BULOVA Snorkel "K" ref.11403K M7 cal.11ALAC / 1967 Diver

— A modern exterior, and a modern design —

The Bulova Snorkel "K," a diver's model produced and sold for a single year only, in 1967.

The 37 × 43mm case carries a rotating Bakelite bezel, and the sunburst silver dial has turned toward a vivid honey colour.

The contrast between the fully burnt tritium indexes and the lollipop seconds hand holds the eye.

A rare model made for only one year, in 1967: the Snorkel "K." A silver dial aged to an exquisite honey tone. A rotating Bakelite bezel and a lollipop seconds hand with real presence. A robust screw-down case rated to 666 feet, about 200 metres. Fitted with the dependable automatic Cal.11ALAC — a supreme collector's piece carrying mid-century design thinking.

— Rugged construction, sharp markings —

A Bulova-signed crown, and sharp, clearly defined markings.

A substantial screw-down caseback, struck with the symbol and with the date code M7 indicating 1967.

Water resistance is 666 feet — around 200 metres — a specification that could fairly be called excessive for the general market of the day.

— Cal.11ALAC —

Inside is Cal.11ALAC, a high-quality movement in the Bulova tradition.

Fitted to the Sea Flight and Snorkel series Bulova ran at the time, it has the durability and serviceability that military and diver's models demand.

— Mid-century design thinking —

In the fiercely competitive diver's market of the period, Bulova was in a transitional phase of experimenting with materials and design.

The Bakelite bezel and the unusual "666 feet" rating were experimental, and the model was short-lived because the following year brought a new line.

The distinctive layout that stands for the mid-century is alive here, and at this size it could hardly sit badly on the wrist.

It had more than enough appeal to establish its standing as a collector's item today.