Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Mido Ocean Star GMT
Bulova's timepiece meets Mido's diver
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Mido Ocean Star GMT ($1,000–$1,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Ocean Star GMT counters with Swiss Made 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 | Mido Ocean Star GMT |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 44mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Caliber 80 (Base ETA C07.661) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Automatic (ETA C07.661 base) |
| Power Reserve | — | 80 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 200m (20 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire with Double-sided AR |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Mido's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Mido Ocean Star GMT offers Stainless Steel construction at 44mm with Sapphire with Double-sided AR. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Caliber 80 (Base ETA C07.661)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Ocean Star GMT uses the Automatic Caliber 80 (Base ETA C07.661) (Automatic (ETA C07.661 base), 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Ocean Star GMT offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 44mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Ocean Star GMT at 44mm. 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 Mido Ocean Star GMT at $1,000–$1,500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire with Double-sided AR and 80 Hours on the Ocean Star GMT. 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 Ocean Star GMT handles 200m (20 ATM). The Ocean Star GMT 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 AmazonMido
Ocean Star GMT
Choose the Mido Ocean Star GMT if you value Automatic (ETA C07.661 base) technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 44mm proportions. At $1,000–$1,500, the Automatic Caliber 80 (Base ETA C07.661) with 80 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Mido Ocean Star GMT represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Mido 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.