Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Oris Big Crown Pointer Date
Bulova's timepiece meets Oris's pilot watch
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date ($1,500–$2,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Big Crown Pointer Date counters with Swiss Made 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 | Oris Big Crown Pointer Date |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Oris 754 (Sellita Base) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Modified Sellita Automatic |
| Power Reserve | — | 38 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 50m (5 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire (Domed, Inside AR 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 Big Crown Pointer Date offers Stainless Steel construction at 40mm with Sapphire (Domed, Inside AR Coating). Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Oris 754 (Sellita Base)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Big Crown Pointer Date uses the Automatic Oris 754 (Sellita Base) (Modified Sellita Automatic, 38 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Big Crown Pointer Date offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 40mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Big Crown Pointer Date at 40mm. 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 Oris Big Crown Pointer Date 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 (Domed, Inside AR Coating) and 38 Hours on the Big Crown Pointer Date. 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 Big Crown Pointer Date handles 50m (5 ATM). The Big Crown Pointer Date 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
Big Crown Pointer Date
Choose the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date if you value Modified Sellita Automatic technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $1,500–$2,500, the Automatic Oris 754 (Sellita Base) with 38 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Oris Big Crown Pointer Date 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.