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It’s not easy to choose between two of the most famous watch brands in America. When it comes to watches, there are two brands that I always consider. Bulova and Citizen both have a long history of making quality timepieces.
The question is, which one makes the best watch brand for you? To answer this question, I will give our expert and user opinion on what makes these watches so tremendous and some pros and cons and many features of each brand so you can decide for yourself!
So read along if you want to find out more about these fantastic watchmakers!
Bulova vs Citizen: Which one is Better for you?
The brands of watches from these two well-known companies, Bulova and Citizen, respectively, have a long history.
They both offer high-quality products with sophisticated designs that are appreciated by their customers who can purchase them at an affordable price point thanks to this relationship between the two firms.
They became subsidiary companies within each other’s corporate structure in 2008, which connects some dots but doesn’t explain everything about similarities such as appearance or policies.
Sure, we all want to know which watch is better. But why? The truth of the matter and the only way for people interested in watches like this should be able to choose between two brands based on.
What do they need from their timepiece instead of just picking one because that’s “what everyone else has.” With those thoughts running through your mind when considering buying either a citizen or Bulova (or any other), make sure you consider everything before making such an important decision!
This is a difficult choice, but we’re going to make it easier for you by breaking down the differences in more detail. Bearing with us as we comb through these characteristics and see which brand best suits your needs?
The Best Bulova and Citizen Watches
Image | Brand | Title | Buy |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Bulova | Star 98B301 Marine Watch | Check Price |
![]() | Bulova | 96B158 Precisionist Leather Strap Watch | Check Price |
![]() | Citizen | Citizen Diver BN0151-09L Promaster Watch | Check Price |
![]() | Citizen | Best Citizen Avion Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch | Check Price |
History of Citizen and Bulova Watches
Citizen and Bulova watches are two of the best-known brands in watchmaking. Citizen is a Japanese company founded in 1918, while Bulova is an American brand established in 1875.
Both companies produce quality timepieces with prices ranging from high to low for different budgets. The history of these two brands offers excellent insight into the world of watchmaking, as well as some interesting trivia about how they got their names!
The beginning is where it all begins. Both the brands and their accomplishments over time are contrasted, but this won’t be your primary factor for consideration when making a decision, so don’t worry too much!
Brief History of Citizen
In 1875, a Bohemian immigrant named Joseph Bulova started his company in New York City. He made intelligent marketing decisions such as radio and TV commercials which helped him achieve remarkable success.
When people were still using watches mainly for telling the time instead of keeping track of the date or other vital information like they do today with smartphones and fitness trackers.
After many years under different ownership (including General Motors), The American brand enjoyed another successful chapter by introducing what would be known forever after simply “the Accutron.”
With one significant achievement under its belt – creating an electronic watch powered solely through batteries rather than relying heavily upon any clockwork mechanisms-, this technological innovation became famous all across America.
The accuracy of a watch is essential to many people, and in 2010 Bulova introduced their new Precisionist line with three-prong quartz crystals. These watches are accurate up to 10 times more than typical quartz-driven timepieces!
Bulova is well known for their “Moon watch” when an American astronaut wore one during the 1972 excursion. The timepiece has since become a bestseller among other watches from this manufacturer, not to mention it’s also significant because of its link with NASA and space exploration!
Brief History of Bulova

