Oh, to be alive during the golden age of the Computrons! For those who may not know, back in the freewheeling, progressive 1970s, LEDs were all the rage.
watches
were exploding into popularity. Following the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing, one of the most recognized models emerged.
Bulova Computron
, indicated that we had entered the era of space exploration.
Featuring a startling digital display and sleek,
monolith-like
Construction-wise, the Bulova Computron deviated from the conventional.
style
Of mechanical watches. However, as all things new eventually become outdated only to resurge later, this timepiece has found a special place amongst contemporary enthusiasts due to its “charmingly antiquated” design, says the leading watch website.
Hodinkee
.
“In the future, everything will be made of chrome,”
SpongeBob SquarePants
told us
But what if you’re looking to capture the distinctive appeal of this blend between retro and futuristic styles, particularly with timepieces? Where can you discover the finest retro-cool Computron watch alternatives at present?
Related: If We Persuade You to Don a Single Accessory, Make It This One
If locating such a watch is your objective, you’re among like-minded individuals. The internet-based watch community boasts an enthusiastic following for these timepieces. Just so we’re clear, they differ from contemporary LCD watches.
great all on their own
The LED, or light-emitting diode, is a semiconductor device that started emitting visible light in the 1960s. The Bulova Computron was preceded by another daring timepiece.
Hamilton Pulsar
In 1972, this groovy trend was sported by celebrities such as Jack Nicholson, Elton John, Sammy Davis Jr., and Keith Richards.
To check the time on these watches, you needed to press a button on their sides, revealing the digits in bright red numbers. However, this feature did not deter those savvy mods from desiring them. Similarly, it did not faze James Bond, who showcased his Hamilton Pulsar P2 2900 LED digital watch during the era of actor Roger Moore.
Live and Let Die
(1973). Just as the Pulsar was a sign of technological upheaval, the 007 endorsement was proof that slipping on one of these glowing wristbands was the absolute height of cool.
It’s no surprise that the market for comparable, if not identical, LED watches remains vibrant today. Here, we’ve compiled choices for modern enthusiasts of Computrons and Pulsars who wish to flaunt their vintage-style digital timepieces. The era of space-age fashion has returned, folks!
Top Competitor Watches to Consider Instead of Computrons
Bulova Computron Archive Series Timepiece
, $350
If you’re attempting to buy some
Computron
Why not opt for the genuine article instead? Although the original OG Computron, similar to its Pulsar counterparts, is available solely through secondary markets such as eBay, Bulova has also introduced some newly produced but unused timepieces.
Computron
Watch as part of their Archive Collection. We prefer the silver-tone stainless steel version, unless you’re aiming to make a statement with the gold one.
According to Bulova, the modern Computron features “a blue LED display, expanded digital functionality now with dual time zone capabilities, and a distinct retro design that is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.” Just as in the old days, the unusual trapezoid shape allows drivers to more easily see the time when they glance at their wrist. It’s also water resistant to 30 meters. Available for under $400, it’s a surprisingly affordable trip to the past.
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Hamilton American Classic PSR Digital Quartz Watch
, $795
You’ll need to pay considerably more for the
Hamilton American Classic PSR Digital Quartz Watch
, the brand’s contemporary take on the Pulsar, yet you’ll still gain all the Bond authenticity associated with it.
The PSR “marks the debut of that groundbreaking first digital watch,” according to the brand. However, there’s a catch: The modern iteration features an LED/LCD hybrid display.
It’s impossible to overlook the elegant design of that robust but stylish stainless-steel casing. Additionally, should you be preparing for an action-packed escapade reminiscent of James Bond, this timepiece boasts 100 meters of water resistance.
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Armitron Griffy Watch
, $60
LED watches used to be all the rage, commanding premium prices. However, times have changed. There’s nothing wrong with opting for the $60 model nowadays.
Armitron Griffy
, an updated version of the classic ’70s LED watch that was featured in Netflix’s
Stranger Things
.
The label provides an attractive option.
variety of color options
However, we believe the glowing red display—which appears as a black screen in sleep mode until activated—looks stunning contrasted with the sleeker stainless steel casing. So why not opt for the gold option?
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This Stylish New Timex Watch Might Be Its Most Attractive One Ever
