Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Orient Bambino Open Heart
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $250–$500
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) and Orient Bambino Open Heart ($250–$500) are closely matched timepieces at similar price points. The Classic Automatic 98A139 emphasizes Self-Winding Automatic engineering while the Bambino Open Heart focuses on Japanese Movement craftsmanship.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Orient Bambino Open Heart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 40.5mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Caliber F6T22 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Orient In-House Automatic, hand-winding and hacking |
| Power Reserve | — | 40 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Domed Mineral Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Japanese Movement |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Orient's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Orient Bambino Open Heart offers Stainless Steel construction at 40.5mm with Domed Mineral Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Caliber F6T22
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Bambino Open Heart uses the Automatic Caliber F6T22 (Orient In-House Automatic, hand-winding and hacking, 40 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Bambino Open Heart offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 40.5mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Bambino Open Heart at 40.5mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Same tier — different value propositions
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Orient Bambino Open Heart at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Domed Mineral Crystal and 40 Hours on the Bambino Open Heart. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Bambino Open Heart handles 30m (3 ATM). Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
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 AmazonOrient
Bambino Open Heart
Choose the Orient Bambino Open Heart if you value Orient In-House Automatic, hand-winding and hacking technology, Japanese Movement heritage, and 40.5mm proportions. At $250–$500, the Automatic Caliber F6T22 with 40 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Orient Bambino Open Heart represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Orient 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.