Perhaps it is the impressive legibility that really interests me. The silvered semi-glossy dial has applied hour markers which are flat polished so that they don’t glare. The hands are lumed and a nice size as well. The seconds hand has the traditional Accutron turning fork logo as a counterweight and is done in a blued color which makes the dial look very handsome. Further details, such as the framed, tapering symmetrical date window at 6 o’clock, are a welcome touch.
Over the dial is a mineral crystal, which I normally don’t prefer over sapphire crystal, but at this price level I don’t mind. The case is only water resistant to 30 meters, but given that this not a sports watch, that isn’t a big deal. Bulova has a good range of Accutron II sport watches with the same movement for those interested in something more equipped for activity. As a simple dress watch with a lot of utility and some character, there isn’t too much more I could hope for.
Attached to the case of the Bulova Accutron II Surveyor is a simple black leather strap attached to a rather substantial buckle that has the Accutron II logo. It is a cool, albeit unexpected part of the package. Having said that, what I really like about the ref. 96B213 watch, and its similar cousins is the simplicity. This is a basic watch with a special movement that in some ways is a precision instrument dressed like a formal timepiece.
The comfortable case and reliable movement of the Bulova Accutron II Surveyor offers a wearability that was not available with the first generation of Precisionist watches, given their size and enthusiastically modern designs. With Accutron II, Bulova has finally succeeded in bringing Precisionist into the mainstream. Watch lovers should be impressed by the movement and the price, and lay people will no doubt like the sweeping seconds hand, accuracy, and good looks wrapped up in one very easy to swallow package. Retail price for the Bulova Accutron II Surveyor 96B213 watch is $450. bulova.com
Necessary Data
>Brand: Bulova
>Model: Accutron II Surveyor (ref. 96B213 as reviewed)
>Price: $450 USD
>Size: 41mm
>Would reviewer personally wear it: Yes
>Friend we’d recommend it to first: Dress watch wearer who can’t decided between the elegance of a mechanical watch and the reliability of a quartz one.
>Best characteristic of watch: Solid value for a well-executed package with a mainstream look but lots of talking points.
>Worst characteristic of watch: Crystal could benefit from more AR coating. Logo on strap buckle might be a bit sharp for some.
