Updated
Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial)
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $10,000–$25,000
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) ($10,000–$25,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and Not stated by the listing water resistance. Both are exceptional timepieces for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $10,000–$25,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | About 29mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Quartz or automatic (the listing says both; the Octagon was made in each) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Cartier, per the version |
| Power Reserve | — | Not stated |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | Not stated by the listing |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless steel, octagonal screwed bezel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Cartier's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) offers Stainless steel, octagonal screwed bezel construction at About 29mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Quartz or automatic (the listing says both; the Octagon was made in each)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) uses the Quartz or automatic (the listing says both; the Octagon was made in each) (Cartier, per the version, Not stated reserve) at standard. Power reserves are closely matched.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs About 29mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) at About 29mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs Not stated by the listing.
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) at $10,000–$25,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal and Not stated on the Santos Octagon (steel, black dial). Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs Not stated by the listing
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) handles Not stated by the listing. The Classic Automatic 98A139 is better suited for water activities.
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 AmazonCartier
Santos Octagon (steel, black dial)
Choose the Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) if you value Cartier, per the version technology, Swiss Made heritage, and About 29mm proportions. At $10,000–$25,000, the Quartz or automatic (the listing says both; the Octagon was made in each) with Not stated power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Cartier Santos Octagon (steel, black dial) represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Cartier delivers Swiss Made 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.