Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation
Bulova's timepiece meets Seiko's diver
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation ($1,000–$1,500). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation counters with Made in Japan craftsmanship and 200m (20 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $1,000–$1,500 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 40.5mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic 6R35 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | Seiko In-House Automatic |
| Power Reserve | — | 70 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 200m (20 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel with Super-Hard Coating |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Made in Japan |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Seiko's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation offers Stainless Steel with Super-Hard Coating construction at 40.5mm with Sapphire. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic 6R35
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation uses the Automatic 6R35 (Seiko In-House Automatic, 70 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 40.5mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation at 40.5mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation at $1,000–$1,500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire and 70 Hours on the Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation handles 200m (20 ATM). The Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation 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 AmazonSeiko
Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation
Choose the Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation if you value Seiko In-House Automatic technology, Made in Japan heritage, and 40.5mm proportions. At $1,000–$1,500, the Automatic 6R35 with 70 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Seiko Prospex 62MAS Modern Re-interpretation represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Seiko delivers Made in Japan 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.