For the watch enthusiast seeking something truly distinctive, the bullhead chronograph stands out with its unique personality and rich history. Characterized by its crown and pushers positioned at the top of the case, resembling the horns of a bull, this design was originally favored for its ergonomic benefits during timing operations. Today, it represents a bold and unconventional choice for collectors who appreciate vintage-inspired mechanics and modern, sporty aesthetics alike.
This layout not only offers a striking visual departure from traditional watch faces but also provides a comfortable, intuitive experience for using the chronograph functions. From high-end luxury pieces to accessible mechanical marvels, the bullhead configuration continues to capture imaginations. Our roundup curates a selection of eight standout models you can find online, showcasing the diverse range of styles and features available within this niche category.
Our Recommended Bullhead Watches
- Omega Seamaster Bullhead Automatic Silver Dial Black Leather Strap
- Armitron Sport Men’s 408159BLK Chronograph Black Strap Digital Watch
- RED Star Bull Head Chronograph Men Super Luminous 1963 ST1901
- MUKEMAO Red Star Pilot Chronograph 1963 ST1901 Movement
- GLENAW Skeleton Automatic Watches for Men – Mechanical Self-Winding
- About Vintage 1815 Chronograph Mens Watch, Stainless Steel
- Bullhead Bull-001 Analog Digital Watch with Tachymeter
- Bullhead Bull-004 Classic Bullhead Design Watch
Omega Seamaster Bullhead Automatic Silver Dial Black Leather Strap
The Omega Seamaster Bullhead represents a pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking, blending a revered heritage with a truly unique case architecture. This model features a sophisticated silver dial that provides excellent legibility for its central chronograph minutes and hours, along with a small seconds sub-dial. Housed in a robust stainless steel case, it is powered by a high-precision automatic movement known for its reliability and performance.
Paired with a classic black leather strap, this watch offers a versatile aesthetic that works for both formal and casual occasions. The distinct bullhead configuration ensures that the crown and pushers are easily accessible without interfering with wrist movement. It is a statement piece for the collector who values historical significance and top-tier craftsmanship.
Armitron Sport Men’s 408159BLK Chronograph Black Strap Digital Watch
For a sporty and affordable take on the bullhead style, the Armitron Sport chronograph delivers practical functionality. Its black resin case and slip-through nylon band with textured rubber accents are built for durability and comfort during active use. The dial features a digital display alongside analog-style hands, with orange accents providing a pop of color for enhanced visibility.
This watch is powered by a reliable quartz movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping with minimal maintenance. The screw-down case and acrylic crystal offer a good level of protection for daily wear and athletic activities. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a rugged, feature-packed watch with the distinctive bullhead look.
RED Star Bull Head Chronograph Men Super Luminous 1963 ST1901
This RED Star model is a direct homage to vintage pilot’s chronographs, featuring the celebrated ST1901 manual-winding movement. The mechanical heart of this watch is a spectacle, visible through the display case back, and features 21 jewels and a gooseneck spring for precise regulation. The gradient green dial is complemented by strong luminous hands and scales, ensuring readability in various lighting conditions.
With a 42mm 316L stainless steel case and a distinctive 3D bubble mirror, the watch has substantial wrist presence. It comes with both a stainless steel bracelet and a genuine leather strap, offering flexibility to match your style. For the mechanical watch enthusiast on a budget, this piece offers remarkable value and authentic chronograph operation.
MUKEMAO Red Star Pilot Chronograph 1963 ST1901 Movement
Similar in spirit to the previous model, the MUKEMAO offering is another excellent interpretation of the classic 1963 bullhead chronograph. It is also equipped with the manual-winding ST1901 movement, known for its smooth chronograph action and 40-hour power reserve. The watch features a display back, allowing you to observe the intricate mechanics at work.
Built with a 316L stainless steel case and a 3D bubble mirror, it includes luminous hands and a 30-meter water resistance rating suitable for daily use. The package is completed with both a steel bracelet and a brown leather strap, making it a versatile and compelling option for those who appreciate historical mechanical designs.
GLENAW Skeleton Automatic Watches for Men
The GLENAW Skeleton Automatic presents a modern and intricate take on the bullhead form. Its main attraction is the fully skeletonized dial, which offers a captivating view of the self-winding mechanical movement inside. The watch operates without a battery, powered by the natural motion of your wrist, though it can also be manually wound.
With a 43mm case and a 30-meter water resistance rating, it is built for daily wear. The exhibition of the gears and springs through the dial adds a layer of technical artistry, appealing to those who are fascinated by the inner workings of their timepieces. It’s a contemporary mechanical watch that doesn’t shy away from showing off its complexity.
About Vintage 1815 Chronograph Mens Watch
The About Vintage 1815 Chronograph offers a more refined and minimalist interpretation of the bullhead design. It features a 41mm 316L stainless steel case and is powered by a precise Miyota 6S11 quartz movement, ensuring accuracy and ease of use. The round sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating provides a clear view of the clean, white dial.
This model is designed as a versatile dress watch, complete with a leather strap that adds to its sophisticated appeal. With 5 ATM water resistance, it is reliable enough for rain and daily splashes. It’s an excellent choice for someone seeking a bullhead watch with a cleaner, more understated and elegant aesthetic.
