The Bulova Men’s Archive Series Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch is a remarkable timepiece. It’s known for its historical significance and impressive features.
This watch is modeled after the one worn on the moon during the Apollo 15 mission. With its high-performance quartz movement and sleek design, it stands out in the world of watches.
One user shared their excitement about the watch’s accuracy and design. They mentioned how the watch looks even better in person and have enjoyed wearing it every day.
Another user appreciated the watch’s historical background and detailed craftsmanship. They found the watch comfortable and suitable for daily wear, though they noted the lume could be brighter.
Historical Significance
The Bulova Men’s Archive Series Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch is not just any watch; it has a rich history. This watch is a replica of the only other timepiece besides the Omega Speedmaster that was worn on the Moon. It was worn by astronaut David Scott during the Apollo 15 mission. This historical connection adds a unique charm and significance to the watch, making it a collector’s item.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Bulova Lunar Pilot is both functional and stylish. It features a mostly bead-blasted texture with a brushed finish on the bezel, giving it a tool-like appearance. The sapphire crystal is a thick, flat slab that slightly protrudes above the bezel, adding to its rugged look. The pushers for the chronograph functions are designed as levers operating in slots milled in the case, adding to the watch’s precision and durability.
High Performance
This watch uses Bulova’s UHF quartz movement, which vibrates 8 times faster than conventional quartz watches. This provides extreme accuracy of approximately 10 seconds per year. The central chronograph seconds hand moves very smoothly, and the running seconds hand on the subdial at six o’clock ticks every half-second, not every second like most quartz watches. This makes the Bulova Lunar Pilot incredibly accurate and reliable.
Comfort and Wearability
Despite its large size, the Bulova Lunar Pilot is comfortable to wear. The leather strap has a unique texture that resembles carbon fiber or a basket weave, which becomes more flexible and comfortable within a day or so of wearing. The watch also comes with an extra Velcro strap similar to those used by NASA, making it versatile for different occasions.
Durability
The Bulova Lunar Pilot is built to last. The sapphire crystal is highly resistant to scratches, and the case remains pristine even after daily wear. The watch is also water-resistant, making it suitable for everyday use in various environments. This durability ensures that the watch can withstand the rigors of daily life while maintaining its elegance.
Legibility
The high contrast between the white lumed hands and markers and the black dial makes the Bulova Lunar Pilot easy to read. However, the lume is not very bright and dims quickly, which might be a drawback for those who need to read the time in the dark frequently. Despite this, the overall legibility of the watch in normal lighting conditions is excellent.
Size and Fit
The watch is physically large, with a case diameter of 45 mm and a length of 53 mm from lug-to-lug. While this may seem big, it is fashionable and not overly large for most people. For those with smaller wrists, the size might be a concern, but it generally fits well and looks balanced on the wrist.
Value for Money
The Bulova Lunar Pilot offers a lot of value for its price. With its historical significance, high-performance quartz movement, and durable build, it is a great investment for watch enthusiasts. The watch’s unique features and design make it worth every penny, especially if purchased on sale.
Versatility
This watch is versatile enough to be worn in various settings, from casual to formal. The leather strap gives it a classic look, while the extra Velcro strap adds a sporty touch. Whether you’re at work, a social event, or engaging in outdoor activities, the Bulova Lunar Pilot fits right in.
Customer Reviews
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 reviews, the Bulova Lunar Pilot has received positive feedback from customers. Users praise its design, accuracy, and historical significance. Some reviews mention the lume as a minor drawback, but overall, the watch is highly recommended by its owners.
Pros:
- The watch is historically significant as it is a replica of the only other watch known to be worn on the Moon besides the Omega Speedmaster.
- It offers high precision with an accuracy of about 10 seconds per year due to Bulova’s UHF quartz movement.
- The watch’s design is both functional and stylish, featuring a bead-blasted texture and a thick sapphire crystal.
Cons:
- The lume on the watch is not very effective, making it hard to read in the dark.
- The watch is quite large, which might not be comfortable for people with smaller wrists.
- The sapphire crystal protrudes slightly above the bezel, making it prone to chipping if not handled carefully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bulova Archive Series Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch offers a unique blend of history, accuracy, and design. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate both style and functionality.
With numerous positive reviews and a reasonable price, this watch is a valuable addition to any collection. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or looking for a special gift, the Bulova Archive Series is worth considering.
Questions & Answers:
Question: What is the band width of the Bulova Men’s Lunar Pilot Watch?
Answer: The band width of the Bulova Men’s Lunar Pilot Watch is 20mm, not 22mm as some descriptions might state.
Question: How accurate is the Bulova Men’s Lunar Pilot Watch?
Answer: The watch is extremely accurate, with a deviation of only about 10 seconds per year thanks to its UHF quartz movement.
Question: Is the watch suitable for small wrists?
Answer: The watch has a 45mm diameter and might look quite large on smaller wrists. It is best suited for medium to larger wrists.
