Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $500–$1,000
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The PRX Powermatic 80 35mm counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional timepieces for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 35mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | ETA/Tissot Automatic |
| Power Reserve | — | 80 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| 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 Tissot's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm offers Stainless Steel construction at 35mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The PRX Powermatic 80 35mm uses the Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111) (ETA/Tissot Automatic, 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The PRX Powermatic 80 35mm offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 35mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the PRX Powermatic 80 35mm at 35mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm at $500–$1,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal and 80 Hours on the PRX Powermatic 80 35mm. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the PRX Powermatic 80 35mm handles 100m (10 ATM). The PRX Powermatic 80 35mm 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 AmazonTissot
PRX Powermatic 80 35mm
Choose the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm if you value ETA/Tissot Automatic technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 35mm proportions. At $500–$1,000, the Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111) with 80 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Tissot 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.