Omega Speedmaster Professional vs Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139
Omega's chronograph meets Bulova's timepiece
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) delivers Self-Winding Automatic technology in the tier below the Omega Speedmaster Professional ($5,000–$10,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Speedmaster Professional justifies its premium with Swiss Made heritage and Manual-Winding Caliber 3861. Both represent excellent choices in the luxury watch category.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Omega Speedmaster Professional | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $5,000–$10,000 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 42mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Manual-Winding Caliber 3861 | Automatic, 21 Jewels |
| Caliber Type | In-House Manual-Winding Manufacture (Co-Axial) | Self-Winding Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 50 Hours | — |
| Water Resistance | 50m (5 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Hesalite or Sapphire | Domed Crystal |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Swiss Made | Japanese Movement |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Omega's design language vs Bulova's approach
The Omega Speedmaster Professional features a Stainless Steel case at 42mm with Hesalite or 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
Manual-Winding Caliber 3861 vs Automatic, 21 Jewels
The Speedmaster Professional runs the Manual-Winding Caliber 3861 (In-House Manual-Winding Manufacture (Co-Axial), 50 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 Speedmaster Professional edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
42mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 42mm, the Speedmaster Professional wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Classic Automatic 98A139 at 45mm. Water resistance differs: 50m (5 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Omega Speedmaster Professional sits at $5,000–$10,000 and the Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Speedmaster Professional uses Hesalite or Sapphire with 50 Hours, against Domed Crystal and a standard reserve on the Classic Automatic 98A139. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
50m (5 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Speedmaster Professional is rated to 50m (5 ATM) while the Classic Automatic 98A139 handles 30m (3 ATM). The Speedmaster Professional is better suited for water activities.
Our Verdict
Omega
Speedmaster Professional
Choose the Omega Speedmaster Professional if you prioritize In-House Manual-Winding Manufacture (Co-Axial) engineering, Swiss Made craftsmanship, and 50m (5 ATM) water resistance. At $5,000–$10,000, it delivers Manual-Winding Caliber 3861 with 50 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 Omega Speedmaster Professional and Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Omega 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.