Bulova Surveyor Automatic vs Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248
Bulova's dress watch meets Citizen's pilot watch
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic ($250–$500) and Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 ($250–$500) are closely matched timepieces at similar price points. The Surveyor Automatic emphasizes Miyota Automatic engineering while the Promaster Sky CB0248 focuses on Citizen (Japan) craftsmanship.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Surveyor Automatic | Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 39mm | 42.4mm |
| Movement | Automatic Miyota 8215 | Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled |
| Caliber Type | Miyota Automatic | Citizen Eco-Drive |
| Power Reserve | 42 Hours | — |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | — |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal | — |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Made in Japan (Movement) | Citizen (Japan) |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Citizen's approach
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic features a Stainless Steel case at 39mm with Sapphire Crystal protection. The Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 offers Stainless Steel construction at 42.4mm with crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Miyota 8215 vs Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled
The Surveyor Automatic runs the Automatic Miyota 8215 (Miyota Automatic, 42 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Promaster Sky CB0248 uses the Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled (Citizen Eco-Drive, standard reserve) at standard. The Surveyor Automatic edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
39mm vs 42.4mm — different wrist presence
At 39mm, the Surveyor Automatic wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Promaster Sky CB0248 at 42.4mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 50m.
Value & Cost of Ownership
Same tier — different value propositions
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic sits at $250–$500 and the Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Surveyor Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal with 42 Hours, against a hardened crystal and a standard reserve on the Promaster Sky CB0248. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 50m
The Surveyor Automatic is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Promaster Sky CB0248 handles 50m. The Surveyor Automatic is better suited for water activities.
Our Verdict
Bulova
Surveyor Automatic
Choose the Bulova Surveyor Automatic if you prioritize Miyota Automatic engineering, Made in Japan (Movement) craftsmanship, and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. At $250–$500, it delivers Automatic Miyota 8215 with 42 Hours power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonCitizen
Promaster Sky CB0248
Choose the Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 if you value Citizen Eco-Drive technology, Citizen (Japan) heritage, and 42.4mm proportions. At $250–$500, the Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled with ample power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic and Citizen Promaster Sky CB0248 represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Made in Japan (Movement) tradition while Citizen delivers Citizen (Japan) 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.