https://chronopedia.club/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Jed+C 2026-04-11T19:56:03Z User contributions MediaWiki 1.43.0 https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Benrus&diff=1270 2020-04-08T19:56:54Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div><br /> [[File:Lazrus brothers.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Hippodrome.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Babe Ruth Benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:SkyChief.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Dial-o-rama.jpg|thumb]]]<br /> [[File:50s benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Jfk Benrus.png|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Benrus Type 1.jpg|thumb]]<br /> <br /> The Benrus story centers around its’ three founders, the Lazrus brothers. The oldest, Oscar and Benjamin, emigrated to the United States from Romania at ages 2 and 6, respectively. The third, S. Ralph Lazrus, was born 8 years later in New York City. The trio grew up together fascinated by business as they followed the American dream. Benjamin was the first to dive into the jewelry business at the age of 18 as he worked while attending Columbia University. Just over a year later, Benjamin was drafted to serve the U.S. Army in WWI. After making his return, Benjamin spawned a wild idea to unite the three brothers in business to start a watch company. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Founded in 1921 by Benjamin Lazrus and his two brothers, Oscar M. and S. Ralph Lazrus, the trio combined $5,000 to front Lazrus’ wild idea. By joining the first syllable of the Benjamin’s first name [ben] with the last syllable of the brother’s last name [rus], Benrus was born. Oscar, an attorney, was in charge of advertising and finances for the company. Benjamin was in charge of general operations as he understood the jewelry business most. Ralph handled the sales of the business as sales were his passion. At one time or another, each brother would eventually serve as President of the company.<br /> <br /> <br /> Despite big ambitions, its hard to say that the brothers would expect the success they would receive as Benrus grew to become one of the major players among the American watch companies. The brothers initially debated whether or not to have Benrus produce its own watches or only provide watch services, but after a short run of watch repair, the brothers made the full switch to original watch production. From this point forward, Benrus aimed to produce affordable tool watches by importing movements and parts. <br /> <br /> <br /> After some early sales, Benrus made a move to the historic New York Hippodrome building in 1923 just as Lazrus successfully trademarked ‘Benrus’ from the Swiss federal office for intellectual property. Now on 6th Avenue between West 43rd and 44th Streets, the brand quickly grew a foothold in the Jewelry District. The manufacturing of watches took place at one of three facilities under Benrus’ ownership: the headquarters, a factory in la Coux de Fond where its watch movements were assembled, and a factory in Waterbury, Connecticut where cases were produced. Benrus later expanded to meet higher demand, acquiring factories in France, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Thomas. <br /> <br /> Soon after their move in 1923, the company launched one of their most successful marketing campaigns with Charles Lindbergh. Advertisements showed a Benrus Tank watch with the title “Lindbergh Wears A Benrus Wrist Watch,” a major success for Benrus as Lindbergh was arguably the biggest celebrity in the world at the time. <br /> <br /> Following this major success, Benrus knocked it out of the park just three years later with a successful campaign for their new sportsman’s watch with the help of Babe Ruth. The new advertisements showed illustrations of Babe Ruth hitting with a Benrus on his wrist, a terrifying site as the lume likely was rolling around the case like sand in a shaker!<br /> <br /> Benrus continued the success of Babe Ruth’s watch by providing aspirational individuals with affordable luxury designs. These iconic watches varied in design greatly from cushion cases to tank cases as the brand continued its growth throughout the 1930s. As the second World War approached, Benrus saw an opportunity to provide tool watches for the United States Armed Forces as they could fulfill military contracts. Despite this vision, Benrus settled for secret U.S. Military contracts that refocused their manufacturing to timing systems (fuses, etc.) that were commonly used in munitions. Despite some claims stating the company stopped manufacturing watches during WWII, Benrus still produced and sold watches to civilians, shipping their movements to America via Lisbon, Portugal. Additionally, Benrus was able to develop and launch one of today’s most commonly known Benrus models: the Sky Chief. The chronograph was developed alongside the world’s leading aviation companies and the watch quickly became the “Official Watch of Famous Airlines.”<br /> <br /> After WWII came to a close, Benrus continued its climb as its newly freed resources from the exhaustion of military contracts allowed them to finally meet the demand for their watches. This was a particularly good period for Benrus as they were able to purchase Swiss movements at a lower price as Europe recovered from the war. Benrus designers worked overtime to place these affordable movements into unique cases to capitalize on this market demand. A notable example was the introduction of the Benrus Embraceable, one of the earlier examples of a watch with an integrated bracelet. <br /> <br /> The Embraceable was followed by the Benrus Citation, named after a famous racehorse, and the famous “Dial-O-Rama.” One of the most prominent jump hour direct read watches, this particular Benrus is considered a design classic. <br /> <br /> The postwar period of growth also allowed the brothers to bring more family members aboard the gravy train, most notably Oscar’s two sons: Jay Kay and Julian. Jay Kay, a Harvard grad and WWII Lieutenant in the Air Force, would eventually become Vice President of Benrus. Julian worked his way to become the head of the Waterbury plant as he later became President of Benrus. <br /> <br /> <br /> Moving into the 1950s, Benrus fully embraced print advertising as it was ready to begin the new era of American business. Its affordable luxury watches were seen by a wider audience than ever before as the company increased distribution and production. Dress and casual watches were produced and were advertised alongside one another as the decade became the company’s most profitable ever. One such reason of this great success was their recent triumph over the famous Hamilton watch company. This victory propelled Benrus as it became the third largest watch company in the United States, behind the giants Bulova and Elgin. Both brands were difficult to compete with as their business models focused on cheap movements and low retail prices. <br /> <br /> Great Controversy / Troubled Trade <br /> In the first part of 1952, Benrus caught wind of a proposal presented by the U.S. Tarrif Commission that recommended an increase in import duties on Swiss watch movements. As Benrus used solely Swiss made movements, the brothers understood the potential for great damage to the business. To preempt the supposed impending increase in import duties, Benrus was eager to find a way to produce movements in the United States.<br /> <br /> After coming up empty in a search to find solutions for U.S. based movement production, Benrus began a wildly controversial plan: a hostile takeover of their competitor, Hamilton. Starting in the second quarter of 1952, the plan was well underway as Benrus took to the New York Stock Exchange, incrementally purchasing stock of Hamilton Watch Company. The initial tranche of stock surpassed 10% at the start of 1953’s third quarter. Only six months later, Benrus increased their holdings of Hamilton stock to 24%. The first part of the company’s plan was a success as Benrus’ 24% allowed the company to appoint members to Hamilton’s board of directors. The terms allowed Benrus to appoint one member per year on a three-year term.<br /> <br /> Benrus added another wrinkle in the fold of their plan as they hoped the Hamilton takeover would allow them to take advantage of patents it held for a number of vehicle clocks. In their eagerness, Benrus pushed the envelope even farther as they began pressuring Hamilton to come to an agreement to produce the clocks or have Benrus take over as the sole owner of Hamilton. <br /> <br /> This move would prove to be a great mistake to Benrus as it would alert Hamilton’s legal team of the larger plot. Hamilton’s attorneys now fully believed Benrus was attempting a hostile takeover and filed a lawsuit. Claiming a violation of U.S. anti-trust laws, Benrus defended their moves on the NYSE toward Hamilton as a hedge against the proposed tariffs. Despite the defense, Hamilton won an injunction and Benrus was now left to clean their wounds – still unable to find a solution for the impending tariffs. <br /> <br /> The great controversy of the 1950s proved to be exhausting for the company’s three founders. Despite all three brothers wishes for retirement, Oscar saw an opportunity to buy his brothers out and plan for his succession. The buyout was a success as Benjamin and Ralph moved on. Benjamin began a real estate company and Ralph passed only a few years after in 1959. <br /> <br /> Despite the great controversy of the 1950s, Benrus continued growth in the 1960s as they fully embraced the new trend of steel tool watches for the general public. Moving away from gold, the company was able to increase its profit margins and position itself as the prideful American source for all watches from the ocean to the boardroom. The 1960s saw the introduction of its successful Ultra-Deep and standout pieces such as the Sea Lord, the Citation and the avant-garde Dial-O-Rama.<br /> <br /> <br /> Only three years into the decade, Benrus found itself the lucky producer of the Democratic National Convention’s gift to the late President John F. Kennedy. The DNC commissioned a unique Benrus for JFK, a 14k self-winding time and date watch engraved on the back ‘TO OUR PRESIDENT J.F.K.’ The watch was worn by President Kennedy only for a short time until as he reportedly found the watch far too heavy and feared losing it as a result of its loose bracelet. Ultimately, the President gifted it to a close aide and friend of his, Dave Powers, with whom the watch resided for more than 35 years until he consigned the watch to Sotheby’s in 1997.<br /> <br /> Continuing the monstrous decade for Benrus, in 1964 the company was awarded the MIL-W-3818 order for the standard issue Vietnam field watch. The field watch was given to nearly every service member in Vietnam and further cemented Benrus’ position as one of the finest producers of military field watches. Further proof came four years later when actor Steve McQueen wore his own Benrus field watch in the iconic 1968 film ‘Bullit.’ <br /> <br /> <br /> The end of the 1960s brought the end of the Lazrus’ brothers’ involvement in Benrus. Oscar sold the business to Victor Kiam. This new beginning of Benrus was unfortunately one of great decline. Kiam lamented to the rising trend of cheap Japanese Quartz movements and the rise of Timex. The shift to cheap movements meant the declining use of Benrus’ existing factories and existing contracts, eventually resulting in Kiam stripping the business of its most valuable assets. <br /> <br /> While the sale resulting in Benrus’ decline, the company closed out the decade by releasing two of the most iconic military dive watches of the era: the Benrus Type I and Type II. Developed to acquire a large military contract, these dive watches met the MIL-W-50717 specifications as outlined in the Type II figure below. <br /> <br /> <br /> The case design was different from most watches of the time as Benrus opted for a “monocoque” case, meaning the case itself was all machined from one block of steel. In fact, the only way to access the movement is by taking the domed crystal, hands and dial off. This design allowed for the watch to be far more durable and increased the depth rating of the watch considerably. Finally, the fixed spring bars matched other military issued dive watches as they added security and removed a common weak point of dive watches.<br /> <br /> <br /> The Type I and Type II became the military standard for the UDT (Underwater Demolitions Team), the predecessors to the Navy Seals, the Army and even the CIA. These watches today wear incredibly well and have a soft spot in the hearts of many collectors.<br /> <br /> Despite the brand’s name still existing today, most believe the true heart of Benrus was a victim of the Quartz Crisis. During its height, Benrus was one of the most successful American watch companies as it tugged on the patriotic heartstrings of the typical 20th century American. Benrus’ have been worn by Presidents, famous actors, all-time baseball players, record breaking pilots, and by soldiers defending democracy and tyranny around the globe. The brand had an incredible run and unfortunately was killed by the well-known Quartz Crisis. Today, the brand only lives by name as the current owners produce a Heritage Collection with a smattering of Japanese and Swiss-made off-the-shelf movements.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Benrus_Type_1.jpg&diff=1269 2020-04-08T19:56:41Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Benrus Type 1</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Benrus&diff=1268 2020-04-08T19:53:07Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div><br /> [[File:Lazrus brothers.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Hippodrome.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Babe Ruth Benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:SkyChief.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Dial-o-rama.jpg|thumb]]]<br /> [[File:50s benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Jfk Benrus.png|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Type 1.webp|thumb]]<br /> The Benrus story centers around its’ three founders, the Lazrus brothers. The oldest, Oscar and Benjamin, emigrated to the United States from Romania at ages 2 and 6, respectively. The third, S. Ralph Lazrus, was born 8 years later in New York City. The trio grew up together fascinated by business as they followed the American dream. Benjamin was the first to dive into the jewelry business at the age of 18 as he worked while attending Columbia University. Just over a year later, Benjamin was drafted to serve the U.S. Army in WWI. After making his return, Benjamin spawned a wild idea to unite the three brothers in business to start a watch company. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Founded in 1921 by Benjamin Lazrus and his two brothers, Oscar M. and S. Ralph Lazrus, the trio combined $5,000 to front Lazrus’ wild idea. By joining the first syllable of the Benjamin’s first name [ben] with the last syllable of the brother’s last name [rus], Benrus was born. Oscar, an attorney, was in charge of advertising and finances for the company. Benjamin was in charge of general operations as he understood the jewelry business most. Ralph handled the sales of the business as sales were his passion. At one time or another, each brother would eventually serve as President of the company.<br /> <br /> <br /> Despite big ambitions, its hard to say that the brothers would expect the success they would receive as Benrus grew to become one of the major players among the American watch companies. The brothers initially debated whether or not to have Benrus produce its own watches or only provide watch services, but after a short run of watch repair, the brothers made the full switch to original watch production. From this point forward, Benrus aimed to produce affordable tool watches by importing movements and parts. <br /> <br /> <br /> After some early sales, Benrus made a move to the historic New York Hippodrome building in 1923 just as Lazrus successfully trademarked ‘Benrus’ from the Swiss federal office for intellectual property. Now on 6th Avenue between West 43rd and 44th Streets, the brand quickly grew a foothold in the Jewelry District. The manufacturing of watches took place at one of three facilities under Benrus’ ownership: the headquarters, a factory in la Coux de Fond where its watch movements were assembled, and a factory in Waterbury, Connecticut where cases were produced. Benrus later expanded to meet higher demand, acquiring factories in France, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Thomas. <br /> <br /> Soon after their move in 1923, the company launched one of their most successful marketing campaigns with Charles Lindbergh. Advertisements showed a Benrus Tank watch with the title “Lindbergh Wears A Benrus Wrist Watch,” a major success for Benrus as Lindbergh was arguably the biggest celebrity in the world at the time. <br /> <br /> Following this major success, Benrus knocked it out of the park just three years later with a successful campaign for their new sportsman’s watch with the help of Babe Ruth. The new advertisements showed illustrations of Babe Ruth hitting with a Benrus on his wrist, a terrifying site as the lume likely was rolling around the case like sand in a shaker!<br /> <br /> Benrus continued the success of Babe Ruth’s watch by providing aspirational individuals with affordable luxury designs. These iconic watches varied in design greatly from cushion cases to tank cases as the brand continued its growth throughout the 1930s. As the second World War approached, Benrus saw an opportunity to provide tool watches for the United States Armed Forces as they could fulfill military contracts. Despite this vision, Benrus settled for secret U.S. Military contracts that refocused their manufacturing to timing systems (fuses, etc.) that were commonly used in munitions. Despite some claims stating the company stopped manufacturing watches during WWII, Benrus still produced and sold watches to civilians, shipping their movements to America via Lisbon, Portugal. Additionally, Benrus was able to develop and launch one of today’s most commonly known Benrus models: the Sky Chief. The chronograph was developed alongside the world’s leading aviation companies and the watch quickly became the “Official Watch of Famous Airlines.”<br /> <br /> After WWII came to a close, Benrus continued its climb as its newly freed resources from the exhaustion of military contracts allowed them to finally meet the demand for their watches. This was a particularly good period for Benrus as they were able to purchase Swiss movements at a lower price as Europe recovered from the war. Benrus designers worked overtime to place these affordable movements into unique cases to capitalize on this market demand. A notable example was the introduction of the Benrus Embraceable, one of the earlier examples of a watch with an integrated bracelet. <br /> <br /> The Embraceable was followed by the Benrus Citation, named after a famous racehorse, and the famous “Dial-O-Rama.” One of the most prominent jump hour direct read watches, this particular Benrus is considered a design classic. <br /> <br /> The postwar period of growth also allowed the brothers to bring more family members aboard the gravy train, most notably Oscar’s two sons: Jay Kay and Julian. Jay Kay, a Harvard grad and WWII Lieutenant in the Air Force, would eventually become Vice President of Benrus. Julian worked his way to become the head of the Waterbury plant as he later became President of Benrus. <br /> <br /> <br /> Moving into the 1950s, Benrus fully embraced print advertising as it was ready to begin the new era of American business. Its affordable luxury watches were seen by a wider audience than ever before as the company increased distribution and production. Dress and casual watches were produced and were advertised alongside one another as the decade became the company’s most profitable ever. One such reason of this great success was their recent triumph over the famous Hamilton watch company. This victory propelled Benrus as it became the third largest watch company in the United States, behind the giants Bulova and Elgin. Both brands were difficult to compete with as their business models focused on cheap movements and low retail prices. <br /> <br /> Great Controversy / Troubled Trade <br /> In the first part of 1952, Benrus caught wind of a proposal presented by the U.S. Tarrif Commission that recommended an increase in import duties on Swiss watch movements. As Benrus used solely Swiss made movements, the brothers understood the potential for great damage to the business. To preempt the supposed impending increase in import duties, Benrus was eager to find a way to produce movements in the United States.<br /> <br /> After coming up empty in a search to find solutions for U.S. based movement production, Benrus began a wildly controversial plan: a hostile takeover of their competitor, Hamilton. Starting in the second quarter of 1952, the plan was well underway as Benrus took to the New York Stock Exchange, incrementally purchasing stock of Hamilton Watch Company. The initial tranche of stock surpassed 10% at the start of 1953’s third quarter. Only six months later, Benrus increased their holdings of Hamilton stock to 24%. The first part of the company’s plan was a success as Benrus’ 24% allowed the company to appoint members to Hamilton’s board of directors. The terms allowed Benrus to appoint one member per year on a three-year term.<br /> <br /> Benrus added another wrinkle in the fold of their plan as they hoped the Hamilton takeover would allow them to take advantage of patents it held for a number of vehicle clocks. In their eagerness, Benrus pushed the envelope even farther as they began pressuring Hamilton to come to an agreement to produce the clocks or have Benrus take over as the sole owner of Hamilton. <br /> <br /> This move would prove to be a great mistake to Benrus as it would alert Hamilton’s legal team of the larger plot. Hamilton’s attorneys now fully believed Benrus was attempting a hostile takeover and filed a lawsuit. Claiming a violation of U.S. anti-trust laws, Benrus defended their moves on the NYSE toward Hamilton as a hedge against the proposed tariffs. Despite the defense, Hamilton won an injunction and Benrus was now left to clean their wounds – still unable to find a solution for the impending tariffs. <br /> <br /> The great controversy of the 1950s proved to be exhausting for the company’s three founders. Despite all three brothers wishes for retirement, Oscar saw an opportunity to buy his brothers out and plan for his succession. The buyout was a success as Benjamin and Ralph moved on. Benjamin began a real estate company and Ralph passed only a few years after in 1959. <br /> <br /> Despite the great controversy of the 1950s, Benrus continued growth in the 1960s as they fully embraced the new trend of steel tool watches for the general public. Moving away from gold, the company was able to increase its profit margins and position itself as the prideful American source for all watches from the ocean to the boardroom. The 1960s saw the introduction of its successful Ultra-Deep and standout pieces such as the Sea Lord, the Citation and the avant-garde Dial-O-Rama.<br /> <br /> <br /> Only three years into the decade, Benrus found itself the lucky producer of the Democratic National Convention’s gift to the late President John F. Kennedy. The DNC commissioned a unique Benrus for JFK, a 14k self-winding time and date watch engraved on the back ‘TO OUR PRESIDENT J.F.K.’ The watch was worn by President Kennedy only for a short time until as he reportedly found the watch far too heavy and feared losing it as a result of its loose bracelet. Ultimately, the President gifted it to a close aide and friend of his, Dave Powers, with whom the watch resided for more than 35 years until he consigned the watch to Sotheby’s in 1997.<br /> <br /> Continuing the monstrous decade for Benrus, in 1964 the company was awarded the MIL-W-3818 order for the standard issue Vietnam field watch. The field watch was given to nearly every service member in Vietnam and further cemented Benrus’ position as one of the finest producers of military field watches. Further proof came four years later when actor Steve McQueen wore his own Benrus field watch in the iconic 1968 film ‘Bullit.’ <br /> <br /> <br /> The end of the 1960s brought the end of the Lazrus’ brothers’ involvement in Benrus. Oscar sold the business to Victor Kiam. This new beginning of Benrus was unfortunately one of great decline. Kiam lamented to the rising trend of cheap Japanese Quartz movements and the rise of Timex. The shift to cheap movements meant the declining use of Benrus’ existing factories and existing contracts, eventually resulting in Kiam stripping the business of its most valuable assets. <br /> <br /> While the sale resulting in Benrus’ decline, the company closed out the decade by releasing two of the most iconic military dive watches of the era: the Benrus Type I and Type II. Developed to acquire a large military contract, these dive watches met the MIL-W-50717 specifications as outlined in the Type II figure below. <br /> <br /> <br /> The case design was different from most watches of the time as Benrus opted for a “monocoque” case, meaning the case itself was all machined from one block of steel. In fact, the only way to access the movement is by taking the domed crystal, hands and dial off. This design allowed for the watch to be far more durable and increased the depth rating of the watch considerably. Finally, the fixed spring bars matched other military issued dive watches as they added security and removed a common weak point of dive watches.<br /> <br /> <br /> The Type I and Type II became the military standard for the UDT (Underwater Demolitions Team), the predecessors to the Navy Seals, the Army and even the CIA. These watches today wear incredibly well and have a soft spot in the hearts of many collectors.<br /> <br /> Despite the brand’s name still existing today, most believe the true heart of Benrus was a victim of the Quartz Crisis. During its height, Benrus was one of the most successful American watch companies as it tugged on the patriotic heartstrings of the typical 20th century American. Benrus’ have been worn by Presidents, famous actors, all-time baseball players, record breaking pilots, and by soldiers defending democracy and tyranny around the globe. The brand had an incredible run and unfortunately was killed by the well-known Quartz Crisis. Today, the brand only lives by name as the current owners produce a Heritage Collection with a smattering of Japanese and Swiss-made off-the-shelf movements.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Type_1.webp&diff=1267 2020-04-08T19:52:53Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Benrus Type 1</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Benrus&diff=1266 2020-04-08T19:48:28Z

