Head-to-Head Comparison

Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic

Bulova's timepiece meets Maurice Lacroix's diver

Quick Verdict

The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic ($1,500–$2,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Aikon Automatic counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 200m (20 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.

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Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139

Bulova

Classic Automatic 98A139

$250–$500

Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic

Maurice Lacroix

Aikon Automatic

$1,500–$2,500

Specifications Compared

FeatureBulova Classic Automatic 98A139Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic
Price$250–$500$1,500–$2,500
Case Size45mm42mm
MovementAutomatic, 21 JewelsAutomatic ML115
Caliber TypeSelf-Winding AutomaticAutomatic (Sellita SW200-1 base)
Power Reserve38 Hours
Water Resistance30m (3 ATM)200m (20 ATM)
CrystalDomed CrystalSapphire Crystal
Case MaterialBlack Ion-Plated Stainless SteelStainless Steel
OriginJapanese MovementSwiss Made

Category-by-Category Analysis

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Design & Aesthetics

Edge: Draw

Bulova's design language vs Maurice Lacroix's approach

The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic offers Stainless Steel construction at 42mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.

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Movement & Performance

Edge: Maurice Lacroix

Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic ML115

The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Aikon Automatic uses the Automatic ML115 (Automatic (Sellita SW200-1 base), 38 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Aikon Automatic offers a longer power reserve.

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Wearability & Fit

Edge: Maurice Lacroix

45mm vs 42mm — different wrist presence

At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Aikon Automatic at 42mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM).

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Value & Cost of Ownership

Edge: Bulova

Bulova sits in the lower tier

The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic at $1,500–$2,500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal and 38 Hours on the Aikon Automatic. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.

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Water Resistance

Edge: Maurice Lacroix

30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM)

The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Aikon Automatic handles 200m (20 ATM). The Aikon 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.

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Maurice Lacroix

Aikon Automatic

Choose the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic if you value Automatic (Sellita SW200-1 base) technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 42mm proportions. At $1,500–$2,500, the Automatic ML115 with 38 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.

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The Bottom Line

The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Maurice Lacroix delivers Swiss Made engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Neither is objectively better — they serve different preferences. The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Automatic, 21 Jewels with reliable power reserve, while the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic ($1,500–$2,500) features Automatic ML115 with 200m (20 ATM) water resistance. Choose based on your priorities: Japanese Movement craftsmanship vs Swiss Made engineering.
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 offers better upfront value, sitting a tier lower at $250–$500. However, the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic may justify its premium with superior finishing, heritage, or resale value.
Both are suitable for daily wear. The Classic Automatic 98A139 at 45mm with 30m (3 ATM) water resistance handles everyday situations. The Aikon Automatic at 42mm with 200m (20 ATM) is similarly capable. The Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal while the Aikon Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal.

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.