Bulova Royal Oak-esque Watch: Gérald Genta Design History

LwC · 2026-05-20T22:46:54Z

Unearth the surprising 1970s Bulova watch resembling the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Explore its Gérald Genta design connection and market value.

LwC

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

6 replies532 views1 photos

LwC's discovery of a vintage Bulova advertisement resembling an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak has sparked considerable interest, especially given recent brand collaborations. This unexpected historical parallel prompts a deeper look into the design origins and market presence of this intriguing 1970s Bulova model. The community's discussion unearths fascinating details about its connection to the iconic Gérald Genta design.

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Amidst all the hoopla around the Swatch/AP collaboration release, I somehow came across this advertisement for a Bulova wristwatch that looks like a Royal Oak. With all the speculation and photoshopped images about what the Swatch/AP watch might look like, I thought it strange that someone might imagine a Bulova/AP collaboration in the 1970’s no less haha. Since the advertisement includes a Bulova model number, I chased it and learned that Bulova did in fact produce this model.

https://mybulova.com/watches/1979-model-442-01-025-5154?page=7

Key Points from the Discussion

The existence of a Bulova watch from the 1970s that closely resembles the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is a surprising revelation to many collectors.
A previous discussion on WatchProSite from 15 years prior also touched upon these Bulova pieces, indicating a long-standing curiosity within the collector community.
It is suggested that Gérald Genta, the designer of the Royal Oak, initially sold the design to both Bulova and Audemars Piguet, with AP later 'buying back' the design from Bulova to secure exclusivity.
Some contributors express surprise at the existence of such a 'copycat' design, questioning the rationale behind its production.
These Bulova models appear for sale quite often, typically fetching prices around £1500-2000, though current market values might be higher.
Several community members were previously unaware of this Bulova model and found the shared information very interesting.
The story behind the Bulova/AP design similarity is considered 'cool' by forum members.

The Discussion

Gregineugene

May 21, 2026

Wow. That's amazing, right?

I wonder how many others have never seen this. Or more interestingly if anybody here HAS one! edit: Flash! A news bulletin! 15 years ago on this very site (where else???) www.watchprosite.com . If there were pics posted then they do not appear on my screen.

amanico

May 21, 2026

I didn't even know this one! Very interesting. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

Ajas

May 21, 2026

Thank you for sharing . Was not aware and it is cool story

quattro

May 21, 2026

Thank you for unearthing this piece.

It's interesting even if I don't really see the point of making such a copycat: it makes no sense imo. Best, Emmanuel

imrootbeer7

May 21, 2026

These come up for sale quite often

Usually around £1500-2000. Probably a bit more now!!

montres1

May 21, 2026

I knew about this model, on top of my head, I think Gerald Genta sold the design to 2 brands Bulova and AP, and finally AP "bought back" the design from Bulova to be only ones to produce the "Royal Oak"

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Bulova Royal Oak-esque Watch: Gérald Genta Design History

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