Bulova Surveyor Automatic vs Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm
Bulova's dress watch meets Timex's timepiece
Quick Verdict
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic ($250–$500) and Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm ($250–$500) are closely matched timepieces at similar price points. The Surveyor Automatic emphasizes Miyota Automatic engineering while the Marlin Automatic 40mm focuses on Made in Japan (Movement) craftsmanship.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Bulova Surveyor Automatic | Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250–$500 | $250–$500 |
| Case Size | 39mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic Miyota 8215 | Automatic Miyota 8205 |
| Caliber Type | Miyota Automatic | Miyota Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 42 Hours | 40 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 30m (3 ATM) |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal | Mineral Crystal |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Made in Japan (Movement) | Made in Japan (Movement) |
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 Marlin Automatic 40mm offers Stainless Steel construction at 40mm with Mineral Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Miyota 8215 vs Automatic Miyota 8205
The Surveyor Automatic runs the Automatic Miyota 8215 (Miyota Automatic, 42 Hours power reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) frequency. The Marlin Automatic 40mm uses the Automatic Miyota 8205 (Miyota Automatic, 40 Hours reserve) at 21,600 vph (3 Hz). 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 Marlin Automatic 40mm at 40mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Same tier — different value propositions
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic sits at $250–$500 and the Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm at $250–$500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Surveyor Automatic uses Sapphire Crystal with 42 Hours, against Mineral Crystal and 40 Hours on the Marlin Automatic 40mm. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 30m (3 ATM)
The Surveyor Automatic is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the Marlin Automatic 40mm handles 30m (3 ATM). Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
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
Marlin Automatic 40mm
Choose the Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm if you value Miyota Automatic technology, Made in Japan (Movement) heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $250–$500, the Automatic Miyota 8205 with 40 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Bulova Surveyor Automatic and Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Bulova bringing Made in Japan (Movement) tradition while Timex delivers Made in Japan (Movement) 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.