Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80
Bulova's timepiece meets Tissot's dress watch
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 50m (5 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 42.0mm |
| 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) | 50m (5 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 Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 offers Stainless Steel construction at 42.0mm 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 Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 uses the Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111) (ETA/Tissot Automatic, 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 42.0mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 at 42.0mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 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 Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 handles 50m (5 ATM). The Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 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
Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80
Choose the Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 if you value ETA/Tissot Automatic technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 42.0mm 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 Chemin des Tourelles Powermatic 80 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — 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.