This reference features a stainless steel case housing the 9F61 high-accuracy quartz caliber. The case measures 38.8mm in diameter, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. The movement is known for its precision, rated to +/- 10 seconds per year. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance. The construction emphasizes a blend of traditional watchmaking principles with modern material science.
For collectors, the SBGX097 appeals to those who value technical innovation within a conservative design framework. Its antimagnetic capabilities set it apart from standard quartz offerings, making it a notable piece for enthusiasts of practical engineering. The watch fits into the broader collection as an example of specialized functionality, offering a distinct proposition for those seeking a highly accurate and resilient timepiece.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 9F61
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 38.8mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
