Bulova is worth investigating if you’re searching for a reputable watch brand with traditional American roots and a variety of styles.
Bulova offers a variety of timepieces, including quartz dress watches, automatic models, sporty Marine Star watches, and Precisionist watches, for American consumers on a budget of up to $500. Whether you value everyday wear, mechanical movement, water resistance, dress style, or high-frequency quartz technology will determine which option is best for you.
Based on current U.S. availability and estimated pricing, we concentrate on particular Bulova models that fit the under-$500 budget in this guide.
Quick Comparison: Bulova Watches Under $500
| Model | Movement | Case Size | Water Resistance | Best For | Estimated Price |
| Bulova Marine Star 98B465 | Automatic | 41mm | 200M | Sport & Water Use | ~$395–$495 |
| Bulova Surveyor 98A338 | Automatic | 39mm | Splash Resistant | Dress & Mechanical Style | ~$475–$595 |
| Bulova Surveyor 97A203 | Automatic | 39mm | Splash Resistant | Dress & Open-Heart Style | Around $500 |
| Bulova Classic Wilton 96B390 | Quartz | 41mm | 30M | Office & Dress Wear | ~$350–$425 |
| Bulova Marine Star 96B382 | Quartz | 44mm | 100M | Sporty Everyday Wear | ~$395–$495 |
| Bulova Marine Star 96P248 | Quartz | 36mm | 100M | Women’s Sporty Style | ~$395–$495 |
| Bulova Classic Sutton | Quartz | Varies | Model-specific | Women’s Classic Wear | ~$260–$395 |
| Bulova Precisionist | High-Frequency Quartz | Model-specific | Model-specific | Precision-Focused Buyers | ~$300–$500 |
| Bulova Icon Precisionist | Precisionist Quartz | Model-specific | Model-specific | Modern Sporty Style | Around $495 |
Estimated prices can change by model, color, retailer, promotions, and availability. Bulova’s official U.S. website currently shows different prices for some models depending on ongoing promotions.
Why Consider Bulova Under $500?
Bulova has a lengthy history in the American watch industry and now sells timepieces in a variety of collections and movement styles.
If you have $500, you can find:
- Traditional quartz watches
- Automatic mechanical watches
- High-frequency Precisionist watches
- Dress watches
- Sport watches
- Marine Star models
- Women’s watches
- Stainless-steel bracelet watches
- Leather-strap watches
You can evaluate the actual case size, movement, crystal, water resistance, and price before making a choice if you shop by individual model instead of only by collection.
1. Bulova Marine Star 98B465 – Automatic Sport Watch
One of the most intriguing options available right now for those looking for an automatic watch under $500 is the Bulova Marine Star 98B465.
The model features a unidirectional bezel, screw-down crown, sapphire crystal, 41mm stainless-steel case, and 200 meters of water resistance. It has an automated movement with a power reserve of about 42 hours.
The model is listed by Bulova for $495, however at the time of verification, the U.S. website was displaying a discount price lower than that amount.
Important Features
- Automatic movement
- 41mm case made of stainless steel
- Crystal sapphire
- Water resistance of 200 meters
- Screw-down crown
- One-way bezel
- Rubber strap
- A power reserve of about 42 hours
- Caseback for an exhibition
Ideal For
- Snorkelling and swimming
- Outdoor pursuits
- Sportswear for daily wear
- Customers who are considering purchasing automatic timepieces
Advantages
- Automatic movements
- Crystal sapphire
- Water resistance of 200M
- 41mm is a small size for a sports watch.
Drawbacks
- A more athletic look
- Rubber straps might not go well with formal attire.
- Promotional prices are subject to change.
2. Bulova Surveyor 98A338 – Automatic Open-Heart Watch
The Surveyor 98A338 has an open-heart aperture that allows you to see a portion of the mechanical movement while maintaining a more conventional dress-watch design.
The present U.S. The Bulova listing features an automatic movement, a sapphire crystal, a 42-hour power reserve, and a 39mm two-tone stainless-steel case and band. Its water resistance is not meant for swimming, but rather for splash exposure.
Important Features
- Automatic movement
- 39 mm case
- Stainless steel case and bracelet in two tones
- Crystal sapphire
- Dial with an open heart
- 42-hour power reserve
- Water rating that resists splashes
Ideal For
- Workplace attire
- Dressier events
- Fans of mechanical watches
- Medium-sized and smaller wrists
Advantages
- Small 39mm case
- Crystal sapphire
- Automatic movements
- Unique open-heart style
Drawbacks
- Not meant for swimming
- Formal rather than athletic
- Promotions may have an impact on current prices.
