Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic vs Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $250–$500
Quick Verdict
The Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic ($250–$500) and Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) are closely matched timepieces at similar price points. The Tsuyosa Automatic emphasizes Citizen/Miyota In-House Automatic engineering while the Classic Automatic 98A139 focuses on Japanese Movement craftsmanship.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 40mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Automatic Caliber 8210 | Automatic, 21 Jewels |
| Caliber Type | Citizen/Miyota In-House Automatic | Self-Winding Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 40 Hours | — |
| Water Resistance | 50m (5 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops | Domed Crystal |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Made in Japan | Japanese Movement |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Citizen's design language vs Bulova's approach
The Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic features a Stainless Steel case at 40mm with Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops 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 Caliber 8210 vs Automatic, 21 Jewels
The Tsuyosa Automatic runs the Automatic Caliber 8210 (Citizen/Miyota In-House Automatic, 40 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Classic Automatic 98A139 uses the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard reserve) at standard. The Tsuyosa Automatic edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
40mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 40mm, the Tsuyosa Automatic wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Classic Automatic 98A139 at 45mm. Water resistance differs: 50m (5 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Same tier — different value propositions
The Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic sits at $250–$500 and the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Tsuyosa Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops with 40 Hours, against Domed Crystal and a standard reserve on the Classic Automatic 98A139. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
50m (5 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Tsuyosa Automatic is rated to 50m (5 ATM) while the Classic Automatic 98A139 handles 30m (3 ATM). The Tsuyosa Automatic is better suited for water activities.
Our Verdict
Citizen
Tsuyosa Automatic
Choose the Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic if you prioritize Citizen/Miyota In-House Automatic engineering, Made in Japan craftsmanship, and 50m (5 ATM) water resistance. At $250–$500, it delivers Automatic Caliber 8210 with 40 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 Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic and Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Citizen bringing Made in Japan 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.