Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Tissot Le Locle 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 Le Locle Powermatic 80 ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Le Locle Powermatic 80 counters with Swiss Made (Swatch Group) craftsmanship and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 39.3mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Powermatic 80.111 |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | ETA-Based Automatic |
| Power Reserve | — | 80 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 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 Le Locle Powermatic 80 offers Stainless Steel construction at 39.3mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Powermatic 80.111
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Le Locle Powermatic 80 uses the Powermatic 80.111 (ETA-Based Automatic, 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Le Locle Powermatic 80 offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 39.3mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Le Locle Powermatic 80 at 39.3mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Tissot Le Locle 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 Le Locle Powermatic 80. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Le Locle Powermatic 80 handles 30m (3 ATM). Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
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
Le Locle Powermatic 80
Choose the Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 if you value ETA-Based Automatic technology, Swiss Made (Swatch Group) heritage, and 39.3mm proportions. At $500–$1,000, the Powermatic 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 Le Locle Powermatic 80 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.