<p>Jed C: Created page with &quot; thumb thumb thumb thumb thumb File:Lindber...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div><br /> [[File:Lazrus brothers.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Hippodrome.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Babe Ruth Benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:SkyChief.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Dial-o-rama.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Lindbergh Benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:50s benrus.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Ultra Deep.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Jfk Benrus.png|thumb]]<br /> <br /> The Benrus story centers around its’ three founders, the Lazrus brothers. The oldest, Oscar and Benjamin, emigrated to the United States from Romania at ages 2 and 6, respectively. The third, S. Ralph Lazrus, was born 8 years later in New York City. The trio grew up together fascinated by business as they followed the American dream. Benjamin was the first to dive into the jewelry business at the age of 18 as he worked while attending Columbia University. Just over a year later, Benjamin was drafted to serve the U.S. Army in WWI. After making his return, Benjamin spawned a wild idea to unite the three brothers in business to start a watch company. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Founded in 1921 by Benjamin Lazrus and his two brothers, Oscar M. and S. Ralph Lazrus, the trio combined $5,000 to front Lazrus’ wild idea. By joining the first syllable of the Benjamin’s first name [ben] with the last syllable of the brother’s last name [rus], Benrus was born. Oscar, an attorney, was in charge of advertising and finances for the company. Benjamin was in charge of general operations as he understood the jewelry business most. Ralph handled the sales of the business as sales were his passion. At one time or another, each brother would eventually serve as President of the company.<br /> <br /> <br /> Despite big ambitions, its hard to say that the brothers would expect the success they would receive as Benrus grew to become one of the major players among the American watch companies. The brothers initially debated whether or not to have Benrus produce its own watches or only provide watch services, but after a short run of watch repair, the brothers made the full switch to original watch production. From this point forward, Benrus aimed to produce affordable tool watches by importing movements and parts. <br /> <br /> <br /> After some early sales, Benrus made a move to the historic New York Hippodrome building in 1923 just as Lazrus successfully trademarked ‘Benrus’ from the Swiss federal office for intellectual property. Now on 6th Avenue between West 43rd and 44th Streets, the brand quickly grew a foothold in the Jewelry District. The manufacturing of watches took place at one of three facilities under Benrus’ ownership: the headquarters, a factory in la Coux de Fond where its watch movements were assembled, and a factory in Waterbury, Connecticut where cases were produced. Benrus later expanded to meet higher demand, acquiring factories in France, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Thomas. <br /> <br /> Soon after their move in 1923, the company launched one of their most successful marketing campaigns with Charles Lindbergh. Advertisements showed a Benrus Tank watch with the title “Lindbergh Wears A Benrus Wrist Watch,” a major success for Benrus as Lindbergh was arguably the biggest celebrity in the world at the time. <br /> <br /> Following this major success, Benrus knocked it out of the park just three years later with a successful campaign for their new sportsman’s watch with the help of Babe Ruth. The new advertisements showed illustrations of Babe Ruth hitting with a Benrus on his wrist, a terrifying site as the lume likely was rolling around the case like sand in a shaker!<br /> <br /> Benrus continued the success of Babe Ruth’s watch by providing aspirational individuals with affordable luxury designs. These iconic watches varied in design greatly from cushion cases to tank cases as the brand continued its growth throughout the 1930s. As the second World War approached, Benrus saw an opportunity to provide tool watches for the United States Armed Forces as they could fulfill military contracts. Despite this vision, Benrus settled for secret U.S. Military contracts that refocused their manufacturing to timing systems (fuses, etc.) that were commonly used in munitions. Despite some claims stating the company stopped manufacturing watches during WWII, Benrus still produced and sold watches to civilians, shipping their movements to America via Lisbon, Portugal. Additionally, Benrus was able to develop and launch one of today’s most commonly known Benrus models: the Sky Chief. The chronograph was developed alongside the world’s leading aviation companies and the watch quickly became the “Official Watch of Famous Airlines.”<br /> <br /> After WWII came to a close, Benrus continued its climb as its newly freed resources from the exhaustion of military contracts allowed them to finally meet the demand for their watches. This was a particularly good period for Benrus as they were able to purchase Swiss movements at a lower price as Europe recovered from the war. Benrus designers worked overtime to place these affordable movements into unique cases to capitalize on this market demand. A notable example was the introduction of the Benrus Embraceable, one of the earlier examples of a watch with an integrated bracelet. <br /> <br /> The Embraceable was followed by the Benrus Citation, named after a famous racehorse, and the famous “Dial-O-Rama.” One of the most prominent jump hour direct read watches, this particular Benrus is considered a design classic. <br /> <br /> The postwar period of growth also allowed the brothers to bring more family members aboard the gravy train, most notably Oscar’s two sons: Jay Kay and Julian. Jay Kay, a Harvard grad and WWII Lieutenant in the Air Force, would eventually become Vice President of Benrus. Julian worked his way to become the head of the Waterbury plant as he later became President of Benrus. <br /> <br /> <br /> Moving into the 1950s, Benrus fully embraced print advertising as it was ready to begin the new era of American business. Its affordable luxury watches were seen by a wider audience than ever before as the company increased distribution and production. Dress and casual watches were produced and were advertised alongside one another as the decade became the company’s most profitable ever. One such reason of this great success was their recent triumph over the famous Hamilton watch company. This victory propelled Benrus as it became the third largest watch company in the United States, behind the giants Bulova and Elgin. Both brands were difficult to compete with as their business models focused on cheap movements and low retail prices. <br /> <br /> Great Controversy / Troubled Trade <br /> In the first part of 1952, Benrus caught wind of a proposal presented by the U.S. Tarrif Commission that recommended an increase in import duties on Swiss watch movements. As Benrus used solely Swiss made movements, the brothers understood the potential for great damage to the business. To preempt the supposed impending increase in import duties, Benrus was eager to find a way to produce movements in the United States.<br /> <br /> After coming up empty in a search to find solutions for U.S. based movement production, Benrus began a wildly controversial plan: a hostile takeover of their competitor, Hamilton. Starting in the second quarter of 1952, the plan was well underway as Benrus took to the New York Stock Exchange, incrementally purchasing stock of Hamilton Watch Company. The initial tranche of stock surpassed 10% at the start of 1953’s third quarter. Only six months later, Benrus increased their holdings of Hamilton stock to 24%. The first part of the company’s plan was a success as Benrus’ 24% allowed the company to appoint members to Hamilton’s board of directors. The terms allowed Benrus to appoint one member per year on a three-year term.<br /> <br /> Benrus added another wrinkle in the fold of their plan as they hoped the Hamilton takeover would allow them to take advantage of patents it held for a number of vehicle clocks. In their eagerness, Benrus pushed the envelope even farther as they began pressuring Hamilton to come to an agreement to produce the clocks or have Benrus take over as the sole owner of Hamilton. <br /> <br /> This move would prove to be a great mistake to Benrus as it would alert Hamilton’s legal team of the larger plot. Hamilton’s attorneys now fully believed Benrus was attempting a hostile takeover and filed a lawsuit. Claiming a violation of U.S. anti-trust laws, Benrus defended their moves on the NYSE toward Hamilton as a hedge against the proposed tariffs. Despite the defense, Hamilton won an injunction and Benrus was now left to clean their wounds – still unable to find a solution for the impending tariffs. <br /> <br /> The great controversy of the 1950s proved to be exhausting for the company’s three founders. Despite all three brothers wishes for retirement, Oscar saw an opportunity to buy his brothers out and plan for his succession. The buyout was a success as Benjamin and Ralph moved on. Benjamin began a real estate company and Ralph passed only a few years after in 1959. <br /> <br /> Despite the great controversy of the 1950s, Benrus continued growth in the 1960s as they fully embraced the new trend of steel tool watches for the general public. Moving away from gold, the company was able to increase its profit margins and position itself as the prideful American source for all watches from the ocean to the boardroom. The 1960s saw the introduction of its successful Ultra-Deep and standout pieces such as the Sea Lord, the Citation and the avant-garde Dial-O-Rama.<br /> <br /> <br /> Only three years into the decade, Benrus found itself the lucky producer of the Democratic National Convention’s gift to the late President John F. Kennedy. The DNC commissioned a unique Benrus for JFK, a 14k self-winding time and date watch engraved on the back ‘TO OUR PRESIDENT J.F.K.’ The watch was worn by President Kennedy only for a short time until as he reportedly found the watch far too heavy and feared losing it as a result of its loose bracelet. Ultimately, the President gifted it to a close aide and friend of his, Dave Powers, with whom the watch resided for more than 35 years until he consigned the watch to Sotheby’s in 1997.<br /> <br /> Continuing the monstrous decade for Benrus, in 1964 the company was awarded the MIL-W-3818 order for the standard issue Vietnam field watch. The field watch was given to nearly every service member in Vietnam and further cemented Benrus’ position as one of the finest producers of military field watches. Further proof came four years later when actor Steve McQueen wore his own Benrus field watch in the iconic 1968 film ‘Bullit.’ <br /> <br /> <br /> The end of the 1960s brought the end of the Lazrus’ brothers’ involvement in Benrus. Oscar sold the business to Victor Kiam. This new beginning of Benrus was unfortunately one of great decline. Kiam lamented to the rising trend of cheap Japanese Quartz movements and the rise of Timex. The shift to cheap movements meant the declining use of Benrus’ existing factories and existing contracts, eventually resulting in Kiam stripping the business of its most valuable assets. <br /> <br /> While the sale resulting in Benrus’ decline, the company closed out the decade by releasing two of the most iconic military dive watches of the era: the Benrus Type I and Type II. Developed to acquire a large military contract, these dive watches met the MIL-W-50717 specifications as outlined in the Type II figure below. <br /> <br /> <br /> The case design was different from most watches of the time as Benrus opted for a “monocoque” case, meaning the case itself was all machined from one block of steel. In fact, the only way to access the movement is by taking the domed crystal, hands and dial off. This design allowed for the watch to be far more durable and increased the depth rating of the watch considerably. Finally, the fixed spring bars matched other military issued dive watches as they added security and removed a common weak point of dive watches.<br /> <br /> <br /> The Type I and Type II became the military standard for the UDT (Underwater Demolitions Team), the predecessors to the Navy Seals, the Army and even the CIA. These watches today wear incredibly well and have a soft spot in the hearts of many collectors.<br /> <br /> Despite the brand’s name still existing today, most believe the true heart of Benrus was a victim of the Quartz Crisis. During its height, Benrus was one of the most successful American watch companies as it tugged on the patriotic heartstrings of the typical 20th century American. Benrus’ have been worn by Presidents, famous actors, all-time baseball players, record breaking pilots, and by soldiers defending democracy and tyranny around the globe. The brand had an incredible run and unfortunately was killed by the well-known Quartz Crisis. Today, the brand only lives by name as the current owners produce a Heritage Collection with a smattering of Japanese and Swiss-made off-the-shelf movements.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Jfk_Benrus.png&diff=1265 2020-04-08T19:47:33Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>JFK's Benrus</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Ultra_Deep.jpg&diff=1264 2020-04-08T19:45:50Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>The Ultra Deep, Benrus' version of the EPSA Super Compressor</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:50s_benrus.jpg&diff=1263 2020-04-08T19:42:09Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Vintage Benrus ad from the 1950s</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Dial-o-rama.jpg&diff=1262 2020-04-08T19:39:19Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Benrus Dial-o-Rama, one of the most attractive jump hour watches</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Lindbergh_Benrus.png&diff=1261 2020-04-08T19:38:26Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Charles Lindbergh wore a Benrus watch</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:SkyChief.jpg&diff=1260 2020-04-08T19:37:32Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>The Benrus Sky Chief was the first watch made for the fledgling airline industry in 1939</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Babe_Ruth_Benrus.jpg&diff=1259 2020-04-08T19:36:35Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Babe Ruth wore a Benrus watch</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Hippodrome.jpg&diff=1258 2020-04-08T19:35:49Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Hippodrome Building, first Benrus headquarters</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Lazrus_brothers.jpg&diff=1257 2020-04-08T19:34:56Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Benjamin, Oscar and Ralph Lazrus</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova_Chronographs&diff=895 2020-04-06T03:53:57Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div><br /> [[File:Bulova chronographs.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Like most American watch brands, Bulova never really specialized in chronographs. The watches they did produce used well-regarded Swiss movements from Valjoux and are relatively rare in the marketplace. <br /> <br /> Models:<br /> Monopusher mini-chronograph<br /> <br /> Bulova &quot;Joe DiMaggio&quot;<br /> <br /> Bulova 1963 Valjoux 92 Chronograph<br /> <br /> Bulova Deep Sea Chronograph<br /> <br /> Letter Series<br /> <br /> *Chronograph A &quot;Surfboard&quot;<br /> *Chronograph B &quot;Devil Diver&quot;<br /> &quot;Chronograph C &quot;Stars and Stripes&quot;<br /> *Chronograph D &quot;Hooded Cushion&quot;<br /> <br /> Buren Chronomatic models<br /> <br /> *Bulova Parking Meter<br /> *Bulova Bullseye<br /> *Bulova Autavia<br /> <br /> Bulova Marine Star<br /> Bulova Sea Hunter Chronograph</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova_Chronographs&diff=894 2020-04-06T03:51:41Z

