Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R
Bulova's timepiece meets Patek Philippe's dress watch
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R ($25,000+). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Calatrava 6119R counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $25,000+ |
| Case Size | 45mm | 39mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Manual-Wind Caliber 30-255 PS |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Patek Philippe In-House Manual-Wind |
| Power Reserve | — | 65 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | 18k Rose Gold |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Patek Philippe's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R offers 18k Rose Gold construction at 39mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Manual-Wind Caliber 30-255 PS
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Calatrava 6119R uses the Manual-Wind Caliber 30-255 PS (Patek Philippe In-House Manual-Wind, 65 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Calatrava 6119R offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 39mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Calatrava 6119R at 39mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R at $25,000+. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal and 65 Hours on the Calatrava 6119R. 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 Calatrava 6119R 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 AmazonPatek Philippe
Calatrava 6119R
Choose the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R if you value Patek Philippe In-House Manual-Wind technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 39mm proportions. At $25,000+, the Manual-Wind Caliber 30-255 PS with 65 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Patek Philippe 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.