How To Put On A Bulova Watch

Learning how to put on a Bulova watch properly involves securing its clasp or buckle for a snug fit. It’s a simple task, but doing it correctly ensures comfort, security, and protects your timepiece from accidental damage. This guide covers every method for all Bulova bracelet and strap types.

We will walk you through each process with clear, step-by-step instructions. You’ll also find tips for adjusting the fit and general care advice to keep your watch in perfect condition.

Most Bulova watches feature either a metal bracelet with a folding clasp or a leather strap with a buckle. The method for putting on your watch depends entirely on which style you have. The following sections provide detailed guides for each type.

Before you begin, find a soft, clean surface to work on, like a table with a towel or a padded watch pillow. This prevents scratches if the watch slips from your hands.

Identifying Your Bulova Watch Closure Type

First, determine what kind of closure your Bulova has. Look at the underside of the strap or bracelet where the two halves connect.

Deployant or Folding Clasp: Common on metal bracelets. It has a hinged, often double-folding mechanism that secures with a push-button or lever.
Tang Buckle: The traditional style on leather or fabric straps. It involves a metal pin that goes through a hole in the strap.
Butterfly Clasp: A seamless, often concealed clasp that opens into two symmetrical wings. It’s common on dressier Bulova models.
Hook and Loop (Velcro): Found on some sport or casual models, featuring a fabric strap that secures by pressing two sides together.

Putting On A Bulova With A Deployant Clasp

The deployant clasp is secure and designed for daily use. It might seem complex at first, but it’s very intuitive once you understand it.

Place the watch face-down on your soft surface. Locate the two push buttons on the sides of the clasp. These are the release mechanisms.
Press both buttons simultaneously. This will unlatch the primary folding piece, allowing the clasp to open fully. You may need to apply firm, even pressure.
Open the clasp completely so it lies flat. You will see it consists of two main folding sections connected to each half of the bracelet.
Wrap the bracelet around your wrist. Ensure the side with the longer fold (usually with the Bulova logo) is on the outside of your wrist.
Bring the two ends of the bracelet together. Insert the small metal tongue or hook on one end into the main clasp piece on the other.
Once the tongue is engaged, fold the primary clasp piece closed. You should hear a firm, satisfying click indicating it is secure.
Finally, fold the secondary safety flap over the top of the clasp until it also clicks shut. This adds an extra layer of security.

Tips For Deployant Clasp Success

If the clasp feels stiff, it may be new. The mechanism will loosen slightly with regular use. Always press the buttons with the pads of your fingers, not your nails, to avoid damage. If it doesn’t close smoothly, check that the folding pieces are aligned correctly and no fabric from your sleeve is caught inside.

Putting On A Bulova With A Tang Buckle

This is the classic watch strap closure. It’s straightforward but requires a bit of dexterity to get the pin through the correct hole.

Place your watch face-up. The buckle will be attached to the shorter strap (the “keeper” side).
Wrap the longer strap end around your wrist. Feed it through the metal loops (keepers) on the strap to keep it tidy.
Insert the metal pin of the buckle through your desired hole on the long strap. Choose a hole that gives a snug but comfortable fit—you should be able to fit one finger between the strap and your wrist.
Pull the strap end through to tighten. Ensure the buckle is centered on the underside of your wrist.
Tuck the excess strap tail through the second keeper loop. This keeps it neat and prevents it from flapping. Some straps have a third loop specifically for this tail.

For a secure fit, make sure the pin goes all the way through the hole and sits flat. The leather should not be pinched or twisted around the buckle.

Putting On A Bulova With A Butterfly Clasp

Butterfly clasps offer a sleek look with no overlapping buckle on the wrist. They open from the center.

Find the small indentation or groove at the center of the clasp on the underside. This is your opening point.
Use your fingernail or a blunt tool to gently pry the clasp open from the center. It will split into two symmetrical wings.
Open the wings fully and place the watch around your wrist. The two halves of the bracelet will now be separate.
Align the two halves carefully. Bring them together until you hear or feel a soft click on each side.
Press firmly on both sides of the clasp to ensure it is fully closed. The closure should appear seamless with no visible gap.

Butterfly clasps can be delicate. Avoid forcing it open from one side only, as this can bend the mechanism. Always open from the designated center point.

Adjusting Your Bulova Watch For A Perfect Fit

A proper fit is crucial. A watch that’s too tight can be uncomfortable and leave marks on your skin. One that’s too loose will slide around and is more likely to get caught on objects.

The One-Finger Rule: You should be able to slide one finger comfortably between the bracelet/strap and your wrist. This is a standard guideline for a good fit.
Wrist Movement: The watch should stay in place when your arm hangs down. It may slide slightly when you move your arm, but it should not rotate freely around your wrist.
Seasonal Changes: Your wrist size can change slightly with temperature and humidity. You may need to use a different hole on a leather strap in summer versus winter.

Resizing A Bulova Metal Bracelet

If your metal bracelet is too large, it will need to be resized by removing links. This often requires special tools.

Identify the removable links. These have small arrows on the underside indicating the direction to push out the pins.
Use a link removal tool or a small precision hammer and pin punch. Place the bracelet securely in a vise or holder.
Carefully push the pin out in the direction of the arrows. Remove the necessary number of links from both sides of the clasp to maintain balance.
Reconnect the bracelet by inserting the pins back through the links. Ensure they are flush and secure. A drop of Loctite can help secure the pins.

If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, any jeweler or watch repair shop can perform this service quickly and for a modest fee. It’s often the safest option to avoid damaging your bracelet.

Caring For Your Bulova Watch During Daily Wear

Proper handling when putting on and taking off your watch extends its lifespan. Here are key care tips.

Avoid Dropping: Always handle your watch over a soft surface. A fall onto a hard floor can damage the movement, crystal, or case.
Mind the Crown: Ensure the winding crown (the knob on the side) is pushed in or screwed down tightly before wearing. This maintains water resistance.
Clean Regularly: Gently wipe metal bracelets with a soft, damp cloth to remove sweat and oils. For leather straps, use a dry cloth to prevent moisture damage.
Rotate Straps: If you have a leather-strapped Bulova, consider rotating between two straps. This allows each one to air out and prevents premature wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Put On My Bulova Watch If The Clasp Is Stiff?

New clasps can be stiff. Apply firm, even pressure to the release buttons. You can also try opening and closing it several times while not wearing it to loosen the mechanism. Avoid using excessive force.

What Is The Correct Way To Wear A Bulova Watch?

The correct way is to wear it on the wrist opposite your dominant hand (typically left wrist for right-handed people). The watch should sit just behind the wrist bone for comfort and ease of viewing. The fit should be snug but not tight.

How Do I Change The Strap On My Bulova Watch?

To change the strap, you need a spring bar tool. Use the forked end to compress the spring bar where it connects to the watch lugs. Once compressed, the bar can be removed, freeing the strap. Reverse the process to attach a new one. Always work over a soft surface to prevent scratches.

Why Won’t My Bulova Watch Clasp Close?

Check for obstructions like fabric or dirt in the clasp mechanism. Ensure the folding pieces are aligned correctly. If the clasp is bent or damaged, it may need professional repair. Do not force it closed.

How Tight Should A Bulova Watch Be?

It should be tight enough not to slide over the wrist bone but loose enough to allow the one-finger rule. You should not see a deep imprint of the watch on your skin after removing it. Comfort is the best indicator of a proper fit.