InDebtButOnTime's detailed comparison of the Bulova MIL SHIPS Limited Edition and its non-limited counterpart offers invaluable insights for collectors weighing the nuances between two seemingly similar watches. His initial dilemma, rooted in movement preference and collector's instinct, provides a relatable starting point for understanding the subtle yet significant differences that define a watch's appeal and value. This exploration goes beyond specifications, delving into the subjective experience of ownership and the practical implications of horological choices.
When these came out I knew I had to have one, but which one. As a collector my first knee jerk reaction was the LE. But then I thought about how good my Miyota powered Bulova Devil Diver is. A very accurate
time keeper with good power reserve. Also I've always had some reservations with Sellita movements (vs ETA). Cost was also a consideration. So when wifie asked what I'd like for Christmas I said get me the non limited Bulova MIL SHIPS. But then the collector in me kept wondering if I was doing the right thing. Eventually I asked a close friend if he'd like to buy the Miyota version and he said yes.... so we then procured the LE. Now
I find myself somewhat preferring the Miyota version but wonder if keeping both might be where I end up (so much for cost considerations!).
The Miyota had been running at +5 to 8 seconds a day. As I feared the Sellita was not as accurate, more like +25 to 30 per day. The slower beat Miyota has a 42 hour reserve (I let it run out and it went to 45 hours).
The Sellita SW200 has a 38 hour power reserve which isn't surprising but isn't the main goal of higher beat movements better accuracy? A very skilled watchmaker friend said he'd keep the Miyota version and return
the Sellita powered LE because Sellitas are not exact copies of ETAs, some proprietary parts are hard to get and they are not as reliable as ETA movements. Here's some other comparitive observations:
The not so "super" luminova on these watches is barely adequate unless you are going directly from sunlight into a dark room which lessens the advantage of the LE's bezel being fully lumed (vs just the pip).
The non limited comes with a nicer strap. Its navy blue (subjective but I prefer the look) and has a leather reinforcing strip across the holes.
The copper colored printing of hash marks and numbers on the Miyota version catches light in low light conditions making it more readable in some situations. I also like the vintage-y look of it. Now, if the lume was
brighter this would be less of a factor.
Not saying Swiss Made at 6 o'clock gives the Miyota version a cleaner look to the dial.
The Miyota version's lower cost, less impressive back allows it to sit lower on your wrist... but not much and the LE's back does look superior. And of coarse it doesn't scream CHINA right in the center!
After you reach a certain number of pieces most boxes just become burdensome accessories. The non limited's box is a pretty good quality standard box (for a Bulova). The LE's is cute but plastic-y cheesy. it's certainly
not the machined aluminum crazy cool box that the U-Boat U-42s came in! Although both of those sitting next to each other would be an interesting book shelf conversation starter (oh, wait that friend of mine
now owns the U-42 I had!).
Thoughts?
Not sure what I'm going to do here but if you have either let me know about accuracy if you've checked yours. And also if you've had a Sellita powered watch that has had issues, I have found posts on line that
seem to confirm what my watchmaker said. I always hold his horological opinions in high regard but the plethora of experienced voices here hold weight too!
Somehow i fear that's where I might end up. Watch collecting is pure madness!
