Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350
Bulova's timepiece meets Bulova's diver
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 counters with Made in Japan (Movement) craftsmanship and 200m (20 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 41mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Miyota 8215 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Miyota Automatic |
| Power Reserve | — | 42 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 200m (20 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Made in Japan (Movement) |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Bulova's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 offers Stainless Steel construction at 41mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Miyota 8215
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 uses the Automatic Miyota 8215 (Miyota Automatic, 42 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 41mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 at 41mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 at $500–$1,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal and 42 Hours on the Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 handles 200m (20 ATM). The Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 offers superior water resistance.
Our Verdict
Bulova
Classic Automatic 98A139
Choose the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 if you prioritize Self-Winding Automatic engineering, Japanese Movement craftsmanship, and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. At $250–$500, it delivers Automatic, 21 Jewels with solid power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonBulova
Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350
Choose the Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 if you value Miyota Automatic technology, Made in Japan (Movement) heritage, and 41mm proportions. At $500–$1,000, the Automatic Miyota 8215 with 42 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Bulova Devil Diver Oceanographer 96B350 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Bulova delivers Made in Japan (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.