Bulova Surveyor Automatic vs Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph
Bulova's dress watch meets Hamilton's chronograph
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic ($250–$500) offers Miyota Automatic precision in the tier below the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph ($2,500–$5,000). The Surveyor Automatic measures 39mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Surveyor Automatic | Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Case Size | 39mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic Miyota 8215 | Automatic H-31 |
| Caliber Type | Miyota Automatic | Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph |
| Power Reserve | 42 Hours | 60 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM) |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal | Sapphire (Domed) |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Made in Japan (Movement) | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Hamilton's approach
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic features a Stainless Steel case at 39mm with Sapphire Crystal protection. The Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph offers Stainless Steel construction at 40mm with Sapphire (Domed). Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Miyota 8215 vs Automatic H-31
The Surveyor Automatic runs the Automatic Miyota 8215 (Miyota Automatic, 42 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph uses the Automatic H-31 (Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph, 60 Hours reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
39mm vs 40mm — different wrist presence
At 39mm, the Surveyor Automatic wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph at 40mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Bulova sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic sits at $250–$500 and the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph at $2,500–$5,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Surveyor Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal with 42 Hours, against Sapphire (Domed) and 60 Hours on the Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM)
The Surveyor Automatic is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph handles 100m (10 ATM). The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph offers superior water resistance.
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 AmazonHamilton
Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph
Choose the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph if you value Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $2,500–$5,000, the Automatic H-31 with 60 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic and Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Made in Japan (Movement) tradition while Hamilton 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.