Accutron has created its new Astronaut model based on the 1968 "T" version. The 2023 edition, which is limited to only 300 pieces and retails for $3,500 each, is Swiss made and features a 41mm stainless steel body and a partial exhibition case back to view the internal movement. The dial is fitted with Super-LumiNova hands and markers to enhance its function in low light and the watch brings back the Day/Night bezel as was part of the original vintage design.
The new Astronaut forgoes the tuning fork mechanism that made it famous, but uses a more modern Swiss Sellita GMT mechanical movement.
Gordon Eliot Reade Member
Posts: 208 From: California Registered: Jun 2015
posted 02-09-2023 11:26 AM
A nice looking watch and I wouldn't mind owning one. However I'm confused. If it has a mechanical movement how is it an Accutron?
It's like putting a V-8 engine in a Tesla. Is it still a Tesla?
Robert Pearlman Editor
Posts: 49968 From: Houston, TX Registered: Nov 1999
posted 02-09-2023 12:26 PM
Michael Benavente, managing director of Bulova, discusses the choice of mechanical movement in Episode 30 of The Springbar Podcast. He explains the decision to go mechanical was for multiple reasons, including the lack of tuning fork movements available today, the difficulty in servicing them, the popularity of mechanical movements and a desire to pay tribute to Bulova's Swiss history.
He notes though, that is just meant to be the first in a new line of Astronaut models, and that future releases might include a tuning fork movement "somewhere down the road."
JohnPaul56 Member
Posts: 276 From: Montclair, NJ, USA Registered: Apr 2010
posted 02-09-2023 12:32 PM
$3,500 is a lot of money for a Sellita movement!!!
Gordon Eliot Reade Member
Posts: 208 From: California Registered: Jun 2015
posted 02-16-2023 06:28 AM
Not when you consider that it's a limited run of 300.
JohnPaul56 Member
Posts: 276 From: Montclair, NJ, USA Registered: Apr 2010
posted 02-16-2023 05:12 PM
I'm curious to see if Bulova doesn't include this watch in their regular line.
When Omega launched the Speedmaster, First Omega in Space, it was limited to 1,962 pieces, in honor of the year of Wally's Mercury flight. I managed to get one, but then Omega continued making the watch and included it in the Speedmaster line until December, 2020, when it was discontinued.
Watch companies are notorious for launching limited edition watches, and then due to demand will add it to their regular line-up.
posted 02-07-2023 08:00 AM
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