Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 vs Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139
Two timepieces compared — $500–$1,000 vs $250–$500
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) delivers Self-Winding Automatic technology in the tier below the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The PRX Powermatic 80 justifies its premium with Swiss Made heritage and Automatic Powermatic 80.111. Both represent excellent choices in the timepiece category.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $500–$1,000 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 40mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Automatic Powermatic 80.111 | Automatic, 21 Jewels |
| Caliber Type | In-House Automatic (ETA C07.111 base) | Self-Winding Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 80 Hours | — |
| Water Resistance | 100m (10 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Scratch-resistant Sapphire | Domed Crystal |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Swiss Made | Japanese Movement |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Tissot's design language vs Bulova's approach
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 features a 316L Stainless Steel case at 40mm with Scratch-resistant Sapphire protection. The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 offers Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel construction at 45mm with Domed Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Powermatic 80.111 vs Automatic, 21 Jewels
The PRX Powermatic 80 runs the Automatic Powermatic 80.111 (In-House Automatic (ETA C07.111 base), 80 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Classic Automatic 98A139 uses the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard reserve) at standard. The PRX Powermatic 80 edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
40mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 40mm, the PRX Powermatic 80 wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Classic Automatic 98A139 at 45mm. Water resistance differs: 100m (10 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 sits at $500–$1,000 and the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the PRX Powermatic 80 uses Scratch-resistant Sapphire with 80 Hours, against Domed Crystal and a standard reserve on the Classic Automatic 98A139. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
100m (10 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The PRX Powermatic 80 is rated to 100m (10 ATM) while the Classic Automatic 98A139 handles 30m (3 ATM). The PRX Powermatic 80 is better suited for water activities.
Our Verdict
Tissot
PRX Powermatic 80
Choose the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 if you prioritize In-House Automatic (ETA C07.111 base) engineering, Swiss Made craftsmanship, and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. At $500–$1,000, it delivers Automatic Powermatic 80.111 with 80 Hours power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonBulova
Classic Automatic 98A139
Choose the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 if you value Self-Winding Automatic technology, Japanese Movement heritage, and 45mm proportions. At $250–$500, the Automatic, 21 Jewels with ample power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 and Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Tissot bringing Swiss Made tradition while Bulova 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.