Updated
Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 vs Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold)
Bulova's timepiece meets Ulysse Nardin's chronograph
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 ($250–$500) offers Self-Winding Automatic precision in the tier below the Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) ($25,000+). The Classic Automatic 98A139 measures 45mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 200m (20 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 | Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $25,000+ |
| Case Size | 45mm | 43mm |
| Movement | Automatic, 21 Jewels | Automatic, Ulysse Nardin UN-118 (in-house) |
| Caliber Type | Self-Winding Automatic | UN-118, DIAMonSIL escapement, silicon balance spring, COSC-certified |
| Power Reserve | — | About 60 hours, indicator at 12 |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 200m (20 ATM) |
| Crystal | Domed Crystal | Sapphire Crystal, sapphire caseback |
| Case Material | Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel | 18k rose gold, fluted 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 Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) offers 18k rose gold, fluted bezel construction at 43mm with Sapphire Crystal, sapphire caseback. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic, 21 Jewels vs Automatic, Ulysse Nardin UN-118 (in-house)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 runs the Automatic, 21 Jewels (Self-Winding Automatic, standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) uses the Automatic, Ulysse Nardin UN-118 (in-house) (UN-118, DIAMonSIL escapement, silicon balance spring, COSC-certified, About 60 hours, indicator at 12 reserve) at standard. The Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
45mm vs 43mm — different wrist presence
At 45mm, the Classic Automatic 98A139 has a bolder wrist presence compared to the Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) at 43mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 sits at $250–$500 and the Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) 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 60 hours, indicator at 12 on the Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold). Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 200m (20 ATM)
The Classic Automatic 98A139 is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) handles 200m (20 ATM). The Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) 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 AmazonUlysse Nardin
Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold)
Choose the Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) if you value UN-118, DIAMonSIL escapement, silicon balance spring, COSC-certified technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 43mm proportions. At $25,000+, the Automatic, Ulysse Nardin UN-118 (in-house) with About 60 hours, indicator at 12 power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Classic Automatic 98A139 and Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture 43mm (18k rose gold) represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — 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.