Bulova x Complecto
Jet Star Limited Edition
The Story
So how did Bulova, an iconic watchmaking brand with nearly 150 years of history, team up with Complecto, a fledgling platform dedicated to elevating and amplifying underrepresented voices in the watch industry? At first glance, the similarities might not seem obvious, but a closer look reveals the shared values that inspired the Complecto Jet Star LE.
For starters, both brands have deep roots in New York City. Bulova was founded in 1875 by Bohemian immigrant Joseph Bulova, establishing its operations in the borough of Queens.
Complecto was founded in 2022 by Jason Gong, a Brooklyn-born entrepreneur, who would host Complecto's first event in Manhattan.
Most importantly, both brands' core values draw from New York City's rich history and cultural diversity to fuel innovation, build community, and foster inclusion.
A History of Firsts
The significance of Bulova's achievements and innovation cannot be overstated. In 1912 they were the first watch company to introduce standardized production techniques, allowing for the mass production of watch components and significantly improving the quality and affordability of watches.
They were also pioneers in advertising and marketing, airing the world's first radio advertisement in 1920 and running the first full-page newspaper advertisement in 1923.
Throughout the 20th century, Bulova would also be responsible for some of the most significant innovations in precision timekeeping:
1931: Bulova produced the world's first clock radio, combining precision timekeeping with radio technology.
1952: Bulova introduced the Accutron, the world's first electronic watch, which used a tuning fork instead of a balance wheel and marked a significant breakthrough in timekeeping accuracy.
1960: The Accutron Astronaut became the first watch certified for use by NASA astronauts and was worn on space missions, including the Apollo program.
1970: Bulova introduced the Accuquartz, one of the world's first quartz watches
2007: Bulova launched Precisionist technology, which combined the accuracy of quartz with the smooth-sweeping second hand of a mechanical watch, achieving unparalleled precision.
A Commitment to Inclusion
Inspired by the belief that access begets opportunity, and powered by a community of thousands of members who believe that representation matters, Complecto is the first platform dedicated to elevating and amplifying underrepresented voices in the watch industry.
Since launching in 2022, Complecto has hosted dozens of events attended by thousands of people, introducing a new generation of collectors and enthusiasts to the world and culture of horology.
A testament to the power of collaboration and shared values, the Complecto Jet Star LE blends Bulova's exceptional craftsmanship and expertise in accessible luxury with Complecto's inclusive ethos, resulting in a watch that embodies the values that drive both brands forward.
The Design
Inspired by the original Bulova Jet Star from 1973, the turtle-shaped stainless steel case has been updated to a contemporary 40mm angular shape featuring contrasting brushed and polished surfaces that frame a captivating and dramatic grey dial with dégradé effect. Also featured are a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, luminous hands and cabochons at the hours, and a date window at 3 o'clock.
The Movement
Powered by the Bulova Manufacture Precisionist High Precision Quartz movement, a descendent of the revolutionary Accutron movement, it boasts a remarkable 262kHz frequency for accuracy within +/- 5 seconds per month accompanied by a smooth sweeping second hand that beats 16 times per second.
The Accessories
The Complecto Jet Star LE comes with a quick-release stainless steel bracelet and two additional custom straps; a Bulova black leather strap with orange contrast stitching and a bespoke Delugs charcoal Alcantara strap with light grey contrast stitch and orange rubber lining, both embossed with the Complecto logo.
By The Numbers:
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Diameter: 40mm
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Thickness: 11.6mm
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Lug width: 20mm
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Lug-to-lug: 45mm
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Water Resistance: 50m/150ft
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Movement: Bulova Manufacture Precisionist High Precision Quartz, 8 jewels, 262kHz
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Price: $750.00
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Limited Edition of 100 individually numbered pieces
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Estimated shipping date: October 24, 2023