3. Bulova Surveyor 97A203 – Blue Dial Automatic
Another modern automatic variant in the Surveyor lineup is the Surveyor 97A203.
It has a blue dial, an open-heart aperture, a sapphire crystal, a 39mm gold-tone stainless steel case and band, and about 42 hours of battery reserve.
Important Features
- Automatic movement
- 39 mm case
- The blue dial
- Gold-tone bracelet and case made of stainless steel
- Crystal sapphire
- Design with an open heart
- 42-hour power reserve
- Rating for splash resistance
Ideal For
- Business clothes
- Dress-casual attire
- Buyers of mechanical watches
- Customers who favour blue dials
Advantages
- Small case
- Crystal sapphire
- Automatic motion
- Dress-focused design
Drawbacks
- Minimal resistance to water
- Not every ensemble will look good with gold-tone styling.
- Typical retail prices can be in the $500 range.
4. Bulova Classic Wilton 96B390 – Traditional Dress Watch
If you don’t require an automatic movement, the Bulova Classic Wilton 96B390 is a more straightforward option.
It has a 41mm stainless-steel case, a black textured dial, Roman numeral markings, a domed mineral crystal, a calendar display, a black leather strap, and a quartz movement.
Important Features
- Movement of quartz
- 41mm case made of stainless steel
- A black dial
- Roman numeral indicators
- Timetable
- mineral crystal with a dome
- A leather band
- Water resistance of 30 meters
Ideal For
- Workplace attire
- Business-casual attire
- Formal events
- Conventional watch enthusiasts
Advantages
- Traditional style
- Easy quartz operation
- A leather band
- Simple daily upkeep
Drawbacks
- Instead of sapphire, a mineral crystal
- Water resistance of 30M
- Not made for swimming or sports
5. Bulova Marine Star 96B382 – Sporty Quartz Watch
The Marine Star 96B382 is an additional choice if you want a larger sports watch but do not want an automated movement.
The model features a calendar display, a black dial, luminescent hands and markers, a 44mm stainless-steel case, a stainless-steel bracelet, and 100 meters of water resistance.
Important Features
- Movement of quartz
- 44 mm case
- Bracelet made of stainless steel
- Water resistance of 100 meters
- Crystals of minerals
- Markers and luminous hands
- Display of the calendar
Ideal For
Casual attire
Sports-inspired attire
Regular use
Greater wrist size
Advantages
- Strong, athletic appearance
- Water resistance of 100M
- Bracelet made of stainless steel
- Simple quartz operation
Drawbacks
- The 44mm case might seem big.
- Crystals of minerals
- Not as appropriate for formal attire
6. Bulova Marine Star 96P248 – Women’s Sporty Watch
For customers who would rather have a smaller case, the Marine Star series now offers smaller timepieces.
The 96P248 features a 100-meter water resistant, sapphire crystal, and a 36mm stainless-steel case and bracelet.
Important Features
- Movement of quartz
- 36 mm case
- Bracelet made of stainless steel
- Crystal sapphire
- Water resistance of 100 meters
- Analogue display with three hands
Ideal For
- Women’s daily attire
- Sporty-casual attire
- Wrists that are smaller
- Customers looking for a little stainless-steel watch
Advantages
- Small size of 36 mm
- Crystal sapphire
- Water resistance of 100M
- Bracelet made of stainless steel
Drawbacks
- A more athletic look
- Certain variations may come close to exceeding the $500 budget.
7. Bulova Classic Sutton – Women’s Classic Style
Sutton quartz versions that emphasise traditional style are part of Bulova’s current women’s Classic range.
There are now a number of Sutton models in the collection that cost less than $500. Depending on the model, U.S. listings show costs that range from about the mid-$200s to less than $400.
Ideal For
- Workplace attire
- Dressier attire
- Women’s watches for daily use
- Customers who favour traditional design
- Things to Look for Before Purchasing
Since Sutton is a collection rather than a single specification, look for the following in each model:
- Dimensions of the case
- Material for straps
- Crystal
- Resistance to water
- Design of the dial
- The precise cost
- This is particularly crucial when contrasting several Sutton varieties.
8. Bulova Precisionist – High-Frequency Quartz
One of Bulova’s key differentiators is its Precisionist technology.
Precisionist timepieces include a smooth-looking seconds hand and a high-frequency quartz movement built around Bulova’s emphasis on accuracy.
