Updated
Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium)
Two timepieces compared — $250–$500 vs $25,000+
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) ($25,000+). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional timepieces for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $25,000+ |
| Case Size | 45mm | 45mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Hand-wound, Ulysse Nardin UN-171 flying tourbillon |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | UN-171, hand-wound, silicon escapement |
| Power Reserve | — | About 170 hours (seven days) |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal, sapphire caseback |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | Titanium, black ceramic bezel |
| Origin | Japanese Movement | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Ulysse Nardin's approach
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 features a Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel case at 45mm with Domed Crystal protection. The Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) offers Titanium, black ceramic bezel construction at 45mm with Sapphire Crystal, sapphire caseback. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Hand-wound, Ulysse Nardin UN-171 flying tourbillon
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) uses the Hand-wound, Ulysse Nardin UN-171 flying tourbillon (UN-171, hand-wound, silicon escapement, About 170 hours (seven days) reserve) at standard. The Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 45mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 is similarly sized compared to the Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) at 45mm. 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 Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) at $25,000+. On the specs that outlast any price: the Classic Automatic 98A139 uses Domed Crystal with a standard reserve, against Sapphire Crystal, sapphire caseback and About 170 hours (seven days) on the Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium). 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 Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) 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 AmazonUlysse Nardin
Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium)
Choose the Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) if you value UN-171, hand-wound, silicon escapement technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 45mm proportions. At $25,000+, the Hand-wound, Ulysse Nardin UN-171 flying tourbillon with About 170 hours (seven days) power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton Tourbillon 45mm (titanium) represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Bulova bringing Japanese Movement tradition while Ulysse Nardin 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.