<p>Jed C: Created page with &quot; Like most American watch brands, Bulova never really specialized in chronographs. The watches they did produce used well-regarded Swiss movements from Valjoux and are relati...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div><br /> <br /> Like most American watch brands, Bulova never really specialized in chronographs. The watches they did produce used well-regarded Swiss movements from Valjoux and are relatively rare in the marketplace. <br /> <br /> Models:<br /> Monopusher mini-chronograph<br /> <br /> Bulova &quot;Joe DiMaggio&quot;<br /> <br /> Bulova 1963 Valjoux 92 Chronograph<br /> <br /> Bulova Deep Sea Chronograph<br /> <br /> Letter Series<br /> <br /> *Chronograph A &quot;Surfboard&quot;<br /> *Chronograph B &quot;Devil Diver&quot;<br /> &quot;Chronograph C &quot;Stars and Stripes&quot;<br /> *Chronograph D &quot;Hooded Cushion&quot;<br /> <br /> Buren Chronomatic models<br /> <br /> *Bulova Parking Meter<br /> *Bulova Bullseye<br /> *Bulova Autavia<br /> <br /> Bulova Marine Star<br /> Bulova Sea Hunter Chronograph</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Bulova_chronographs.jpg&diff=893 2020-04-06T03:49:15Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Bulova's first two-register chronograph. Powered by the Valjoux 22 and offered in a black or white dial</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=892 2020-04-06T03:32:53Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>=='''History of Bulova'''==<br /> <br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Bulova center.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> <br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In the 1920s, the 23-jewel movement was considered one of the best in the world and really put the brand on the map. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. Despite the fact that Charles Lindbergh personally wore the [[Longines]] Hour Angle on his flight, Bulova capitalized on the famous trip with a series of Lone Eagle wristwatches. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> In 1949, Bulova became the first and only manufacturer to license the Motion Picture Academy Awards, by producing the Academy Award model, with Art Deco styling and a textured dial resembling stage curtains. <br /> Bulova created its own high quality automatic movement, dubbed &quot;Self Winding&quot; in the 1950s. <br /> <br /> ==The Accutron Years== <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Designed by Swiss engineer Max Hetzel, the Accutron used the vibrations of a tuning fork to regulate the watch to high tolerances, advertising accuracy to within a minute per month and dazzling buyers with the Spaceview, which did away with the dial, showing the beauty of the first transistorized movement. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. For instance,all of the clocks in the Apollo spacecraft were Bulova Accutrons. In the decade of the 1960s, Bulova produced many diving watch variations, to appeal to confident postwar buyers with some disposable income to indulge in sporting leisure activities. In 1966, Bulova purchased the renowned Universal Geneve. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> During this time, Bulova sold chronographs with Swiss Valjoux movements, such as the Chonograph A or &quot;Surfboard&quot; and the Chronograph C or &quot;Stars and Stipes.&quot; Bulova also made watches featuring the Chrono-Matic movement. These chronographs were of extremely high quality and are very collectible today.<br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the quality standards slipped a bit during this time and even the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued after 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. Many Bulova watches from this period were made in thin gold plate, hurting their reputation as an upper-middle tier brand. From 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> [[23J]]<br /> <br /> [[Lone Eagle]]<br /> <br /> *[[Academy Award]]<br /> <br /> [[Self-Winding]]<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> [[Military]]<br /> <br /> [[Diver Watches]]<br /> <br /> [[Computron/Digitals]]<br /> <br /> *[[Bulova Chronographs]]</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Accutron&diff=533 2020-04-04T12:46:10Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Accutron: First Electronic Watch<br /> <br /> The *[[Bulova]] Accutron wasn't the first electric watch. That honor goes to Hamilton. However, the Accutron is the first electronic watch, utilizing the brand new technology of transistors. It is also the first reliable battery powered watch, with many examples still running perfectly from the 1960s. These electric watches use a tuning fork to regulate the time. They make a delightful humming sound and have a mesmerizing constant sweep to their seconds hands. The Accutron was a significant achievement of American watchmaking. It solidified Bulova as a high quality and popular brand, giving the company financial strength that has allowed it to exist to this day, despite a decimation in most other areas of American manufacturing. <br /> <br /> History<br /> <br /> In 1952, Harry Henshel of Bulova was looking for a way to increase the accuracy of his watches. He hired Swiss electrical engineer Max Hetzel. Hetzel developed the Accutron movement, with the first prototypes being constructed in 1955 and the first watches released in 1960. <br /> <br /> Movement<br /> <br /> The Accutron 214 movement was truly a breakthrough in time keeping. Rather than using a conventional balance wheel and mainspring, power is transferred by a battery to the coils of a tuning fork. Attached to the tuning fork are two ultra-thin jeweled pawl fingers that rotate an index wheel with 360 impossibly tiny teeth. The index wheel is connected to a gear train that runs the watch. While all of this was very high tech, the Accutron movement is no plastic throwaway, It does use some glass-filled diallyl phthalate as an insulating material, but the plates are constructed the old-fashioned way, with beautifully machined brass and jeweled pivots. This gem-like quality gives the movement durability and reliability that was lacking in the competition. <br /> <br /> Introduction<br /> <br /> The Accutron was introduced in 1960 with great fanfare. The advertising firm of Interpublic, run by real mad man Jack Tinker, came up with the name and a series of ads that proclaimed the Accutron as the first new timekeeping device since the mechanical watch was invented and talked about it as a whole new concept, why you should wear an Accutron instead of a watch. Bulova used print and television advertising, with a notable commercial in which a clockmaker adjusts a tower clock in a village using his Accutron. Accuracy was guaranteed to within a minute a month, easily achieving a rating that was celebrated as &quot;Chronometer&quot; by the Swiss and suddenly made all other timekeepers seem quaint and old-fashioned by comparison. The new watch captivated the public, with its modern-cool image, humming sound and stunning designs. <br /> <br /> Spaceview<br /> <br /> Part of the rollout of the new watch included supplying dealers with special demonstrator models to show the new technology to the public. These watches were made without a dial. The markers were printed dots on the crystal and the white luminous hands provided contrast. These see-through demonstrators proved so popular that customers were begging dealers to sell their only one. To provide customer satisfaction, dealers began converting their standard Accutrons to this design. Bulova responded to this demand by creating the Spaceview as its own model. <br /> <br /> Astronaut<br /> <br /> Part of the Accutron plan was to develop high grade watches for the military. Bulova Chairman Omar Bradley was one of the most famous and well-respected generals of WWII and was the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Korean War. The Astronaut model was developed in 1962 as a GMT watch for pilots, with the hope of securing a contract for the newly-created NASA Space program. <br /> <br /> Railroad<br /> <br /> In some ways the Railroad watch was the first &quot;tool watch.&quot; The need for timepiece accuracy was crucial to keep the trains synchronized and ensure that no two trains would be in the same place at the same time. The Accuron Railroad Approved watch provided these lines with a truly accurate timepiece and was in many ways the &quot;last word&quot; in train watches. <br /> <br /> Models<br /> <br /> 214<br /> <br /> 218<br /> <br /> 219<br /> <br /> 224<br /> <br /> 2210</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Accutron&diff=532 2020-04-04T12:45:26Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Accutron: First Electronic Watch<br /> <br /> The Bulova Accutron wasn't the first electric watch. That honor goes to Hamilton. However, the Accutron is the first electronic watch, utilizing the brand new technology of transistors. It is also the first reliable battery powered watch, with many examples still running perfectly from the 1960s. These electric watches use a tuning fork to regulate the time. They make a delightful humming sound and have a mesmerizing constant sweep to their seconds hands. The Accutron was a significant achievement of American watchmaking. It solidified Bulova as a high quality and popular brand, giving the company financial strength that has allowed it to exist to this day, despite a decimation in most other areas of American manufacturing. <br /> <br /> History<br /> <br /> In 1952, Harry Henshel of Bulova was looking for a way to increase the accuracy of his watches. He hired Swiss electrical engineer Max Hetzel. Hetzel developed the Accutron movement, with the first prototypes being constructed in 1955 and the first watches released in 1960. <br /> <br /> Movement<br /> <br /> The Accutron 214 movement was truly a breakthrough in time keeping. Rather than using a conventional balance wheel and mainspring, power is transferred by a battery to the coils of a tuning fork. Attached to the tuning fork are two ultra-thin jeweled pawl fingers that rotate an index wheel with 360 impossibly tiny teeth. The index wheel is connected to a gear train that runs the watch. While all of this was very high tech, the Accutron movement is no plastic throwaway, It does use some glass-filled diallyl phthalate as an insulating material, but the plates are constructed the old-fashioned way, with beautifully machined brass and jeweled pivots. This gem-like quality gives the movement durability and reliability that was lacking in the competition. <br /> <br /> Introduction<br /> <br /> The Accutron was introduced in 1960 with great fanfare. The advertising firm of Interpublic, run by real mad man Jack Tinker, came up with the name and a series of ads that proclaimed the Accutron as the first new timekeeping device since the mechanical watch was invented and talked about it as a whole new concept, why you should wear an Accutron instead of a watch. Bulova used print and television advertising, with a notable commercial in which a clockmaker adjusts a tower clock in a village using his Accutron. Accuracy was guaranteed to within a minute a month, easily achieving a rating that was celebrated as &quot;Chronometer&quot; by the Swiss and suddenly made all other timekeepers seem quaint and old-fashioned by comparison. The new watch captivated the public, with its modern-cool image, humming sound and stunning designs. <br /> <br /> Spaceview<br /> <br /> Part of the rollout of the new watch included supplying dealers with special demonstrator models to show the new technology to the public. These watches were made without a dial. The markers were printed dots on the crystal and the white luminous hands provided contrast. These see-through demonstrators proved so popular that customers were begging dealers to sell their only one. To provide customer satisfaction, dealers began converting their standard Accutrons to this design. Bulova responded to this demand by creating the Spaceview as its own model. <br /> <br /> Astronaut<br /> <br /> Part of the Accutron plan was to develop high grade watches for the military. Bulova Chairman Omar Bradley was one of the most famous and well-respected generals of WWII and was the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Korean War. The Astronaut model was developed in 1962 as a GMT watch for pilots, with the hope of securing a contract for the newly-created NASA Space program. <br /> <br /> Railroad<br /> <br /> In some ways the Railroad watch was the first &quot;tool watch.&quot; The need for timepiece accuracy was crucial to keep the trains synchronized and ensure that no two trains would be in the same place at the same time. The Accuron Railroad Approved watch provided these lines with a truly accurate timepiece and was in many ways the &quot;last word&quot; in train watches. <br /> <br /> Models<br /> <br /> 214<br /> <br /> 218<br /> <br /> 219<br /> <br /> 224<br /> <br /> 2210</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Accutron&diff=531 2020-04-04T12:39:16Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>The Bulova Accutron wasn't the first electric watch. That honor goes to Hamilton. However, the Accutron is the first electronic watch, utilizing the brand new technology of transistors. It is also the first reliable battery powered watch, with many examples still running perfectly from the 1960s. These electric watches use a tuning fork to regulate the time. They make a delightful humming sound and have a mesmerizing constant sweep to their seconds hands. The Accutron was a significant achievement of American watchmaking. It solidified Bulova as a high quality and popular brand, giving the company financial strength that has allowed it to exist to this day, despite a decimation in most other areas of American manufacturing. <br /> <br /> History<br /> <br /> In 1952, Harry Henshel of Bulova was looking for a way to increase the accuracy of his watches. He hired Swiss electrical engineer Max Hetzel. Hetzel developed the Accutron movement, with the first prototypes being constructed in 1955 and the first watches released in 1960. <br /> <br /> Movement<br /> <br /> The Accutron 214 movement was truly a breakthrough in time keeping. Rather than using a conventional balance wheel and mainspring, power is transferred by a battery to the coils of a tuning fork. Attached to the tuning fork are two ultra-thin jeweled pawl fingers that rotate an index wheel with 360 impossibly tiny teeth. The index wheel is connected to a gear train that runs the watch. While all of this was very high tech, the Accutron movement is no plastic throwaway, It does use some glass-filled diallyl phthalate as an insulating material, but the plates are constructed the old-fashioned way, with beautifully machined brass and jeweled pivots. This gem-like quality gives the movement durability and reliability that was lacking in the competition. <br /> <br /> The Accutron was introduced in 1960 with great fanfare. The advertising firm of Interpublic, run by real mad man Jack Tinker, came up with the name and a series of ads that proclaimed the Accutron as the first new timekeeping device since the mechanical watch was invented and talked about it as a whole new concept, why you should wear an Accutron instead of a watch. Bulova used print and television advertising, with a notable commercial in which a clockmaker adjusts a tower clock in a village using his Accutron. Accuracy was guaranteed to within a minute a month, easily achieving a rating that was celebrated as &quot;Chronometer&quot; by the Swiss and suddenly made all other timekeepers seem quaint and old-fashioned by comparison.<br /> <br /> Spaceview<br /> <br /> Part of the rollout of the new watch included supplying dealers with special demonstrator models to show the new technology to the public. These watches were made without a dial. The markers were printed dots on the crystal and the white luminous hands provided contrast. These see-through demonstrators proved so popular that customers were begging dealers to sell their only one. To provide customer satisfaction, dealers began converting their standard Accutrons to this design. Bulova responded to this demand by creating the Spaceview as its own model. <br /> <br /> Astronaut<br /> <br /> Part of the Accutron plan was to develop high grade watches for the military. Bulova Chairman Omar Bradley was one of the most famous and well-respected generals of WWII and was the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Korean War. The Astronaut model was developed in 1962 as a GMT watch for pilots, with the hope of securing a contract for the newly-created NASA Space program. <br /> <br /> Models<br /> <br /> 214<br /> <br /> 218<br /> <br /> 219<br /> <br /> 224<br /> <br /> 2210</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Accutron&diff=530 2020-04-04T12:14:13Z

