Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Junghans Form A Automatic
Bulova's timepiece meets Junghans's dress watch
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Junghans Form A Automatic ($1,000–$1,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Form A Automatic counters with Made in Germany craftsmanship and 50m (5 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Junghans Form A Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 39.3mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic J800.2 (ETA 2824-2) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Swiss ETA Base, German-Finished |
| Power Reserve | — | 38 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 50m (5 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Flat Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Made in Germany |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Junghans's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Junghans Form A Automatic offers Stainless Steel construction at 39.3mm with Flat Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic J800.2 (ETA 2824-2)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Form A Automatic uses the Automatic J800.2 (ETA 2824-2) (Swiss ETA Base, German-Finished, 38 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Form A Automatic offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 39.3mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Form A Automatic at 39.3mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Junghans Form A Automatic at $1,000–$1,500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Flat Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating and 38 Hours on the Form A Automatic. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Form A Automatic handles 50m (5 ATM). The Form A Automatic 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 AmazonJunghans
Form A Automatic
Choose the Junghans Form A Automatic if you value Swiss ETA Base, German-Finished technology, Made in Germany heritage, and 39.3mm proportions. At $1,000–$1,500, the Automatic J800.2 (ETA 2824-2) with 38 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Junghans Form A Automatic represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Junghans delivers Made in Germany 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.