But rather than being a single watch, Precisionist is a large collection. Models differ significantly in terms of case size, water resistance, crystal, and cost.
Always verify the precise reference number before comparing specifications for a transaction under $500.
Ideal For
High-frequency quartz buyers
Individuals that prefer quartz accuracy
Contemporary sports or fashion trends
Customers that prefer not to use a mechanical movement
Advantages
- Quartz technology with high frequencies
- Smooth, used appearance on models that fit
- Numerous designs
Drawbacks
- Model-specific specifications differ greatly.
- Many of the more recent Precisionist versions cost more than $500.
9. Bulova Icon Precisionist – Modern Sporty Design
Another Precisionist collection to be aware of is The Icon.
The Icon Precisionist model in Bulova’s current U.S. listings is priced at the upper end of this article’s budget, at about $495 during the current deal.
Compared to classic versions, the line is more contemporary and focused on sports.
Ideal For
- Contemporary design
- Sports-inspired daily attire
- Enthusiasts of precision
- Customers seeking a more substantial modern watch
Advantages
- Unique contemporary style
- Accurate movement technique
- Strong presence of the wrist
Drawbacks
- Certain Icon variations cost much more than $500.
- Smaller wrists could not fit larger designs.
Which Bulova Watch Fits Your Needs?
| If You Want… | Consider |
| Automatic sport watch | Marine Star 98B465 |
| Automatic dress style | Surveyor 98A338 |
| Blue-dial automatic | Surveyor 97A203 |
| Traditional office watch | Classic Wilton 96B390 |
| Large sporty quartz watch | Marine Star 96B382 |
| Compact women’s sport watch | Marine Star 96P248 |
| Women’s classic styling | Classic Sutton |
| High-frequency quartz | Precisionist |
| Modern Precisionist design | Icon Precisionist |
Match the watch to your preferred movement, case size, water resistance, and style rather than selecting one model as the best choice for everyone.
Best Bulova Watches for Men Under $500
Bulova offers a variety of options for men’s watches that fall within or near the $500 price range.
For Automatic Watches
The Surveyor 98A338 and Marine Star 98B465 are two distinct methods.
- Marine Star 98B465 → water and sports use
- Surveyor 98A338 → mechanical style and attire
For Classic Office Wear
With its dress-oriented dial and leather strap, the Classic Wilton 96B390 is more conventional.
For Sporty Quartz
A bigger 44mm case and 100M water resistance are features of the Marine Star 96B382.
Bulova offers a variety of options for men’s watches that fall within or near the $500 price range. For more models and detailed recommendations, see our guide to the best Bulova watches for men under $500 in the USA
Best Women’s Bulova Watches Under $500
Bulova offers dress-oriented, sporty, and classic timepieces in its women’s collections.
The Marine Star 96P248 is a small 36mm model with sapphire crystal and 100M water resistance.
With more conventional style and a number of quartz versions presently priced around $500, the Sutton line provides an alternative approach.
When selecting a women’s Bulova, pay attention to:
- Case diameter
- Case thickness
- Bracelet or strap
- Dial readability
- Water resistance
- Personal style
When determining how a watch will fit your wrist, case size is frequently more helpful than a straightforward men’s/women’s designation.
Bulova offers dress-oriented, sporty, and classic timepieces in its women’s collections. For more models and detailed recommendations, see our guide to the best Bulova watches for women under $500 in the USA
Quartz vs Automatic Bulova Watches
Quartz
In general, quartz is a sensible option if you wish to:
- Easy maintenance
- Consistent timekeeping
- Simple daily use
- Lower maintenance requirements
Models such as the Wilton and several Marine Star watches have quartz movements.
Automatic
Automatic watches employ a mechanical movement rather than a battery.
They can appeal to buyers who enjoy:
- Mechanical watchmaking
- Visible movement details
- Traditional watch construction
- The experience of wearing an automatic watch
The Marine Star 98B465 and Surveyor models are examples of Bulova automatic watches available around the $500 budget.
Precisionist
Using high-frequency quartz technology, Precisionist holds a distinct position in Bulova’s lineup.
Precisionist models might be worth comparing if quartz technology is more important to you than mechanical watchmaking.
How to Choose a Bulova Watch Under $500
1. Choose the Movement First
Ask yourself whether you want:
Quartz: simple and practical
Automatic: mechanical and traditional
Precisionist: high-frequency quartz technology
This decision can narrow your choices quickly.
2. Choose the Right Case Size
Bulova has everything from large sport watches to small women’s models.