<p>Jed C: Created page with &quot;The Bulova Accutron wasn&#039;t the first electric watch. That honor goes to Hamilton. However, the Accutron is the first electronic watch, utilizing the brand new technology of tr...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>The Bulova Accutron wasn't the first electric watch. That honor goes to Hamilton. However, the Accutron is the first electronic watch, utilizing the brand new technology of transistors. It is also the first reliable battery powered watch, with many examples still running perfectly from the 1960s. These electric watches use a tuning fork to regulate the time. They make a delightful humming sound and have a mesmerizing constant sweep to their seconds hands. The Accutron was a significant achievement of American watchmaking. It solidified Bulova as a high quality and popular brand, giving the company financial strength that has allowed it to exist to this day, despite a decimation in most other areas of American manufacturing. <br /> <br /> History<br /> In 1952, Harry Henshel of Bulova was looking for a way to increase the accuracy of his watches. He hired Swiss electrical engineer Max Hetzel. Hetzel developed the Accutron movement, with the first prototypes being constructed in 1955 and the first watches released in 1960. <br /> <br /> Movement<br /> The Accutron 214 movement was truly a breakthrough in time keeping. Rather than using a conventional balance wheel and mainspring, power is transferred by a battery to the coils of a tuning fork. Attached to the tuning fork are two ultra-thin jeweled pawl fingers that rotate an index wheel with 360 impossibly tiny teeth. The index wheel is connected to a gear train that runs the watch. While all of this was very high tech, the Accutron movement is no plastic throwaway, It does use some glass-filled diallyl phthalate as an insulating material, but the plates are constructed the old-fashioned way, with beautifully machined brass and jeweled pivots. This gem-like quality gives the movement durability and reliability that was lacking in the competition. <br /> <br /> Models<br /> <br /> 214<br /> <br /> 218<br /> <br /> 219<br /> <br /> 224<br /> <br /> 2210</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=USA&diff=529 2020-04-04T11:43:37Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>*[[Benrus]]<br /> *[[Bulova]]<br /> *[[Elgin]]<br /> *[[Gruen]]<br /> *[[Hamilton]]<br /> *[[Waltham]]</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=527 2020-04-04T02:40:34Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Bulova center.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In the 1920s, the 23-jewel movement was considered one of the best in the world and really put the brand on the map. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. Despite the fact that Charles Lindbergh personally wore the Longines Hour Angle on his flight, Bulova capitalized on the famous trip with a series of Lone Eagle wristwatches. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> In 1949, Bulova became the first and only manufacturer to license the Motion Picture Academy Awards, by producing the Academy Award model, with Art Deco styling and a textured dial resembling stage curtains. <br /> Bulova created its own high quality automatic movement, dubbed &quot;Self Winding&quot; in the 1950s. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Designed by Swiss engineer Max Hetzel, the Accutron used the vibrations of a tuning fork to regulate the watch to high tolerances, advertising accuracy to within a minute per month and dazzling buyers with the Spaceview, which did away with the dial, showing the beauty of the first transistorized movement. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. For instance,all of the clocks in the Apollo spacecraft were Bulova Accutrons. In the decade of the 1960s, Bulova produced many diving watch variations, to appeal to confident postwar buyers with some disposable income to indulge in sporting leisure activities. In 1966, Bulova purchased the renowned Universal Geneve. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> During this time, Bulova sold chronographs with Swiss Valjoux movements, such as the Chonograph A or &quot;Surfboard&quot; and the Chronograph C or &quot;Stars and Stipes.&quot; Bulova also made watches featuring the Chrono-Matic movement. These chronographs were of extremely high quality and are very collectible today.<br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the quality standards slipped a bit during this time and even the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued after 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. Many Bulova watches from this period were made in thin gold plate, hurting their reputation as an upper-middle tier brand. From 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Lone Eagle<br /> <br /> *[[Academy Award]]<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Computron/Digitals<br /> <br /> Chronographs</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Bulova_center.jpg&diff=526 2020-04-04T02:40:24Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Bulova Corporate Center in Jackson Heights, Queens, NY</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Academy_Award&diff=525 2020-04-04T02:36:37Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:Academy.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 3.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 1.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 2.jpg|thumb]]<br /> The Motion Picture Academy has always been very protective over their naming rights and have had many legal battles with people exploiting it, even to the extent of one such case against someone making Oscar shaped Chocolates, who they sued.<br /> <br /> However in 1949 they licensed, for 4 years, [[Bulova]] to produce an exclusive line of watches which could be marketed under their name starting from 1950 to 1954, this was to cost [[Bulova]] $154,000 to use just the name and emblems associated with the Awards and nothing else<br /> <br /> Just a year later when Bulova tried to stretch their rights by advertising the watch as an &quot;Award Winning Design&quot; The Academy sued them with &quot;perpertrating a fraud&quot; arguing that Oscar's symbolic value had been diminished because people would assume that Bulova had earned an Oscar for &quot;best watch design&quot;.<br /> <br /> The Academy aligned with the Federal Trade Commission to break its contract with the company two years early, making this a very scarce item, popular with watch collectors and film memorabilia collectors alike. Academy models always have ribbed dials and cases, resembling stage curtains. They are always 21 Jewels, they are always dated to 1950-1951 with little variation.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Academy_Award&diff=524 2020-04-04T02:35:30Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:Academy.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 3.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 1.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 2.jpg|thumb]]<br /> The Motion Picture Academy has always been very protective over their naming rights and have had many legal battles with people exploiting it, even to the extent of one such case against someone making Oscar shaped Chocolates, who they sued.<br /> <br /> However in 1949 they licensed, for 4 years, Bulova to produce an exclusive line of watches which could be marketed under their name starting from 1950 to 1954, this was to cost Bulova $154,000 to use just the name and emblems associated with the Awards and nothing else<br /> <br /> Just a year later when Bulova tried to stretch their rights by advertising the watch as an &quot;Award Winning Design&quot; The Academy sued them with &quot;perpertrating a fraud&quot; arguing that Oscar's symbolic value had been diminished because people would assume that Bulova had earned an Oscar for &quot;best watch design&quot;.<br /> <br /> The Academy aligned with the Federal Trade Commission to break its contract with the company two years early, making this a very scarce item, popular with watch collectors and film memorabilia collectors alike. Academy models always have ribbed dials and cases, resembling stage curtains. They are always 21 Jewels, they are always dated to 1950-1951 with little variation.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Academy_Award_2.jpg&diff=523 2020-04-04T02:35:23Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Distinctive ribbed &quot;curtain&quot; dial</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Academy_Award_1.jpg&diff=522 2020-04-04T02:34:33Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Academy Ad</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Academy_Award&diff=521 2020-04-04T02:33:12Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:Academy.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Academy Award 3.jpg|thumb]]<br /> The Motion Picture Academy has always been very protective over their naming rights and have had many legal battles with people exploiting it, even to the extent of one such case against someone making Oscar shaped Chocolates, who they sued.<br /> <br /> However in 1949 they licensed, for 4 years, Bulova to produce an exclusive line of watches which could be marketed under their name starting from 1950 to 1954, this was to cost Bulova $154,000 to use just the name and emblems associated with the Awards and nothing else<br /> <br /> Just a year later when Bulova tried to stretch their rights by advertising the watch as an &quot;Award Winning Design&quot; The Academy sued them with &quot;perpertrating a fraud&quot; arguing that Oscar's symbolic value had been diminished because people would assume that Bulova had earned an Oscar for &quot;best watch design&quot;.<br /> <br /> The Academy aligned with the Federal Trade Commission to break its contract with the company two years early, making this a very scarce item, popular with watch collectors and film memorabilia collectors alike. Academy models always have ribbed dials and cases, resembling stage curtains. They are always 21 Jewels, they are always dated to 1950-1951 with little variation.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Academy_Award_3.jpg&diff=520 2020-04-04T02:33:03Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Academy Award Ad</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Academy_Award&diff=519 2020-04-04T02:32:02Z

