A rare and exquisitely detailed 1928 Bulova Art Deco ladies watch. With a case crafted in solid 14K white gold, this piece represents the height of Bulova’s late-1920s fine jewelry craftsmanship.

The tonneau-shaped case is finely hand-engraved with geometric Art Deco motifs and accented by two diamonds and four natural emeralds, adding subtle brilliance to its crisp white gold frame. At its heart is Bulova’s calibre 6AP, 15-jewel manual-wind movement; clean, reliable, and indicative of the brand’s precision during its Fifth Avenue Observatory era.

The caseback bears a romantic period dedication, “Red to Vera 12-25-28,” dating the watch precisely to Christmas 1928. This engraving not only confirms its era but adds emotional provenance, transforming a rare watch into a tangible love story from the Art Deco age.

Completing the piece is its period-correct filigree stainless steel expansion bracelet, composed of intricately engraved shadow-box panels featuring dogwood blossoms; a quintessential 1920s floral motif. The bracelet’s design mirrors the case’s delicate symmetry and the dogwood flower-engraved crown, resulting in a unified and authentically vintage presentation. The bracelet measures 5.75 inches at rest. Because it’s an original late-1920s expansion bracelet, it’s designed to stretch and fit snugly. It comfortably accommodates wrists up to about 6.5 inches. These Deco bracelets were meant to wear close to the skin so the watch stays centered on the wrist.

Features & Details

Maker: Bulova
Year: 1928
Movement: Bulova calibre 6AP, 15 jewels, manual wind
Case: Solid 14K white gold, hand-engraved
Gemstones: Two diamonds, four emeralds
Bracelet: Period filigree stainless steel expansion bracelet with dogwood shadow-box panels
Engraving: “Red to Vera 12-25-28” (dated Christmas 1928)
Condition: Excellent vintage condition; movement winds and runs, gemstones intact, crisp case engraving, light wear consistent with age. Crystal is likely a replacement; does not have a celluloid dust cover.
Provenance: Low-production solid gold case model, uncataloged in period ads, confirming boutique-level rarity.