New Watch Acquisition: Reference Guide

Jocke - Bad Santa's detailed review of the Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 offers a rare look at a watch with a fascinating, almost-forgotten history. His post not only showcases the modern reissue but also delves into the original 1957 prototype that never saw full production, providing valuable context for collectors interested in military-inspired timepieces. This article synthesizes community insights, making a 2021 forum discussion relevant for today's enthusiasts.

Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181

It comes in a brown little nice box.

Nicely presented.

This watch is the watch that never came out but stopped like a prototype in 1957, 3 were sent to the military for testing but 2 of these did not pass the tests.

So there was never any production of this model but instead it was brought to life in 2021. It comes in 2 versions that are almost identical as in the case of the movement.

This is the series-produced with Miyota movement and the limited one comes in 1000 pieces with Selitta movement and a box designed as a diver's helmet.  

Screw down crown with Bulova logo, 60-clicks bezel that locks really well, 41mm case in stainless steel that should withstand 200 meters.

Miyota 80S20 movement that are advantageously hidden by a nice backcase. 

A nicely domed sapphire crystal gives the watch a vintage touch.  

The really cool thing is the wrong dimensioned textile strap which is 16mm wide, it will be so retro and right I think even though most people hate it.  

Another fun thing is the moisture indicator of paper, which should change color if moisture enters the watch.  

A successful "reissue" that lists $ 895 which I consider is really affordable.  

It also has a little SuperLuminova, but not at the bezel numbers and stick markers that the limited model has.