Bulova Part Number Index: Insights from Pages 11–20

The Bulova Part Number Index, specifically pages 11 through 20, offers a deeper view into the extensive cataloging system used by Bulova to manage its parts inventory across decades of watchmaking. These pages serve as a continuation of the structured listing found in the earlier sections, offering precision and detail crucial for watchmakers, technicians, and collectors restoring or identifying vintage Bulova timepieces.

This section primarily focuses on caliber-specific components, expanding upon earlier listings by including additional mechanical families, more part sub-variations, and less common components such as date correctors, spring levers, and motion works parts.

Organized by Movement, Defined by Precision

Bulova’s system divides parts by movement families—typically referenced by well-known caliber designations such as 11ALACD, 10BPAC, 12EBAC, or 2182. Each movement is associated with a series of part numbers, allowing users to:

• Match a worn or broken part to the correct replacement

• Identify compatibility between similar movement variants

• Order exactly the right configuration (jewel count, color, setting method)

In pages 11–20, we see the continuation of this movement-to-part correlation, often displayed as columns featuring:

• Bulova part number

• Component description

• Applicable movement number(s)

• In some cases, a suffix or variant notation (e.g., -1, -2) indicating subtle changes in design or material

Types of Parts Listed

These pages showcase a broader variety of watch components beyond the core train or escapement elements. Common items listed include:

• Calendar and day wheel components (such as jumpers, springs, correctors)

• Keyless works parts (setting wheels, clutch levers, yokes)

• Setting system components (cannon pinions, hour wheels, minute wheels)

• Automatic winding parts (rotor axle assemblies, reverser wheels, bridges)

• Motion works components (intermediate wheels, center pinions)

• Shock spring variations, often matched to jeweled movements or specific base plates

Each part is identified by a unique numerical code, typically in the format of ####-#, such as 1234-1 or 1567-2. These codes enable precise ordering from vintage stock or reproduction suppliers.

Use for Watchmakers and Technicians

Watchmakers working on Bulova timepieces from the 1940s through the 1980s rely on this documentation to restore watches to factory specifications. The 11–20 page segment is especially useful for identifying interchangeable components between movement variants.

For example, a stem designed for a 10CL might also fit a 10CLD, but only if it matches the correct version as indicated by the suffix (e.g., 1301-2 vs. 1301-3). Without this clarity, replacement efforts could lead to improper fit, jamming, or long-term wear issues.

These lists also help technicians:

• Avoid trial-and-error part fitting

• Reduce unnecessary disassembly

• Plan ahead for restoration inventory needs

Valuable for Collectors and Sellers

Even for those not repairing watches themselves, the Bulova part number system from pages 11–20 provides critical verification data. For collectors, it confirms authenticity. For sellers, it ensures correct part descriptions when offering NOS (new old stock) components online or in vintage marketplaces.

Having a part labeled simply as “Bulova stem” is insufficient. With this catalog, a seller can accurately list it as “Stem 1246-3 for Bulova 11ALACD,” increasing both trust and value.

Final Thoughts

Pages 11 through 20 of the Bulova Part Number Index continue the methodical, engineering-focused approach that made Bulova one of the most respected names in mid-century horology. For those restoring, collecting, or trading in vintage Bulova watches, this section is a critical bridge between identification and action—making accurate service, restoration, and inventory management not only possible, but precise.

These pages are more than just lists—they are a blueprint for preserving mechanical history.