For instance:
- 36mm → little size
- 39mm → balanced size for a dress
- 41mm → adaptable size
- 44mm → greater athletic presence
However, case diameter should not be the only measurement you take into account because lug-to-lug measurements and wrist shape also influence fit.
3. Check the Crystal
In all of its collections, Bulova employs sapphire and mineral crystals.
Sapphire
Stronger scratch resistance is provided by sapphire, which is especially helpful if you’re looking for a watch that can withstand daily wear.
Sapphire crystal is used in the Surveyor 98A338 and Marine Star 98B465.
Mineral
On less expensive models like the Classic Wilton 96B390, mineral crystal is frequently used.
For everyday use, it can still function effectively.
4. Check Water Resistance
Do not assume that every Bulova is suitable for swimming.
Examples from current models include:
| Water Resistance | Example |
| Splash resistant | Surveyor 98A338 |
| 30M | Classic Wilton 96B390 |
| 100M | Marine Star 96B382 |
| 100M | Marine Star 96P248 |
| 200M | Marine Star 98B465 |
Before submerging a particular model in water, always refer to its official specifications.
5. Think About Your Strap
Stainless Steel
Excellent for:
- Office
- Daily attire
- Sporty styles
- Long-term versatility
Leather
Excellent for:
- Business attire
- Dress for events
- Conventional fashion
Rubber / Polyurethane
Excellent for:
- Sports
- Use outdoors
- Activities centred around water
For instance, the Marine Star 98B465 has a 200M water-resistance certification along with a rubber strap.
Bulova vs Seiko vs Citizen Under $500
| Brand | What You May Find Under $500 |
| Bulova | Quartz, Precisionist, automatic and sport watches |
| Seiko | Automatic, quartz and solar watches |
| Citizen | Eco-Drive, quartz and sport watches |
| Orient | Automatic mechanical watches |
| Timex | Casual, field and everyday watches |
These companies take distinct approaches to the under-$500 market.
Are Bulova Watches Worth Considering Under $500?
For customers who prefer more options than a simple quartz watch, Bulova’s under-$500 collection may make sense.
Depending on the model, the budget can get you:
- Automatic movement
- Sapphire crystal
- 100M or 200M water resistance
- Stainless-steel construction
- Leather straps
- Precisionist quartz technology
- Sport and dress designs
Comparing the particular model is crucial because Bulova collections include timepieces with wildly disparate features and costs.
Where to Buy Bulova Watches in the USA
For consumers in the USA, think about buying from:
- Bulova’s official U.S. website
- Authorized watch retailers
- Established jewelry stores
- Reputable online marketplaces
- Watch Collections for You
When buying online, check:
- Exact model number
- Seller identity
- Warranty
- Return policy
- Water-resistance specification
- Whether the watch is new or pre-owned
Prices can vary between Bulova’s official website, authorized retailers, and marketplace sellers.
Bulova Watch Care Tips
You can maintain the health of your Bulova watch with a few easy behaviours.
- Follow the manufacturer’s water-resistance instructions.
- Avoid unnecessary impacts.
- Keep leather straps away from excessive moisture.
- Clean stainless-steel bracelets periodically.
- Replace worn straps when needed.
- Keep automatic watches properly wound according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Have quartz batteries replaced by an appropriate watch service professional.
- Keep your warranty and purchase documentation.
If the model calls for it, make sure the crown and case of water-resistant watches are securely fastened before exposure to water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bulova watches under $500 good for everyday wear?
The best option varies on the model, although a number of Bulova models are suitable for daily usage. While sportier Marine Star models offer greater water resistance, quartz types are typically simple to wear every day.
Is Bulova a luxury watch brand?
Rather than directly competing with upscale Swiss luxury brands, Bulova is typically positioned in the accessible-to-mid-range watch market. Its ranges include more costly automatic and Precisionist timepieces as well as more reasonably priced quartz timepieces.
Does Bulova make automatic watches under $500?
Yes. Automatic Surveyor versions and the Marine Star 98B465, which has a $495 list price but was displaying a cheaper special price when examined, are currently listed in the United States.
Which Bulova is best for office wear?
If a conventional office appearance is your top objective, you might want to look at a dress-oriented model like the Surveyor or Classic Wilton.
Which Bulova is suitable for water activities?
The particular model is important. While versions like the Surveyor are only meant for splash exposure, the Marine Star 98B465 has a 200-meter rating.
Are Bulova Precisionist watches automatic?
No. Bulova’s high-frequency quartz technology is called Precisionist. The brand’s automated mechanical watches are not like this.