Bulova 1960 International

Submitted by samuelasselin on
Manufacture Year
1960
Movement Model
11AFAC
Movement Jewels
17
Case Serial No.
26 3647
Case shape
Round
Case color
Yellow
Case Manufacturer
Bulova
Gender
Mens
Watch Description

I’m trying to identify this vintage Bulova watch. Here are the details I have:

  • Brand: Bulova
  • Movement: Selfwinding, Caliber 11AFAC
  • Case back: Number engraved: 26 3647
  • Bezel: Fluted
  • Era: Mid-1960s (based on movement)

I haven’t been able to find the exact model online, especially with this fluted bezel. Any help identifying the model or providing more information would be greatly appreciated!

front
mouvement
back
side
mybulova_admin
Posted September 24, 2025 - 6:49am

The case is giving me 'after market' vibes but I'm not 100% sure.

The dial, hands and crown combination are a match for both the 1960 Bulova Dolphin and Seabee "A" models.

1960 Bulova Dolphin & Seabee

mybulova_admin
Posted September 26, 2025 - 11:48pm

I missed that part where the dial has 'SELFWINDING" but the above 2 models do not and do not mention that function.

mart1n888
Posted September 24, 2025 - 12:30pm

lugs are different on seabee....

Dolphin seem a good match !

samuelasselin
Posted September 24, 2025 - 12:39pm

The watch was on a fixo-flex bracelet (c.pat 505676).   This watch belonged to my grandfather who was a jeweler.

Andersok
Posted September 24, 2025 - 3:32pm

One thing I see is the movement does not have an import code on the movement - possible not a US model.

Andersok
Posted September 24, 2025 - 6:38pm

Some of the caseback engravings have me stumped for an early 60s model. Bulova did not use Water Resistant until the late 60s and had used Waterproof prior to that. The case should match the dial and have Self-Winding instead of Automatic (a more later 60s term) though we do have a 1964 International book that uses Automatic only where at that same time US models used only Self-Winding. Also Bulova would use Shock Resistant instead of Shock Absorber. I sort of wonder if different period pieces have been brought together.

Geoff Baker
Posted September 24, 2025 - 8:32pm

I'm leaning to this being an International Bulova model based on the case back markings not being consistent with US production models in 1960. Where did you grandfather live?

JimDon5822
Posted September 24, 2025 - 9:26pm

This one just does not seem to be consistent with any Bulova markings.  I can go along with International.