Breitling Navitimer B01 vs Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139
Breitling's chronograph meets Bulova's timepiece
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) delivers Self-Winding Automatic technology in the tier below the Breitling Navitimer B01 ($10,000–$25,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Navitimer B01 justifies its premium with Swiss Made heritage and Automatic Breitling 01 (Manufacture). Both represent excellent choices in the luxury watch category.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Breitling Navitimer B01 | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $10,000–$25,000 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 43mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Automatic Breitling 01 (Manufacture) | Automatic, 21 Jewels |
| Caliber Type | In-House Automatic Chronograph Manufacture | Self-Winding Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 Hours | — |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Cambered Sapphire | Domed Crystal |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Swiss Made | Japanese Movement |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Breitling's design language vs Bulova's approach
The Breitling Navitimer B01 features a Stainless Steel case at 43mm with Cambered Sapphire protection. The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 offers Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel construction at 45mm with Domed Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Breitling 01 (Manufacture) vs Automatic, 21 Jewels
The Navitimer B01 runs the Automatic Breitling 01 (Manufacture) (In-House Automatic Chronograph Manufacture, 70 Hours power reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) frequency. The Classic Automatic 98A139 uses the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard reserve) at standard. The Navitimer B01 edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
43mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 43mm, the Navitimer B01 wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Classic Automatic 98A139 at 45mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Breitling Navitimer B01 sits at $10,000–$25,000 and the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Navitimer B01 uses Cambered Sapphire with 70 Hours, against Domed Crystal and a standard reserve on the Classic Automatic 98A139. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Navitimer B01 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Classic Automatic 98A139 handles 30m (3 ATM). Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
Our Verdict
Breitling
Navitimer B01
Choose the Breitling Navitimer B01 if you prioritize In-House Automatic Chronograph Manufacture engineering, Swiss Made craftsmanship, and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. At $10,000–$25,000, it delivers Automatic Breitling 01 (Manufacture) with 70 Hours power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonBulova
Classic Automatic 98A139
Choose the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 if you value Self-Winding Automatic technology, Japanese Movement heritage, and 45mm proportions. At $250–$500, the Automatic, 21 Jewels with ample power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Breitling Navitimer B01 and Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Breitling bringing Swiss Made tradition while Bulova delivers Japanese Movement engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How This Page Was Made
Our comparisons are generated from a hand-maintained specification database and reviewed under our editorial standards. We use AI tools to assemble pages from that data. We don’t invent specs: every number traces back to the database, and when we correct an entry, the fix is applied site-wide. As an Amazon Associate, The Horologist earns from qualifying purchases.