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I’ve written about the Bulova Lunar Pilot before. Back in 2020 my brother got me one, the first generation model in 45.5mm, as a gift. And that gift set me on the path to becoming interested more deeply in wristwatches. The first generation came in two models: a version with a date that had a modern Bulova logo and a satin finished case; and a version with no date, a vintage Bulova logo, a mirror polish case, and it came only with a nylon strap.
Then in 2023 they released the second generation, identical to the first no-date version, but with a smaller case shape. Now 43.5mm across and with a smaller lug-to-lug height of about 50mm (down from 53mm), it also includes a stainless steel bracelet. In practice it wears much better on the wrist. The reduction in dimensions is reminiscent of the tweaks Omega itself made with the Speedmaster in 2021 with the 3861 model. The lug height was reduced by 2mm and lugs themselves were reshaped to make them curve downward, giving it a noticeably more compact visual shape.
The Swatch Group’s moonSwatch is a great product that holds a great appeal for its Omega co-branding, multiple variations with many different complications and fun colorways. I’ve thought of getting ones for my kids so we can all be wearing moon watches. But the drawbacks are many, primarily its complete lack of ability to be serviced. If anything happens to it to make it stop ticking, a moonSwatch is dead forever. Besides battery replacements, you have no recourse.
But with the Bulova Lunar Pilot, it’s a fully serviceable watch made of stainless steel, with a sapphire crystal and a higher-accuracy quartz movement. My 7-year-old has already started wearing the 43.5mm one on a rubber strap and is so excited about it.
So if you love the history of flight-qualified watches from the Apollo era and want to buy into that at a more accessible price point, the Bulova Lunar Pilot is the watch to consider.
