I bought this a week ago and put it on my wrist and it sits like a rock tied to a thread . The watch is to heavy to be supported by the 16mm strap. It’s definitely a design flaw, also something feels cheap about the bezel, the push down function is something to get used to. I would have gone with an acrylic bezel. The watch is way to thick top heavy and clunky . The caseback is also a bit much and an unnecessary deviation from the original, I get that they wanted to stick to the original specs but they have definitely failed with the choices the made to modernize and ignore certain aspects. This watch could have been so amazing. We won’t even get into the scuba helmet vessel it comes in.
Bulova Response
I think the key work here is "Prototype" the watch was never put into production, or critiqued by the US Navy. Bulova backed out of the deal, and the watch was just lost to time until someone came with one of the originals, and asked Bulova if they would make it again as is. That's what makes this piece unique. I read about it before I bought it and yes, 16 MM lugs were odd to me, but that's how the prototype was made, You either love it, or hate it.
I bought this watch for the history, but was really surprised how much I enjoy wearing it. The strap feel and dimensions make for an incredibly comfortable wear. The domed crystal commands compliments and conversations.