<p>Jed C: Created page with &quot;thumb The Motion Picture Academy has always been very protective over their naming rights and have had many legal battles with people exploiting it, even...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>[[File:Academy.jpg|thumb]]<br /> The Motion Picture Academy has always been very protective over their naming rights and have had many legal battles with people exploiting it, even to the extent of one such case against someone making Oscar shaped Chocolates, who they sued.<br /> <br /> However in 1949 they licensed, for 4 years, Bulova to produce an exclusive line of watches which could be marketed under their name starting from 1950 to 1954, this was to cost Bulova $154,000 to use just the name and emblems associated with the Awards and nothing else....<br /> <br /> Just a year later when Bulova tried to stretch their rights by advertising the watch as an &quot;Award Winning Design&quot; The Academy sued them with &quot;perpertrating a fraud&quot; arguing that Oscar's symbolic value had been diminished because people would assume that Bulova had earned an Oscar for &quot;best watch design&quot;.<br /> <br /> The Academy aligned with the Federal Trade Commission to break its contract with the company two years early, making this a very scarce item, popular with watch collectors and film memorabilia collectors alike. Academy models always have ribbed dials and cases, resembling stage curtains. They are always 21 Jewels, they are always dated to 1950-1951 with little variation.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Academy.jpg&diff=518 2020-04-04T02:31:55Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Ad for Bulova Academy Award</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=517 2020-04-04T02:25:23Z

