Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $1,500–$2,500
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart ($1,500–$2,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Freelancer Open Heart 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 | Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 42mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic Caliber RW4200 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Automatic (Sellita SW200 base) |
| Power Reserve | — | 38 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire with Antiglare |
| 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 Raymond Weil's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart offers Stainless Steel construction at 42mm with Sapphire with Antiglare. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic Caliber RW4200
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Freelancer Open Heart uses the Automatic Caliber RW4200 (Automatic (Sellita SW200 base), 38 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Freelancer Open Heart offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 42mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Freelancer Open Heart at 42mm. 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 Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart 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 with Antiglare and 38 Hours on the Freelancer Open Heart. 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 Freelancer Open Heart handles 100m (10 ATM). The Freelancer Open Heart 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 AmazonRaymond Weil
Freelancer Open Heart
Choose the Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart if you value Automatic (Sellita SW200 base) technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 42mm proportions. At $1,500–$2,500, the Automatic Caliber RW4200 with 38 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Raymond Weil Freelancer Open Heart represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Raymond Weil 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.