Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T
Bulova's timepiece meets Citizen's chronograph
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Promaster Skyhawk A-T counters with Made in Japan 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 | Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Eco-Drive (Radio-Controlled, Atomic Timekeeping) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Citizen Eco-Drive U680 (Solar + Radio-Controlled) |
| Power Reserve | — | — |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 200m (20 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel (Black Ion-Plated) |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Made in Japan |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Citizen's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T offers Stainless Steel (Black Ion-Plated) construction at 45mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Eco-Drive (Radio-Controlled, Atomic Timekeeping)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Promaster Skyhawk A-T uses the Eco-Drive (Radio-Controlled, Atomic Timekeeping) (Citizen Eco-Drive U680 (Solar + Radio-Controlled), standard reserve) at standard. Power reserves are closely matched.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 is similarly sized compared to the Promaster Skyhawk A-T at 45mm. 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 Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T 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 a standard reserve on the Promaster Skyhawk A-T. 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 Promaster Skyhawk A-T handles 200m (20 ATM). The Promaster Skyhawk A-T 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 AmazonCitizen
Promaster Skyhawk A-T
Choose the Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T if you value Citizen Eco-Drive U680 (Solar + Radio-Controlled) technology, Made in Japan heritage, and 45mm proportions. At $500–$1,000, the Eco-Drive (Radio-Controlled, Atomic Timekeeping) with ample power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Citizen delivers Made in Japan 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.