<p>Jed C: /* Important Models */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In the 1920s, the 23-jewel movement was considered one of the best in the world and really put the brand on the map. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. Despite the fact that Charles Lindbergh personally wore the Longines Hour Angle on his flight, Bulova capitalized on the famous trip with a series of Lone Eagle wristwatches. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> In 1949, Bulova became the first and only manufacturer to license the Motion Picture Academy Awards, by producing the Academy Award model, with Art Deco styling and a textured dial resembling stage curtains. <br /> Bulova created its own high quality automatic movement, dubbed &quot;Self Winding&quot; in the 1950s. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Designed by Swiss engineer Max Hetzel, the Accutron used the vibrations of a tuning fork to regulate the watch to high tolerances, advertising accuracy to within a minute per month and dazzling buyers with the Spaceview, which did away with the dial, showing the beauty of the first transistorized movement. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. For instance,all of the clocks in the Apollo spacecraft were Bulova Accutrons. In the decade of the 1960s, Bulova produced many diving watch variations, to appeal to confident postwar buyers with some disposable income to indulge in sporting leisure activities. In 1966, Bulova purchased the renowned Universal Geneve. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> During this time, Bulova sold chronographs with Swiss Valjoux movements, such as the Chonograph A or &quot;Surfboard&quot; and the Chronograph C or &quot;Stars and Stipes.&quot; Bulova also made watches featuring the Chrono-Matic movement. These chronographs were of extremely high quality and are very collectible today.<br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the quality standards slipped a bit during this time and even the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued after 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. Many Bulova watches from this period were made in thin gold plate, hurting their reputation as an upper-middle tier brand. From 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Lone Eagle<br /> <br /> *[[Academy Award]]<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Computron/Digitals<br /> <br /> Chronographs</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=516 2020-04-04T02:20:14Z

