Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400
Bulova's timepiece meets Oris's diver
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 ($2,500–$5,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Aquis Date Calibre 400 counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 300m (30 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 41.5mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Calibre 400 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Oris In-House Manufacture |
| Power Reserve | — | 120 Hours (5 Days) |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 300m (30 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating |
| 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 Oris's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 offers Stainless Steel construction at 41.5mm with Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Calibre 400
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Aquis Date Calibre 400 uses the Automatic Calibre 400 (Oris In-House Manufacture, 120 Hours (5 Days) reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Aquis Date Calibre 400 offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 41.5mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Aquis Date Calibre 400 at 41.5mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 at $2,500–$5,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating and 120 Hours (5 Days) on the Aquis Date Calibre 400. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Aquis Date Calibre 400 handles 300m (30 ATM). The Aquis Date Calibre 400 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 AmazonOris
Aquis Date Calibre 400
Choose the Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 if you value Oris In-House Manufacture technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 41.5mm proportions. At $2,500–$5,000, the Automatic Calibre 400 with 120 Hours (5 Days) power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Oris 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.