Bulova watches made between 1950 and 2009 are marked with a two-digit alpha-numeric date code. This code is typically found on the outside backcase of the watch, just below the serial number. Opening the watch should not be necessary. Note that these codes only specify the manufacture date of the watch.

How do you set the date on a Bulova watch?

Spin the crown to change the date before pressing it in completely. Rotate the crown clockwise to increase the date. Keep turning it until the correct date is displayed. Once you have the correct date, push the crown in completely so the watch starts running again.

How do I find out what brand my watch is?

The dial will normally tell you the watch brand and sometimes even its model name. The manufacturer can usually be found beneath the hour marker at 12 oclock. With any luck, there will also be a clue as to the model above 6 oclock. This will come in the form of the model name or the movement (e.g., “Automatic”).