<p>Jed C: /* History of Bulova */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In the 1920s, the 23-jewel movement was considered one of the best in the world and really put the brand on the map. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. Despite the fact that Charles Lindbergh personally wore the Longines Hour Angle on his flight, Bulova capitalized on the famous trip with a series of Lone Eagle wristwatches. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> In 1949, Bulova became the first and only manufacturer to license the Motion Picture Academy Awards, by producing the Academy Award model, with Art Deco styling and a textured dial resembling stage curtains. <br /> Bulova created its own high quality automatic movement, dubbed &quot;Self Winding&quot; in the 1950s. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Designed by Swiss engineer Max Hetzel, the Accutron used the vibrations of a tuning fork to regulate the watch to high tolerances, advertising accuracy to within a minute per month and dazzling buyers with the Spaceview, which did away with the dial, showing the beauty of the first transistorized movement. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. For instance,all of the clocks in the Apollo spacecraft were Bulova Accutrons. In the decade of the 1960s, Bulova produced many diving watch variations, to appeal to confident postwar buyers with some disposable income to indulge in sporting leisure activities. In 1966, Bulova purchased the renowned Universal Geneve. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> During this time, Bulova sold chronographs with Swiss Valjoux movements, such as the Chonograph A or &quot;Surfboard&quot; and the Chronograph C or &quot;Stars and Stipes.&quot; Bulova also made watches featuring the Chrono-Matic movement. These chronographs were of extremely high quality and are very collectible today.<br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the quality standards slipped a bit during this time and even the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued after 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. Many Bulova watches from this period were made in thin gold plate, hurting their reputation as an upper-middle tier brand. From 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Lone Eagle<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Computron/Digitals<br /> <br /> Chronographs</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=515 2020-04-04T01:50:31Z

