Pros
Accurate UHF quartz movement with 10 seconds/year accuracy
Unique historical significance as a replica of the watch worn on the Moon
Stylish design with high legibility and three-dimensional dial
High-quality materials including a sapphire crystal and bead blasted stainless steel case
Good value for money with additional straps and tools included
Comfortable for everyday wear despite being large
Includes a detailed presentation box and certificate of authenticity
Cons
Large size may not suit everyone, particularly those with smaller wrists
NATO strap is too large for some users and difficult to set up
Lume is not very bright or long-lasting
Main Product Advantages
10 Historical Significance
The Bulova Men's Archive Series Lunar Pilot is a replica of the prototype worn by Apollo 15 astronaut David Scott on the Moon, making it the only other watch to have been used on the lunar surface besides the Omega Speedmaster.
10 Accuracy and Movement
The watch features Bulova's UHF quartz movement that provides extreme accuracy of approximately 10 seconds per year, with a central chronograph seconds hand that moves very smoothly.
10 Legibility
Highly legible with large hands and clear markers, aided by high contrast and lume, although the lume fades more quickly than some might prefer.
9 Build Quality
Excellent build quality with a bead-blasted stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and well-executed chronograph pushers. High attention to detail on the dial and overall craftsmanship.
9 Styling and Design
The watch has a functional, tool-like aesthetic with a bead-blasted finish, raised and recessed dial details, and high contrast with white lumed hands and markers on a black dial for good legibility.
9 Packaging and Extras
Comes in a robust presentation box with extra velcro strap similar to NASA’s, a tool for changing straps, and a certificate of authenticity.
9 Value for Money
Offers a lot of value with its historical backstory, distinctive design, and high accuracy, all at a price point much lower than other famous 'moon watches' like the Omega Speedmaster.
8 Size and Wearability
The case is larger than the original at 45mm, which may be too large for some wrists but generally fits well and matches current fashion trends for large watches.
8 Comfort
Comfortable for everyday wear with included high-quality leather and nylon straps, although its heavier weight may be noticeable during physical activities.
7 Versatility
Water-resistant to 50 meters but not highly suited for water sports or very active lifestyles. Lacks bezel protection for the sapphire crystal.
Bulova Men's Archive Series Lunar Pilot 6-Hand Chronograph High Performance Quartz Stainless Steel and Black Nylon Strap Watch Set, Sapphire Crystal Style: 96B251
The Bulova Men's Archive Series Lunar Pilot is a homage to the timepiece worn during the Apollo 15 mission by Commander Dave Scott. Custom-built for lunar conditions, this chronograph is a part of Bulova's historic contributions to space exploration. Now, it's updated with Bulova’s exclusive high performance quartz movement, providing unparalleled accuracy at a frequency of 262 kHz.
Design and Build
This watch is crafted from stainless steel, featuring a curved mineral crystal and a multi-layered black carbon fiber dial. The chronograph measures hours, minutes, seconds, 1/10-seconds, 1/100-seconds, and 1/1,000-seconds. The design includes a yellow continuously sweeping second hand, luminous hour and minute hands, and luminous markers. It also boasts a tachymeter, calendar window, and is water-resistant up to 300 meters.
Movement and Accuracy
Bulova's proprietary Precisionist-class torsional resonator movement is at the heart of this timepiece. It uses a three-prong quartz crystal with a vibration frequency of 262.144 kHz, making it the most accurate quartz movement in the world. Laboratory testing has shown that this movement is three times more accurate than standard quartz. The floating second hand and reduced gravitational error enhance its unrivaled performance.
Usability
This chronograph is easy to read with its four subdials displaying cumulative time at a glance. The watch also features individual measurements for 1/10- and 1/100-second, as well as hour and minute dials, and a distinctive 1/1,000-second track with retrograde indicator. The screw-back case and screw-down crown ensure durability and water resistance.
Straps and Packaging
The set comes with a stainless steel bracelet and two interchangeable black leather and nylon straps, providing versatility. The secure double-press fold-over clasp with safety lock offers reliability and comfort.
Conclusion
The Bulova Men's Archive Series Lunar Pilot Chronograph combines historical significance, advanced technology, and superior craftsmanship. Whether you appreciate its space exploration heritage or its precise timekeeping abilities, this watch stands as a testament to Bulova's commitment to innovation and excellence in horology.
