PULSAR P3 TIME COMPUTER LED 1973
The "P3" is the first LED watch with date launched in the 3rd quarter of 1973 and was probably the longest produced model from Pulsar still available in late 1975. It is the most sexy of Pulsars in terms of futuristic design and that is why it became my first ever LED watch that started a long addiction. This lobster-style is my all-time favorite and looks modern and appealing today the same way it must been attractive to consumers in the 1970's. Early versions came with light-weight hollow bracelets by Champion USA in either steel or goldfill that were later followed by solid-steel link bracelets by Bear Japan. The hollow type is nicer in feel and quality but tends to suffer a lot more from dents and stretch so the solid bracelet is a highly preferred option for daily use. Read about bracelet repair and restoration in the Repair section (soon).
As described in the P2 review the P3 (3013) module is the same as the late P2 generation (2900) but has been upgraded with a date logic and extra reed-switch on the left. Due to this similarity it is not uncommon to find P3 modules in P2 watches showing time only. All parts can be transplanted between both modules with the display and transistors being the most helpful. Removing them might be an issue so the best solution to remove the display-drivers (transistors) is to hold them with thick tweezers and twist in order to break the solder at the substrate. The display might be popped by using some leverage but in order to reduce potential breakage it is suggested to cover other components and heat up the display with a hairdryer.
With the development of the Pulsar and optimizing production costs also the setting magnet was upgraded from the steel magnetized horse-shoe magnet (very common in the P2) to a black ferrite magnet. Both types work the same whereas the ferrite type has a smaller percentage of strength loss than the steel type. The P3 was also available as the "P2 Date" with added left button. Two versions can be found with the Pulsar logo engraved on the case or with logo printed on the crystal. Also various box types can be found but the best matching style is the blue type for the early 1973/74 versions and a brown-gold semi-leather type also used for the P4 model from 1975. Hamilton QEDs and Omega Time Computers were also fitted with Pulsar magnet-set modules and can be easily replaced (Omega TC1 1600 = P2, TC2 1601 = P3).
Pulsar sales leaflet here
Keywords: pulsar led, pulsar p3, pulsar digital, time computer
Market value: 100-650$ (condition, box)