Bulova Surveyor Automatic vs Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout"
Bulova's dress watch meets Timex's field watch
Quick Verdict
The Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" ($50–$100) delivers Quartz (Battery) technology in the tier below the Bulova Surveyor Automatic ($250–$500). The Expedition Metal Field "Scout" measures 40mm and is rated 50m (5 ATM). The Surveyor Automatic justifies its premium with Made in Japan (Movement) heritage and Automatic Miyota 8215. Both represent excellent choices in the luxury watch category.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Surveyor Automatic | Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $50–$100 |
| Case Size | 39mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic Miyota 8215 | Quartz (3-Hand, Date) |
| Caliber Type | Miyota Automatic | Quartz (Battery) |
| Power Reserve | 42 Hours | Battery |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 50m (5 ATM) |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal | Mineral Glass |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Brass (Gunmetal Finish) |
| Origin | Made in Japan (Movement) | Timex (USA Design) |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Bulova's design language vs Timex's approach
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic features a Stainless Steel case at 39mm with Sapphire Crystal protection. The Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" offers Brass (Gunmetal Finish) construction at 40mm with Mineral Glass. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Miyota 8215 vs Quartz (3-Hand, Date)
The Surveyor Automatic runs the Automatic Miyota 8215 (Miyota Automatic, 42 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Expedition Metal Field "Scout" uses the Quartz (3-Hand, Date) (Quartz (Battery), Battery reserve) at standard. The Surveyor Automatic edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
39mm vs 40mm — different wrist presence
At 39mm, the Surveyor Automatic wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Expedition Metal Field "Scout" at 40mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Timex sits in the lower tier
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic sits at $250–$500 and the Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" at $50–$100. On the specs that outlast any price: the Surveyor Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal with 42 Hours, against Mineral Glass and Battery on the Expedition Metal Field "Scout". Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 50m (5 ATM)
The Surveyor Automatic is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Expedition Metal Field "Scout" handles 50m (5 ATM). The Expedition Metal Field "Scout" 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 AmazonTimex
Expedition Metal Field "Scout"
Choose the Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" if you value Quartz (Battery) technology, Timex (USA Design) heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $50–$100, the Quartz (3-Hand, Date) with Battery power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic and Timex Expedition Metal Field "Scout" represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Made in Japan (Movement) tradition while Timex delivers Timex (USA Design) 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.