Bullhead Bull-001 Analog Digital Watch with Tachymeter
The Bullhead Bull-001 combines analog and digital displays in a purpose-driven sports watch design. The inclusion of a tachymeter scale on the bezel allows for measuring speed based on time traveled, a useful feature for various timing activities. This hybrid functionality makes it a practical tool for motorsports enthusiasts and others who require precise timing.
Its design stays true to the bullhead ethos with the crown and pushers positioned at 12 o’clock for easy operation. The robust construction and clear digital readout ensure it can handle an active lifestyle while providing the information you need at a glance.
Bullhead Bull-004 Classic Bullhead Design Watch
The Bullhead Bull-004 focuses on delivering the iconic bullhead look in a straightforward and accessible package. Its design emphasizes the unique case shape that defines this style, making it an immediate standout. This model is for those who are drawn to the aesthetic heritage of the bullhead chronograph and want a watch that makes a bold stylistic statement.
With its classic layout and user-friendly design, it serves as a great introduction to the world of bullhead watches. It provides the distinctive look that makes these timepieces so recognizable, offering a unique addition to any watch collection without complexity.
What to Look For in a Bullhead Watch
If you’re on the hunt for one of these cool bullhead watches you can find online today, there are a few key things I always check before clicking “add to cart.” The bullhead design is inherently eye-catching, but the details make the difference between a good find and a great one.
First, let’s talk about the movement. This is the heart of the watch. For vintage-inspired pieces, you’ll often find reliable Japanese automatic movements from Seiko (like the NH35) or Miyota. These are workhorses that are relatively affordable to service. Some higher-end modern reissues might use Swiss movements, but that will significantly bump up the price. Quartz movements are also common, especially in more affordable or faithful re-creations of vintage quartz models from the 70s. Don’t automatically dismiss quartz; it offers accuracy and low maintenance, which is perfect for a watch you might not wear every single day.
Next, consider the case material and size. Bullhead watches are statement pieces by nature, so they tend to be on the larger side. A case diameter between 40mm and 44mm is pretty standard for modern interpretations. If you have a smaller wrist, you might want to look for vintage originals, which were often a more wearable 36-38mm. Stainless steel is the most common and durable material, but you’ll also find watches with PVD coatings (like black or rose gold) for a different look. Always check the lug-to-lug measurement as well; this determines how the watch will actually fit on your wrist more than the diameter alone.
The condition of the pushers and crown is super important. Since the chronograph pushers are on the top of the case, they can be vulnerable to bumps and scratches. On a used watch, give the photos a close look to ensure they aren’t dented or misaligned. For new watches, read reviews to see if the pusher action feels good and crisp.
Finally, think about the dial and crystal. These watches are all about that unique, driver-friendly layout. Look for good legibility and a style that speaks to you, whether it’s a funky 70s color scheme or a more subdued modern take. A sapphire crystal is a great bonus for scratch resistance, but many models use a domed mineral crystal that adds to the vintage aesthetic. Doing this homework makes finding one of those cool bullhead watches you can find online today a much more rewarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called “bullhead” watches?
The name comes from the unique case design. Instead of having the chronograph pushers on the side of the case like a typical stopwatch, they are positioned on the top, flanking the crown. When you look at the watch head-on, this configuration is said to resemble the horns and head of a bull, hence the nickname “bullhead.” It was a design popularized in the 1970s that was intended to make using the chronograph easier for drivers while their hands were on the steering wheel.
Are bullhead watches only for left-handed people?
This is a common misconception! While the crown and pushers on top might seem like they’d dig into the back of your left hand if worn on the left wrist, it’s not typically an issue. The design was more about ergonomics for specific activities, like driving, rather than handedness. Many right-handed people wear them comfortably on their left wrist. It really comes down to personal preference and how the specific case and lugs sit on your wrist. I suggest trying one on if you get the chance to see how it feels for you.
What are some reputable brands known for bullhead watches?
Several brands have famous historical and modern bullhead models. Seiko is a giant here, with iconic vintage pieces like the 6138-8020 and modern reissues like the “Flightmaster” SNA411. Citizen also produced fantastic models in the 70s, like the 8110 automatic chronograph. TAG Heuer has the prestigious Monaco Calibre 17, a luxury take on the design. For more accessible modern options, brands like Yema, Dan Henry, and Seagull offer well-regarded bullhead-style chronographs that are some of the cool bullhead watches you can find online today.
Is it better to buy a vintage or modern bullhead watch?
This depends entirely on your priorities. Vintage models offer authentic 1970s charm, often with smaller case sizes that suit smaller wrists, but they come with the challenges of older mechanics that may need servicing and finding one in good, unpolished condition can be difficult and expensive. Modern versions give you updated, reliable movements (often with longer power reserves), better water resistance, and sapphire crystals, all with a brand-new warranty. For a daily wearer, a modern piece is often the more practical choice.
How much should I expect to pay for a bullhead chronograph?
The price range is massive. You can find stylish quartz versions from microbrands or used on the secondary market for a few hundred dollars. For a solid, new automatic from a brand like Seiko or a microbrand, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500. If you’re looking at vintage pieces from major brands in good condition, or modern luxury versions from brands like TAG Heuer, prices can easily run into the several thousand dollar range. There’s an option for almost every budget.