Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 Military Watch Collection

Mach · 2022-01-14T16:24:36Z

Explore Mach's spontaneous acquisition and review of the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181. Discover strap challenges and community insights on this distinctive dive watch.

Mach

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

36 replies5027 views8 photos

Mach's spontaneous acquisition of the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 offers a compelling look into the unexpected joys of watch collecting. His detailed account, complete with personal photos, highlights the immediate connection collectors can feel with a new timepiece and the subsequent quest for the perfect strap. This article delves into Mach's journey, providing valuable insights for those considering this distinctive Bulova reference.

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I actually “accidentally” acquired this on December 19th. I was at a local mall finishing my Christmas shopping when I was surprised to see this in the display case:

This was the standard edition. I left and went to grab an espresso and debated whether I would take this or the LE. Since I was also acquiring my first Indie (Moser) and my first German (Hanhart), I decided to go with the standard edition and took her home with me:

I immediately started looking for a custom 16mm strap, which I discovered would be very difficult!

Well, I found one on EBay. Although I was hesitant, I decided to take the chance. It arrived Monday when I was out of town at a client engagement. Put it on this morning;

Mandatory lume shot for my friend @enjoythemusic:

HAGWE!

Mark

Key Points from the Discussion

The original Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 was a dive watch prototype from the 1950s, developed for the US Navy but never mass-produced. The modern reissue captures the spirit of this rare historical piece.
The challenge of finding a suitable 16mm custom strap for the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 is a common issue for collectors with watches featuring less common lug widths.
The limited edition (LE) version of the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 was highly sought after, with some collectors finding it difficult to acquire due to stock limitations.
Despite perceived stock issues in some regions, the limited edition was available directly from Bulova's official website at the time of the post.
The 'accidental' acquisition story of the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 parallels the accidental discovery of the weak adhesive used in Post-it notes, highlighting serendipitous events.
The chosen custom strap for the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 received positive feedback for its aesthetic appeal and how well it complements the watch.

The Discussion

Mach

Jan 14, 2022

But, inadvertently left Tropic out. Once again, I like your idea of the Bund strap, which looks great!

Jari from Finland

Jan 14, 2022

In my opinion you found a nice looking strap for it. Nice combo, enjoy.

grigo

Jan 15, 2022

I actually considered getting one, but the LE was out of stock already. So I hesitate and now wonder whether that is such a big deal?

Mach

Jan 15, 2022

It should be fine from , at least in my mind.

Mach

Jan 15, 2022

I was able to add it to my cart with no problem. It states “it stock.” So, hopefully, our friend grigo can still get the LE!

Mach

Jan 15, 2022

I can’t even pronounce my own name, Mark, with my Boston accent (hence, “Mach”)!

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Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 Military Watch Collection

Key Points from the Discussion

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