The Bulova 98A139 is marketed as a refined yet moderately priced automatic men’s watch that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern styling. Featuring a 21-jewel automatic movement, open aperture dial, hack feature, luminous hands, and an exhibition case back, this model clearly aims to attract buyers who appreciate mechanical timepieces without stepping into luxury price territory. On paper, it checks many of the right boxes. It eliminates the need for batteries, runs on wrist movement, and offers the visual appeal of an open-heart design that lets you see the movement in action. For collectors who enjoy mechanical watches, that alone can be a strong selling point.
Visually, the watch makes a bold impression. The case is large and thick, which gives it wrist presence and makes it more suitable for men with medium to large wrists. The open aperture detail and exhibition case back elevate the aesthetic, especially for those who enjoy seeing the inner workings of their timepiece. Several owners appreciate the styling and describe it as eye-catching and stylish. The leather strap gives it a classic look, and at first glance, the build quality appears solid. However, size is something potential buyers must consider carefully. Many reviews mention that the watch is significantly larger than expected, sometimes overwhelming on average-sized wrists. Additionally, the dark dial versions with black hands can reduce readability, especially under low lighting conditions. While the design is attractive, it is not universally practical.
Where opinions start to divide sharply is performance and reliability. Some long-term Bulova owners report positive experiences with the brand, praising older models for accuracy and durability. However, with the Bulova 98A139, there are repeated concerns about power reserve issues, watches running fast, mechanisms failing within months, and even complete stoppage after short usage. Several buyers reported that the watch stopped working within six months. Others described inconsistent timekeeping that required daily adjustment. There are also complaints regarding strap wear, scratches upon arrival, and damaged packaging. A few customers questioned whether the movement justifies the price, noting that similar movements can be sourced at significantly lower cost. Water resistance has also been criticized, with at least one user discovering it was not as resistant as expected. Customer service experiences appear mixed, with some reporting long repair wait times and repeated mechanical failures even after servicing.
Pros of Bulova 98A139
- Attractive open heart design
- 21-jewel automatic movement eliminates battery changes
- Hack feature for precise time setting
- Exhibition case back adds mechanical appeal
- Strong wrist presence for larger wrists
- Stylish overall design that stands out
Cons of Bulova 98A139
- A large and thick case may not suit average wrists
- Reports of poor power reserve (under 24 hours in some cases)
- Some units run fast and require frequent adjustments
- Cases of mechanical failure within months
- Strap durability concerns
- Dial readability issues on darker versions
- Mixed customer service experience
- Questionable value relative to movement cost
Rating: 2.5 / 5
The Bulova Men’s Classic 98A139 automatic watch delivers on aesthetics but struggles in reliability based on multiple user experiences. While some buyers receive functioning pieces and enjoy the styling, the number of reported mechanical issues raises concerns about consistency and quality control.
Final Thoughts
The Bulova 98A139 review reveals a watch that looks better than it performs for many users. If you prioritize design and can secure it at a significant discount, it may serve as a stylish addition to a collection. However, if you want dependable long-term accuracy and strong durability, you should carefully weigh the recurring complaints before purchasing. For a watch in this price range, reliability should match appearance, and in this case, results appear inconsistent.