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If you’re looking for a stylish, reliable watch but find yourself torn between Bulova and Movado, you’ve come to the right place! Both brands are iconic in blending fashion and function—but they are not twins. Below, we’ll explore everything from brand history to unique features, helping you find the perfect choice.
What are Bulova and Movado?
Bulova’s Origin and Legacy
- Founded: 1875 by Joseph Bulova in New York City.
- Reputation: Known for innovation and precision, Bulova boasts a remarkable history, including the Accutron tuning fork watch, which revolutionized watch accuracy in the 1960s.
- Notable Achievements: Bulova contributed to NASA’s space missions, proving they are no strangers to breaking boundaries.
Movado’s History and Reputation
- Founded: 1881 by Achilles Ditesheim in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
- Famous For: The museum dial, a design so iconic that it has been displayed at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Movado’s minimalist style features clean lines and a single dot at 12 o’clock.
- Notable Achievements: Strong Swiss heritage has earned Movado recognition among watch enthusiasts worldwide.
Bulova vs Movado: Which Watch is Better?
Bulova’s Style
Bulova tends to offer a wider range of designs—from classic dress watches with Roman numerals to bold, futuristic styles featuring open or skeleton dials. If you appreciate variety or eye-catching details, Bulova might be the choice for you. You’ll also notice an emphasis on precision—certain models have a sweeping second hand that’s almost mesmerizing.
Movado’s Look
Movado is best known for its minimalist style. Their iconic museum dial contains no numbers, just a smooth dot representing the midday sun. If you’re a fan of understated elegance, this contemporary look pairs well with formal wear, business attire, or even street style. Movado is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a refined, understated wrist style.
Movement Types
Both brands offer quartz (battery-powered) and automatic (self-winding) watches. Bulova is famous for its Precisionist movement, known for exceptional accuracy, while Movado frequently utilizes Swiss quartz or Swiss automatic movements—both are strong competitors in reliability.
Materials and Durability
- Crystal Types: Bulova uses mineral and sapphire crystals across various collections, while Movado predominantly employs sapphire for scratch resistance—though this can vary by model.
- Case Materials: Stainless steel is the most common, but you’ll also find PVD coatings or gold plating in the high-end lines of both brands.
Special Collections
- Bulova: Curv (the world’s first curved chronograph movement), Marine Star (dive-inspired), Precisionist (ultimate precision).
- Movado: Bold (modern, youthful vibe), SE (high-end stainless steel design), Heritage series (classic Swiss style).
Price Range and Value for Money
Bulova Pricing
- Generally more accessible, ranging from entry-level to mid-tier.
- Well-crafted Bulova watches can be found from a few hundred dollars up to four figures, depending on materials and features.
Movado Pricing
- Typically falls into the mid to high-end watch range.
- Expect to spend from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, with some limited editions priced even higher.
Which Offers Better Value: Bulova or Movado?
If budget is a significant factor, Bulova may be the go-to choice. However, Movado’s Swiss heritage and minimalist aesthetic attract those seeking iconic design.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
- Bulova Fans: They love the brand’s affordability and wide selection—especially the Precisionist series, praised for its accuracy.
- Movado Enthusiasts: Often rave about the brand’s timeless design, comfort on the wrist, and stylish appearance that can instantly elevate your look.
A common critique of Movado is that some find the dials too minimalist, making them hard to read at a glance. Conversely, if you prefer minimalist aesthetics, some Bulova designs may seem overly ornate.