<p>Jed C: /* Important Models */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses, for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. Bulova came to own Universal Geneve in 1966. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued in 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. from 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Lone Eagle<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Computron/Digitals<br /> <br /> Chronographs</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=514 2020-04-04T01:42:55Z

<p>Jed C: /* Locations */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses, for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. Bulova came to own Universal Geneve in 1966. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued in 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. from 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> <br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> <br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=513 2020-04-04T01:41:21Z

<p>Jed C: /* Locations */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses, for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. Bulova came to own Universal Geneve in 1966. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued in 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. from 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY&lt;hr&gt;<br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=512 2020-04-04T01:40:21Z

<p>Jed C: /* Locations */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses, for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. Bulova came to own Universal Geneve in 1966. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued in 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. from 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> Original headquarters, 580 5th Ave NY, NY<br /> Bulova Corporate Center, Queens, NY<br /> Bulova movement factory, Woodside NY <br /> Bulova movement factory, Biel Switzerland<br /> Bulova Case making factory, Sag Harbor NY <br /> Bulova, Providence RI<br /> Bulova, Virgin Islands<br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=511 2020-04-04T01:31:52Z

<p>Jed C: /* History of Bulova */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Joseph-bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:580 5th ave.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Arde Bulova.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Max Hetzel.jpg|thumb]]<br /> [[File:Harry Henshel and Omar Bradley.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian (Czech) immigrant Joseph Bulova in New York City, USA. The original company produced pocket watches and small clocks. In 1912, Bulova opened its factory in Biel Switzerland. In 1919, they released a line of men's wristwatches. In 1923, their company reincorporated as Bulova Watch Co. and in 1924, introduced the first line of women's wristwatches. In 1926, as a promotional effort, he offered a prize of $1,000 to the pilot who first succeeded in a nonstop flight across the Atlantic. In 1927, Bulova Watch Co. went public on the American Stock Exchange and established Bulova Canada. <br /> <br /> In 1930, Joseph's son, Arde Bulova, assumed the title of chairman of the board, and in 1941, he proposed to manufacture national defense products such as precision military watches, aircraft instruments, and torpedo fuses, for the government at cost. Following the war, he established, through the Bulova Foundation, the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to aid in the rehabilitating of disabled veterans. In 1950, he established the Bulova Research &amp; Development Laboratory which provided guidance systems, infrared sensors, and electronic systems for the military. <br /> <br /> After Arde's death at 68 in 1958, his nephew, Harry Henshel, became president of the company. During WWII, Henshel was First Officer to General Omar Bradley. Bradley was invited to be Bulova's charman, a post he accepted until Henshel succeeded him in 1974. During this time, the revolutionary Accutron tuning fork electric watch was introduced and became a great success. Bulova became involved in producing watches and clocks for the space program, due to Bradley's connections and the superiority of the Accutron movement. Bulova came to own Universal Geneve in 1966. In the early 1970s, Citizen of Japan, collaborated with Bulova and used Accutron movements for their Hisonic line of watches. <br /> <br /> In 1973, Gulf + Western Industries, one of the pioneering conglomerates, bought 29% of Bulova. After running into losses as the result of late introduction of the LED digital watch and inflation of the Swiss Franc, G+W sold their shares to Hong Kong-based Stelux Corporation in 1976. Stelux was a major producer of watch bracelets. CP Wong was brought in as the Chief Executive. Under Stelux ownership, it was hoped that more Bulova watches would be sold in the far east and that there would be synergies that would help both companies. Unfortunately, the classic Accutron movement had been discontinued in 1977. After 4 million tuning fork watches, Accutrons were switched over to a quartz movement provided by Citizen. from 1976-78, losses totaled 48 million and Mr. Wong resigned from the company. <br /> <br /> In 1979, Bulova was purchased by Laurence Tisch of Loews Coproation. A close friend of Harry Henshel, Tisch put his son Andrew in charge while Henshel remained as chairman. In the 1980s and 1990s, they returned Bulova to profitablity. One of the first steps was to improve the quality of the watches, actually buying back unsold new stock in 1982 and replacing it with better watches. <br /> <br /> In 2008, Loews sold Bulova to Citizen, a longtime partner, for $250 million. Under Citizen ownership, Bulova returned to its roots with the 50th Anniversary Spaceview in 2010, lovingly recreating the legendary tuning fork movement. Other reissues followed, with the Stars and Stripes chronograph, the Devil Diver and the Surfboard chronograph.<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Harry_Henshel_and_Omar_Bradley.jpg&diff=510 2020-04-04T00:38:46Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Bulova chairman Omar Bradley (L) and Harry Henshel</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Max_Hetzel.jpg&diff=509 2020-04-04T00:37:12Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Max Hetzel, inventor of the Bulova Accutron tuning fork movement.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Arde_Bulova.jpg&diff=508 2020-04-04T00:35:34Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Adolf (Arde) Bulova 1887-1958, son of the founder</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:580_5th_ave.jpg&diff=507 2020-04-04T00:30:17Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Original Bulova headquarters on the corner of 5th Ave and 47th St in New York City, still standing.</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Joseph-bulova.jpg&diff=506 2020-04-04T00:19:43Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Joseph Bulova, company founder (1851-1935)</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=497 2020-04-03T19:01:22Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1923 by Czech immigrant Joseph Bulova<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> *[[Accutron]]<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=496 2020-04-03T19:00:47Z

<p>Jed C: /* History of Bulova */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> Bulova was founded in 1923 by Czech immigrant Joseph Bulova<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> Accutron<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=495 2020-04-03T18:58:04Z

<p>Jed C: /* History of Bulova */</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> [[File:Bulova Logo.jpg|thumb]]<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> Accutron<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=File:Bulova_Logo.jpg&diff=494 2020-04-03T18:57:42Z

<p>Jed C: </p> <hr /> <div>Current logo of Bulova</div>

Jed C https://chronopedia.club/index.php?title=Bulova&diff=493 2020-04-03T18:55:02Z

<p>Jed C: Created page with &quot;==History of Bulova== ==Locations== ==Important Models== 23J Academy Award Self-Winding Accutron Military Diver Watches Chronographs Quartz/Later models&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>==History of Bulova==<br /> <br /> ==Locations==<br /> <br /> <br /> ==Important Models==<br /> <br /> 23J<br /> <br /> Academy Award<br /> <br /> Self-Winding<br /> <br /> Accutron<br /> <br /> Military<br /> <br /> Diver Watches<br /> <br /> Chronographs<br /> <br /> Quartz/Later models</div>

Jed C