Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium
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 Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium counters with Swiss Made (Swatch Group) craftsmanship and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Powermatic 80.811 (Silicon Hairspring) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Hairspring |
| Power Reserve | — | 80 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Swiss Made (Swatch Group) |
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 Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium offers Stainless Steel construction at 40mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Powermatic 80.811 (Silicon Hairspring)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium uses the Powermatic 80.811 (Silicon Hairspring) (ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Hairspring, 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 40mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium at 40mm. 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 Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium 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 Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium. 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 Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium handles 100m (10 ATM). The Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium 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
Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium
Choose the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium if you value ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Hairspring technology, Swiss Made (Swatch Group) heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $500–$1,000, the Powermatic 80.811 (Silicon Hairspring) with 80 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Tissot delivers Swiss Made (Swatch Group) 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.