The Bulova MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 Reissue is based on an extraordinarily rare 1957 U.S. Navy prototype developed for military frogmen under the MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 specification. Although the watch performed well during Navy testing and was poised for production, Bulova ultimately abandoned the project, leaving only a handful of prototypes known to exist today. The modern reissue faithfully revives the original design, including its distinctive moisture indicator and military-inspired dive watch aesthetic.

The project was largely brought to life through the efforts of renowned collector Adam Victor, a leading authority on vintage military dive watches and Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. After acquiring several original prototypes and introducing their history to Bulova, Victor worked closely with the brand to ensure the reissue remained as true to the original as possible. As he notes, the watch is less a reissue than the commercial launch of a design that never reached production in its own era. This example is the higher grade of the two versions released housing a Sellita movement comes as a complete set with no notable wear.

Dial: Flawless. Bezel: No marks. Hands: Are matching. Case: Shows no notable wear. Correct signed crown. Bracelet: Factory single pass woven strap in black. Crystal: Clear. Accessories: Complete set with inner and outer boxes, warranty papers, diving helmet, booklets, serialized tag, tool and two extra straps. The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 2021 Reference: MIL-SHIPS-W-2181 Serial: 06XX/1000 Dimensions: 41mm wide, 51mm lug to lug, 16mm lug width, 16mm thickness. Movement: Automatic Sellita.