Hi, I just acquired this lovely black dial 1956 Bulova, I believe it is a President and because of the black dial a "D" version, otherwise I would have said a "A", anybody has any comments ? Unfortunately the back case has no reference, outside or inside, it must have been replaced over the years, too bad. Caliber is a good looking and perfectly working 11AC (marked L6).
It certainly appears to be a President, however a lack of case markings may make it problematic for assigning it a name as such. Can you provide photos of the outside and inside of the case back? That would help alot.
Panel; correct me if I'm wrong but I am pretty sure all similar examples in the database of this time frame with lugs matching subject watch are front loading cases and in the generic section without a variant letter assigned.
Although it's a beautiful watch, If the case is replaced it falls into the category of "non-conforming", meaning not all Bulova parts.
In reply to It certainly appears to be a by neetstuf-4-u
Thanks for the reply and for confirming the "president" info... unfortunately the case back appears to be perfectly fitting of course bu perhaps non original as it' s got no markings inside and outside. It does have however the necessary internal removable ring, I do have the photos you requested below.
thanks and regards
Roby
Thanks for the photos, that is a big help. Screw back configuration and no Bulova signature or serial number is a good indication it's a replacement case. Presidents in this era didn't have a screw back case. They were front loaders or snap backs. Even if the movement and face/hands are indeed original 1956 President and watch presents as such on the wrist; the re-case makes a large portion of the watch not Bulova original equipment.
Wear it an enjoy it, it's a beauty. Sorry, but unfortunately it's my opinion that technically it's a
1956 Bulova nonconforming - noting likely "President origins" and appearance
In reply to Thanks for the photos, that by neetstuf-4-u