Track Time, Tell Stories: Bulova’s Vintage Icons Hit the Auction Block with eBay

Bulova’s deep ties to automotive racing stretch back to a golden age of American industry and innovation. In the 1960s and ’70s, the brand was a fixture on the track—serving as the official timekeeper for major events including NASCAR and IndyCar. Known for its relentless pursuit of precision, Bulova developed cutting-edge timekeeping tools that kept pace with the fastest machines on earth. The company’s watches didn’t just keep time—they captured it, marking victories, pit stops, and qualifying laps with absolute accuracy. Bulova even sponsored drivers and teams, becoming synonymous with speed, engineering, and innovation.

Fast forward to 2025, and that legacy is back in the spotlight.

On Wednesday, June 4th at 8 PM Pacific, Bulova and eBay are teaming up for a one-night-only celebration of the brand’s 150th anniversary at the Shelby Heritage Center in Las Vegas. The event includes a presale auction for a new, exclusive Bulova Shelby Cobra edition, as well as a curated lineup of vintage Bulova timepieces—each with a starting bid of just $1.

Here’s a look at the standout vintage watches going up for grabs:

1969 Bulova SkyStar World Time M9

A standout for the globetrotting collector, this 38mm automatic features a crisp white dial, day-date window, and a vintage Bakelite bezel with global cities for quick time zone reference. Light wear adds to its character, but the original functionality remains intact.

1960 Bulova BF Goodrich Tire Watch (NOS)

Housed in a tire-shaped case, this novelty watch celebrates Bulova’s promotional partnership with BF Goodrich. The clean dial and BF Goodrich branding make it a cross-collector gem—perfect for fans of both vintage horology and classic automotive branding. And as a NOS (new old stock) piece, it’s untouched and unworn.

1951 Bulova Fancy Lug Dress Watch

This early-’50s manual wind piece pairs a rose gold-tone case with elegant “fancy” lugs and a warm salmon dial. A refined statement piece from a more formal era, still ticking with vintage charm and mechanical soul.

1972 Bulova Oceanographer Automatic

A quintessential ’70s daily driver, this dive watch is funky fresh and would be a reliable choice even today. The automatic movement still runs strong, even if it hasn’t seen a recent service. A solid pick for someone looking to experience vintage without over-polishing the past.

1950 Bulova “Her Excellency” Ladies’ Cocktail Watch

Delicate and dignified, this 10K gold-filled piece showcases the elegance of mid-century ladies’ design. The 6BA movement—complete with 21 jewels—keeps time with mechanical grace, while the case and dial retain their original luster.

1973 Bulova Snorkel 666ft “Devil Diver”

A true collector favorite. Nicknamed for its 666-foot water resistance, this automatic diver is known for its durability and bold personality. Features include a bidirectional bezel, luminous hands and markers, and a no-nonsense steel case—built for the deep, but just as at home on dry land.

1945 Bulova ORD DEPT 10AK Military Watch

Issued to U.S. troops in WWII, this field watch features the durable 10AK movement and government “ORD DEPT” markings. Built under wartime mandate, it’s a rugged reminder of Bulova’s contributions to the war effort—and a museum-worthy addition to any serious vintage collection.

This upcoming event is more than an auction—it’s a celebration of Bulova’s multifaceted legacy in both motorsports and American watchmaking. Whether you’re bidding on a Shelby Cobra reissue or snagging a $1 starting-bid vintage gem, the collection offers something rare: a chance to wear history without breaking the bank.

The collaborative event between eBay and Bulova at JCK/Antique highlights the breadth and depth of eBay’s assortment, showcasing its unique ability to offer inventory that shoppers can’t find anywhere else. This partnership serves as a proof point of eBay’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional access to rare and sought-after items. Additionally, the auction exemplifies one of the many dynamic ways shoppers can explore eBay’s selection, demonstrating the power and reach of its live commerce platform, eBay Live.

As Bulova toasts 150 years of innovation, these watches serve as time capsules—each with its own story, its own scars, and its own connection to the roads, racetracks, and wrists of the past.

Photography by Neall Brick