Bulova 16AB: A Sturdy Manual Movement for the Post-War Era

The Bulova 16AB is a vintage manual-wind mechanical movement that was widely used in the post-WWII era, particularly during the late 1940s and 1950s. Representing a transitional phase in Bulova’s movement development, the 16AB was designed for durability, ease of service, and compatibility with a wide range of case sizes—especially larger watches that were gaining popularity after the war.

Technical Overview

The “16” in the name refers to the movement's approximate ligne size. At 16 ligne, or approximately 36.1 mm, the 16AB is larger than many of Bulova’s more compact 10–12 ligne movements. This size made it suitable for military-inspired watches, field watches, and rugged dress models that required a strong visual presence and functional reliability.

Specifications:

• Type: Manual-wind mechanical movement

• Diameter: ~16 ligne (~36.1 mm)

• Jewels: Typically 15 or 17, depending on the model

• Functions: Hours, minutes, and sub-seconds (usually at 6 o’clock)

• Beat Rate: 18,000 bph (vibrations per hour)

• Power Reserve: Around 40–42 hours

• Shock Protection: Some models had basic protection; others featured Incabloc upgrades in later production runs

• Date: No date complication in standard 16AB

Historical Context and Applications

The 16AB was developed during a time when watch sizes were increasing, and consumers were seeking more legible and functional dials. The larger size of the 16AB allowed Bulova to design:

• Military-style watches with large numerals and high-contrast dials

• Waterproof or shockproof models for active lifestyles

• Casual dress watches with clean lines and practical dimensions

These watches were often marketed to working professionals, servicemen, and young men seeking a reliable timekeeper in everyday life.

Typical case materials included stainless steel and chrome-plated brass, with dial designs that featured:

• Luminous hands and numerals

• Railroad-style minute tracks

• Small seconds registers at 6 o'clock

• Domed acrylic crystals

Servicing and Durability

The Bulova 16AB is appreciated among vintage watchmakers for its straightforward, robust construction. With a low parts count and ample interior space due to its larger size, it is easy to disassemble and reassemble.

Servicing Considerations:

• Regular lubrication ensures a smooth gear train and long-term accuracy

• The sub-second mechanism needs alignment and cleaning during full servicing

• Crown and stem wear is common due to daily manual winding

• Mainsprings may need replacing in long-stored examples

Despite its age, many examples of the 16AB still function well today, particularly those that have received routine care.

Collectibility and Value

While the 16AB is not rare or high-end, it holds considerable historical and practical value. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a favorite for new collectors and vintage restorers alike. It is also commonly found in Bulova models sold in North America and Europe during the early postwar decades.

Why vintage enthusiasts appreciate the 16AB:

• Larger size than most vintage calibers—wears well on modern wrists

• Clean, legible designs typical of the mid-20th century

• Durable and easy to service

• Affordable entry point into mechanical vintage watches

Final Thoughts

The Bulova 16AB movement is a solid example of practical watchmaking from an era focused on utility, durability, and evolving style. Whether housed in a rugged field watch or a modest dress piece, the 16AB continues to earn its place on the wrists of collectors who appreciate classic, no-nonsense mechanical movements.

Its generous size, straightforward mechanics, and reliable performance make it a worthy part of Bulova’s legacy—and an enduring choice for vintage watch fans seeking function with heritage.