Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Tissot Seastar 1000 Automatic
Bulova's timepiece meets Tissot's diver
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Tissot Seastar 1000 Automatic ($500–$1,000). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Seastar 1000 Automatic counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 300m (30 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Tissot Seastar 1000 Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Case Size | 45mm | 40mm |
| 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) | 300m (30 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 Seastar 1000 Automatic 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 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 Seastar 1000 Automatic uses the Automatic Powermatic 80 (Caliber 80.111) (ETA/Tissot Automatic, 80 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). The Seastar 1000 Automatic 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 Seastar 1000 Automatic at 40mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Tissot Seastar 1000 Automatic 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 Seastar 1000 Automatic. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Seastar 1000 Automatic handles 300m (30 ATM). The Seastar 1000 Automatic 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
Seastar 1000 Automatic
Choose the Tissot Seastar 1000 Automatic if you value ETA/Tissot Automatic technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 40mm 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 Seastar 1000 Automatic 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.