Bulova Curv Review: 10th Anniversary Edition

Ten years have passed since Bulova first introduced the world to a curved watch movement that follows the contours of the wrist.

To mark the anniversary, the company decided to address one of the main issues of the original model - reducing the case size. Despite its revolutionary design and engineering solution, the original Curv with a 44 mm diameter was too large for those with slender wrists. Although such a size was in line with fashion trends of that time, today's trend towards smaller watches is evident, and Bulova is responding to this demand by offering a version with a smaller case, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

Let's take a closer look at what exactly has changed in the anniversary version and how it reflects the evolution of the Curv model.

Case: Reduced Size and Preserved Unique Shape

Of course, the review begins with the case - the main distinctive element of these watches. The case not only follows the curve of the wrist, but the mechanism inside also has a curved shape, which immediately catches the eye upon first acquaintance with the watch. In the new anniversary version, the case diameter has been reduced to 41 mm, which is 3 mm smaller than the original. This makes the watch more comfortable for everyday wear and broadens its audience.

The smaller case size also positively affects the visual proportions - the watch looks more harmonious and balanced.

At the same time, the futuristic design solutions that distinguished the original in 2016 are preserved: elongated skeletonized lugs that visually emphasize the curve of the case. The case shape has become more angular due to straight side edges, which harmonize with the rectangular chronograph buttons. Each design decision is aimed at emphasizing the curved shape, while the presence of straight lines creates a contrast, allowing for a better appreciation of the degree of curvature.

The bezel of the case is thin to maximize the exposure of the dial, and a large curved sapphire crystal is installed on the back cover, showcasing the innovative quartz movement inside. Most of the case is satin-finished in a straight line, except for the bezel, which is polished to a mirror finish.

It's important to note that reducing the size has not turned the Bulova Curv into elegant classic watches - the size is still significant, ensuring a noticeable presence on the wrist. The goal of the reduction is to make the model more accessible to more users without compromising the core concept.

Dial: Semi-Transparent Design with Emphasis on Legibility

The dial is one of the key components that make the watch lively and modern. Bulova has continued the theme of modernization by introducing a brown semi-transparent dial. Instead of a fully open dial, which might look out of place on a quartz movement (unlike the famous tuning-fork mechanism of Bulova), only part of the movement is shown here, giving the watch character without distracting from functionality.

The brown shade of the dial provides good contrast with the markers, hands, and scales. Partially skeletonized hands and applied markers are treated with a luminescent compound, improving legibility in low light conditions.

Despite the case reduction, the classic arrangement of the three chronograph sub-dials in a 3-6-9 layout remains unchanged - this is standard for chronographs. Thanks to the transparency of the dial, the decorative finish of the movement is visible - a striped pattern on its upper part, located at the edge of the dial, adds visual depth and uniqueness, which is often lacking in open dials.

Movement: Curved High-Frequency Chronograph

Inside the watch is Bulova's proprietary curved chronograph movement, operating at an incredibly high frequency of 262 kHz. This provides smoother movement of the second hand compared to regular quartz watches.

As the name suggests, the movement is curved, allowing it to perfectly follow the shape of the wrist - an innovation first implemented ten years ago and still a unique feature of Bulova. The movement is the central element of the model, around which the entire design is built.

Curved movements are difficult to produce because energy in watches is traditionally transmitted in a straight line - this is the path of least resistance. Adding chronograph functions complicates the construction but demonstrates the high level of engineering skill of the Bulova team.

Strap: Comfort and Versatility

The anniversary version of Curv is equipped with a quick-change strap system, allowing easy switching between a stainless steel bracelet with solid links and a flexible rubber strap. Both options are comfortable and highlight different design details of the watch.

The metal bracelet with straight lugs highlights the long curved lugs of the case, while the textured rubber strap harmoniously matches the dial. The user simply needs to choose the suitable option according to mood or style.

Conclusion: Balance of Innovation and Practicality in the Anniversary Version

Maintaining the relevance of an innovative model is a challenging task. Over the years, various variations of Curv have appeared, but the reduction in case size in the anniversary version shows that the brand listens to audience requests, while not abandoning the key features that made the model popular.

The updated version successfully combines novelty and fidelity to the original, making it interesting for both fans of the model and new buyers.

Personally, these watches hold special significance for me: I began my career in the watch business around the same time Bulova Curv first hit the market, and I even sold them in a retail store. Seeing the evolution of the model and my own professional growth is an important experience. Although my wrist size increases over time, it's nice to see Bulova adapting Curv to modern trends and demands.

In my experience, the original model evoked a sense of admiration in customers, and I am confident that the new version will provide the same emotions to even more people.

Technical Specifications and Price of Bulova Curv 10th Anniversary