Behold, the newest Bulova of the brand's Archive Series, a new Lunar Pilot chronograph that presents its boldest colourway yet. A striking red dial inspired by the hue of the moon during a lunar eclipse, also referred to as "blood moon".
Bulova secured its place in history when Apollo 15 Commander David R. Scott wore a Lunar Pilot on the moon's surface. The Apollo 15 lunar module landed in the Hadley–Apennine region on 30th July 1971, and stayed there until 2nd August. During this period, Scott and Lunar Module Pilot James Irwin spent over 18 hours exploring the moon through four extravehicular activities (EVAs).
During the second EVA, the crystal of Scott's Speedmaster popped off due to pressure differences. For the rest of the mission, Scott used his personal Bulova chronograph, the design of which inspired the modern Lunar Pilot. This event marked the Bulova chronograph as the only watch other than the NASA-certified Speedmaster to be worn on the lunar surface.
The fact that this was the astronaut's personal watch makes the story even more compelling. Clearly, the Bulova proved itself capable. There are legends of other watches being involved in the U.S. space programme unofficially, and the fact that a mission commander carried his own personal watch (a prototype by Bulova with a Universal Genève movement) as a backup supports these rumours. The Bulova watch worn by David Scott on the moon was auctioned in 2015 for £1.6 million.
The dial features a classic symmetrical three-register layout within a steel cushion case measuring 44mm in diameter. One of the watch's unique aspects is its long, slim pushers above and below the crown. Instead of round button pushers, Bulova opted for long lever-like pushers, theoretically making them easier to use by pressing the side of the case. This distinctive feature remains on modern versions.
The most significant change is on the inside. Universal Genève is no longer a subsidiary of Bulova, and while a hand-wound mechanical movement would be cool, Bulova uses an exclusive high-precision quartz movement resonating at 262kHz (marked on the dial at 6 o'clock, a detail that could be omitted). The standout feature is the vibrant red dial, which surprisingly complements the design that hasn't changed much since the '70s. The watch is fitted with a steel three-link bracelet and also includes a black leather strap with red stitching.
Don't miss your chance to own a piece of horological history. Visit your nearest Bulova retailer or the official Bulova website to purchase this remarkable Lunar Pilot "Blood Moon" edition and wear a legend on your wrist.