Bulova Automatic Watch 97B215 User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the Bulova Automatic Watch 97B215 user manual. This guide provides essential information for the proper use, care, and maintenance of your new timepiece. The Bulova Oceanographer GMT is a sophisticated automatic watch featuring a rose gold-tone stainless steel case, a two-tone 24-hour bidirectional rotating bezel, and GMT functionality, designed for both style and precision.

Front view of the Bulova Automatic Watch 97B215, showcasing its rose gold-tone case, black dial, and two-tone bezel.

2. Setup and Initial Operation

2.1 Winding the Watch

Your Bulova 97B215 is an automatic watch, meaning it is powered by the motion of your wrist. Before initial use or if the watch has stopped, it is recommended to manually wind it:

1. Unscrew the crown (located at 3 o'clock) counter-clockwise until it pops out to position 1.
2. Turn the crown clockwise approximately 30-40 times. This will build up a power reserve.
3. Push the crown back in and screw it down clockwise to ensure water resistance.

2.2 Setting the Time and Date

To set the time and date:

1. Unscrew the crown and pull it out to position 2 (first click).
2. Turn the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise to set the date. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this can damage the movement.
3. Pull the crown out to position 3 (second click). The seconds hand will stop.
4. Turn the crown to set the hour and minute hands. To ensure correct AM/PM, advance the hands past 12 o'clock; if the date changes, it is midnight.
5. Once the time is set, push the crown back to position 0 and screw it down firmly to maintain water resistance.

2.3 Setting the GMT (24-Hour) Hand

The independently adjusted hour hand allows for easy setting of a second time zone:

1. Unscrew the crown and pull it out to position 2 (first click).
2. Turn the crown counter-clockwise to adjust the GMT (24-hour) hand. This hand moves independently of the main hour and minute hands.
3. Once the GMT hand is set, push the crown back to position 0 and screw it down firmly.

2.4 Adjusting the Bracelet

The three-link bracelet can be adjusted by adding or removing links. It is recommended to have this done by a professional jeweler to avoid damage.

Side profile of the watch, showing the crown and the bracelet's thickness.

3. Operating Your Automatic Watch

3.1 Automatic Movement

The Bulova 97B215 is powered by a self-winding GMT movement with 24 jewels and a power reserve of 42 hours. This means the watch gains power from the natural motion of your arm. If worn daily, it should not require manual winding.

3.2 Water Resistance

This watch features 200 meters (20 ATM) of water resistance, making it suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not scuba diving. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before exposing the watch to water.

• Do not operate the crown or pushers when the watch is wet or submerged.
• Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperature changes (e.g., hot shower immediately followed by cold water).
• Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to salt water.

Rear view of the watch, showing the screw-down caseback and water resistance markings.

4. Maintenance and Care

Proper care will ensure the longevity and performance of your Bulova watch:

• Cleaning: Wipe the watch case and bracelet regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by drying.
• Avoid Chemicals: Keep the watch away from solvents, detergents, perfumes, and cosmetic products, as these can damage the case, bracelet, or seals.
• Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures (above 60°C / 140°F or below 0°C / 32°F) or sudden temperature changes.
• Magnetic Fields: Keep the watch away from strong magnetic fields (e.g., speakers, refrigerators, mobile phones, airport security scanners), as these can affect the accuracy of the mechanical movement.
• Servicing: It is recommended to have your automatic watch serviced by an authorized Bulova service center every 3-5 years to ensure optimal performance and water resistance.

The watch displayed in a sandy setting, highlighting its robust design.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your watch, consider the following:

• Watch Not Running: Ensure the watch is fully wound. If it has been stationary for a long period, manually wind it as described in Section 2.1.
• Inaccurate Time: Check if the watch has been exposed to strong magnetic fields. If so, a professional demagnetization may be required. Ensure the crown is fully screwed down.
• Date Not Changing: Verify the time is set correctly for AM/PM. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM.
• Water Inside Crystal: If condensation or water appears inside the crystal, immediately take the watch to an authorized service center. This indicates a breach in water resistance.

For issues not resolved by these steps, please contact Bulova customer support or an authorized service center.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Your Bulova Automatic Watch 97B215 comes with a 2-year limited warranty from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For warranty service, repairs, or technical support, please contact an authorized Bulova service center or visit the official Bulova website for more information. Do not attempt to open or repair the watch yourself, as this will void the warranty.

The watch is delivered in an original gift box.