The Bulova 11ALA Movement Series: Compact and Reliable for the Modern Age

The Bulova 11ALA and its associated variants (such as 11ALAC, 11ALAD, and 11ALACD) represent a continued evolution of the brand’s slim manual-wind calibers during the late 1960s into the 1970s. These movements were designed with versatility in mind—serving as compact, efficient engines for a wide variety of elegant wristwatches. Building on the popular 11AL platform, the 11ALA series introduced small refinements to meet changing tastes and functional expectations.

Base Design of the 11ALA

The 11ALA movement is part of Bulova’s broader 11-ligne family, with the “A” suffix typically indicating a mechanical or cosmetic improvement over the earlier 11AL. This movement was designed to be compact, affordable, and easily adaptable for additional features like a central seconds hand or date display.

Key Specs of the 11ALA:

• Size: Approx. 11.5 ligne (~25.6 mm diameter)

• Height: Slim profile for dress watches

• Jewels: Typically 17 jewels, though lower-count versions exist

• Manual-winding: No automatic rotor; daily winding required

• Beat Rate: Generally 18,000 bph

• Power Reserve: Around 40–42 hours

• Shock Protection: Most models used Incabloc or similar systems

• Functions: Hours, minutes, and center seconds

The 11ALA was especially popular in minimalist, mid-century dress watches where thinness, reliability, and simplicity were the top priorities.

Common Variants of the 11ALA

Bulova expanded the 11ALA base movement into several functional and feature-rich versions, each catering to different consumer preferences:

11ALAC

• Adds center seconds, instead of a sub-seconds dial.

• Used in more modern-looking watches with sweeping seconds hands.

• A go-to choice for standard men’s dress watches.

11ALAD

• Adds a date complication, usually at the 3 o'clock position.

• Features a simple quick-set mechanism (in some late models).

• Introduced to meet growing consumer demand for practical daily features.

11ALACD

• Combines both center seconds and date.

• The most complete and consumer-friendly version of the series.

• Often found in higher-end Bulova models or export pieces marked "Bulova U.S.A." or "Bulova Swiss."

Application and Aesthetic

The 11ALA series was frequently used in:

• Slim dress watches

• Office-ready timepieces

• Gold-plated or steel-cased watches

• Minimalist and classical dials

Typical characteristics of 11ALA-powered watches include:

• Clean dials with applied indices or numerals

• Subtle Bulova branding

• Slender hands, often dauphine or baton-shaped

• Manual-wind crowns with a small, low-profile design

These watches were marketed toward professionals and fashion-conscious users who valued discretion and refinement.

Durability and Maintenance

While not designed for rugged use, the 11ALA holds up well over time when serviced properly. Its simplicity allows for relatively easy disassembly and regulation, making it a favorite among vintage watch technicians.

Servicing Notes:

• Mainspring and balance should be inspected due to age.

• The manual-wind mechanism is robust but prone to overwinding if mishandled.

• Lubrication and part alignment are key to long-term accuracy.

Replacement parts are moderately available through vintage supply channels, and donor movements are plentiful due to the high production numbers of Bulova watches from this era.

Collectibility and Legacy

The 11ALA series is not rare, but its reliability and vintage appeal make it a favorite among enthusiasts and restorers. It’s an ideal entry point into mechanical watch collecting.

Reasons collectors appreciate the 11ALA:

• Slim and elegant movement

• Manual-wind charm and tactile engagement

• Common yet historically significant

• Compatible with a wide range of Bulova case designs

Whether you're refurbishing a classic 1960s Bulova or seeking a timeless dress piece, the 11ALA movement family delivers dependable performance and vintage appeal in a compact format.