Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch (Model 96B251) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph, Model 96B251, is a special edition timepiece from the Bulova Archive Series. It commemorates the Bulova chronograph worn on the moon during the Apollo 15 mission on August 2, 1971. This watch is equipped with a high-performance quartz movement, operating at a frequency of 262 kHz, which provides exceptional accuracy. It features a stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and comes with interchangeable straps.

Figure 1: Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch (Model 96B251) with accessories.

2. Watch Components

Familiarize yourself with the key components of your Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph:

• Crown: Used for setting the time and date.
• Pushers (Top and Bottom): Operate the chronograph functions.
• Main Dial: Displays the current time.
• Sub-dials:
• Small seconds hand (at 6 o'clock)
• Chronograph 1/1000-second, 1/10-second, seconds, minutes, and hours (distributed across other sub-dials).
• Tachymeter Scale: Located on the outer rim of the dial, used for measuring speed.
• Date Window: Displays the current date.

Figure 2: Side view illustrating the crown and pushers.

3. Setup

3.1 Setting the Time

1. Pull the crown out to the second click. The small seconds hand will stop.
2. Rotate the crown to set the hour and minute hands to the desired time.
3. Push the crown back into its normal position. The small seconds hand will resume movement.

3.2 Setting the Date

1. Pull the crown out to the first click.
2. Rotate the crown to set the date.
3. Push the crown back into its normal position.

3.3 Strap Adjustment and Replacement

Your watch comes with two interchangeable straps: a black leather strap and a black nylon strap. A strap changing tool is included in the presentation box to facilitate replacement.

1. Use the provided tool to carefully depress the spring bars holding the current strap in place.
2. Remove the strap.
3. Align the new strap with the lug holes and insert the spring bars, ensuring they click securely into place.

Figure 3: Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph with the black nylon strap.

4. Operating the Chronograph

The chronograph function allows for precise measurement of elapsed time.

4.1 Starting and Stopping the Chronograph

1. Press the top pusher to start the chronograph. The central chronograph second hand will begin to move, along with the sub-dials measuring fractions of a second, minutes, and hours.
2. Press the top pusher again to stop the chronograph. The elapsed time will be displayed on the sub-dials.

4.2 Resetting the Chronograph

1. After stopping the chronograph, press the bottom pusher to reset all chronograph hands to their zero positions.

4.3 Using the Tachymeter

The tachymeter scale can be used to measure speed over a known distance (e.g., 1 kilometer or 1 mile).

1. Start the chronograph at the beginning of the measured distance.
2. Stop the chronograph when the distance is completed.
3. The number on the tachymeter scale corresponding to the position of the central chronograph second hand indicates the average speed in units per hour.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Water Resistance

Your Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph is water resistant to 50 meters (5 ATM). This means it is suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not for diving or prolonged water exposure. Always ensure the crown is pushed in completely to maintain water resistance.

5.2 Cleaning

To clean your watch, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can be used, followed by drying thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

5.3 Battery Replacement

The watch is powered by one LR44 battery (included). When the battery needs replacement, it is recommended to take your watch to an authorized Bulova service center or a qualified watchmaker to ensure proper sealing and function.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your watch, please refer to the following common solutions:

• Watch not running: Ensure the crown is fully pushed in. If the watch still does not run, the battery may need replacement.
• Incorrect time/date: Follow the instructions in Section 3.1 and 3.2 to reset the time and date.
• Chronograph hands not resetting to zero: If the chronograph hands do not return to their zero positions after resetting, consult an authorized service center.

For issues not covered here, please contact Bulova customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Limited Warranty

Your Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph is covered by a 3-year limited warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects under normal use. Please refer to the warranty card included with your watch for full terms and conditions.

8.2 Customer Support

For any questions, service, or repair needs, please visit the official Bulova website or contact an authorized Bulova service center. Contact information can typically be found on the Bulova website or in the documentation provided with your watch.