Top Bulova vs Movado Model Comparison
Brand | Model | Movement | Case Diameter | Case Thickness | Water Resistance | Material | Price Range |
Bulova | Precisionist | Quartz (High Frequency) | 44 – 46 mm | ~14 – 15 mm | 30m (subject to testing) | Stainless Steel | $400 – $800+ |
Bulova | Marine Star | Automatic/Quartz | 42 – 43 mm | ~11 – 13 mm | 100m | Stainless Steel/PVD | $300 – $600+ |
Bulova | Curv | Quartz (Curved) | 44 mm (approx.) | ~10.1 mm | 30m | Stainless Steel | $600 – $900+ |
Movado | Master Classic | Swiss Quartz | 38 – 40 mm | ~8 – 9 mm | 30m | Stainless Steel | $350 – $1200+ |
Movado | Bold | Swiss Quartz | 36 – 42 mm | ~7 – 9 mm | 30m | Stainless Steel/PVD | $600 – $800+ |
Movado | SE | Swiss Automatic | 40 – 42 mm | ~9 – 10 mm | 50m | Stainless Steel | $1000 – $2000+ |
Note: Actual measurements may vary by specific reference number. Please confirm with official listings. For more details, visit Bulova or Movado’s official websites.
Quick Overview
- Bulova Precisionist: Known for its high-frequency quartz movement. The second hand flows smoothly.
- Marine Star: Popular for its sporty appearance. Available in quartz and automatic versions.
- Curv: Renowned for its curved movement design. Ergonomically fits on the wrist.
- Movado Museum Classic: Iconic minimalist style. Features a single dot at 12 o’clock.
- Movado Bold: A modern take on the museum dial, usually in brighter colors.
- Movado SE: A touch of luxury with a slightly higher price point.
Maintenance and Care
Automatic Watch Maintenance
For either brand’s automatic models:
- Consider using a watch winder to maintain power reserve.
- Regular maintenance every 3-5 years is recommended.
- Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
General Maintenance
- Both brands require similar basic care.
- Annual water resistance testing is advisable.
- Quartz watch batteries typically need replacement every 1-2 years.
Why Watch Winders are Important?
A watch winder keeps automatic watches running, even when you’re not wearing them. This means you won’t have to constantly reset the time or date. A watch winder gently rotates your watch, maintaining its accuracy and prolonging its lifespan. It also prevents the lubricants in the watch from drying out. If you have multiple automatic watches, a winder can save you time—just place your watch inside, and it’s ready to wear whenever you are.
Making the Final Choice
Bulova Might Be Your Best Choice If:
- You want a wider variety of designs—from modern to ultra-classic.
- You appreciate technological innovations like the Precisionist movement.
- You prefer a broader price range with options for nearly any budget.
Movado Might Be Your Best Choice If:
- You are drawn to minimalist, modern aesthetics that pair perfectly with formal attire.
- You desire Swiss heritage and the prestige that comes with it.
- You love the iconic museum dial—it’s a piece of watch history on your wrist.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the comparison between Bulova and Movado comes down to personal style, budget, and your appreciation for design—do you prefer Bulova’s bold styles or Movado’s timeless minimalism? If you opt for an automatic model, don’t forget to consider adding a watch winder to keep your new timepiece in optimal condition.
Ready to Choose?
Check out the latest Bulova and Movado collections online or at your local watch boutique. If possible, compare a few models in person—this is often the best way to discover which watch truly fits your wrist. If you do choose an automatic model, pair it with a quality MOZSLY Watch Winder for easy access. Happy watch shopping!
FAQ about Bulova vs Movado
- Which brand is more affordable?
Many Bulova models are priced lower than comparable Movado products. Bulova ranges from $200 to $300, while Movado’s entry-level pieces typically start around $350 to $400. Some high-end models exceed $2,000. Be sure to check official price lists or your favorite retailers. - Which brand has a higher resale value?
Resale value can vary. Movado’s strong brand recognition can help. Bulova’s limited edition models also tend to hold their value well. Condition and demand impact resale more than the brand itself. - Do these brands require winders?
Only if you purchase an automatic watch. A winder keeps the watch wound when not worn, reducing the hassle of resetting. It also maintains consistent lubrication. Check out our watch winder selection for options. - Are there any historical highlights?
Yes. Bulova developed the famous Accutron in the 1960s. Movado’s Museum Dial is recognized by the Museum of Modern Art in New York. You can read more on Wikipedia or MoMA.org. - How can I verify authenticity when buying online?
Check seller reviews. Look for official certificates or serial numbers. If possible, verify with the brand. Trusted sites like Amazon (with verified sellers) or authorized dealers are safer options.
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