The history of Bulova is full of exciting moments. The first milestone in this story was when they began their operations as a jewelry shop, which led them to produce watches for other brands like Elgin and Waltham before it became known simply by its current name -Bulova-in 1923 during the Wall Street Crash.
It wasn’t until 1979 that we saw any entries into new product lines with automatic movements using quartz crystals just four years after launching America’s very own Space Shuttle flight!
For many watch enthusiasts, the Bulova is known as a horological accomplishment and an American astronaut’s timepiece during one of his excursions in 1971.
The reproduction model currently houses some of their bestsellers, and collectors alike will want to add it to their collection!
In the early 1950s, as America entered World War II with a vengeance and began to develop atomic weapons of mass destruction for use against innocents around the world via Hiroshima- Nagasaki combined blast, Bulova shifted its focus from civilian timepieces.
When WWll ended, there was an urgent need for military watches which could withstand high levels of risky radiation exposure but also provide accurate readings on their wristwatch devices that were capable enough not only to survive such harsh conditions.
But function correctly even inside tanks during combat situations where they’re being bombarded daily by enemy fire without any disruption whatsoever thanks largely due to this innovative technology developed at NASA.
If you’ve been looking for a watch to buy but can’t afford anything too expensive or not well-known yet still want an excellent quality timepiece that will last your wear and tear throughout the years.
Bulova mid-range watches are usually among those names for making good value products with superior craftsmanship at affordable prices.
Design and Style of the Citizen and Bulova Watches
The design and style of these watches are sure to catch anyone’s attention. The Citizen watch has a sleek design that will impress.
While the Bulova watch has a sporty look with an orange rubber band. They both have in common their simplicity, which would make them perfect for anyone looking for a stylish accessory.
Design of Citizen

If you’re looking for a watch that is more than just an accessory, then Citizen’s line of watches with attractive designs and bold colors should be at the top of your list. With dozens in each style (dive or military-inspired), there is something here perfect for every taste!
For centuries, Citizen has been helping people to tell time. Unlike other companies that use numbers for their watches’ displays (like Bulova).
They categorize them into three broad groups: land-oriented or military-style with features like stopwatches; sea-oriented Dive/Explorer type models, which are waterproof up to 50 meters deep and come equipped with decompression tables.
In case you won’t make an ascent back above water after diving down too far beneath it, and finally Air Force Aviator Watch Series.
Thus, when comparing the appearance of Citizen vs. Bulova, it is clear that while both brands produce watches in different styles with casual attires on their minds but some aspects set them apart from one another.
Such as style and appeal for the wearer who prefers more elegant or dressy looks depending upon what you’re going out into town wearing!
Design of Bulova

Bulova has a product line that includes watches for professional men and women. These timepieces tend to stay more formal and elegant, with delicate dials paired well with metal bracelets or other accessories such as chains of various kinds worn around one’s wrist.
In recent years, the best skeleton watches have been limited to high-end brands. But that’s not true when you consider what’s available from brands like Bulova!
There are several automatic models in their line-up, and they’re affordable too – which means this great company can offer a lot for your buck if the quality is essential to you.
When one part of the watch represents a more formal and stylish side, another is sportier. The Bulova line has top-notch functions such as a chronograph that can come in handy when trying out for your favorite team or taking on some water-heavy activities like scuba diving.
Plus they’re built tough enough so you don’t need to worry about breaking them during those times when the spontaneous adventure might happen (you know there’s always something going down).
However, despite all this extraordinary value put into each piece by skilled craftsmen who have been crafting these pieces since 1901, we find ourselves unable to call any “casual” sports watch because even though everyone knows timepieces must exude class.
Performance of Bulova
The Bulova Performance Marine Star Chronograph Men’s Watch is a top-of-the-line luxury watch that will keep time and look good doing it.
This black dial-faced, blue accent, and silicone strap model have all of the bells and whistles you could ask for in your next wristwatch: Luminescent hands; matching stainless steel links bracelet with a Push-button deployment clasp closure system (PBDCS) – perfect if safety isn’t an issue!
The new features on this high-end piece include extra goodies like luminescent markers at various intervals along each hour track and luminous fill Maxi Markers around midnight, which can be read easily no matter what angle one views them from or brightness setting.
Performance of Citizen
Citizen watches are known for their durability and quality. This watch features a perpetual calendar, 10 bar water resistance, chronograph function with 50 lap memory recall, and Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping technology which keeps it accurate to within seconds per year.
It also has an adjustable bracelet made of stainless steel, so it can fit anyone’s wrist perfectly, no matter what size it may be.
The face is sleek black with luminous hands, allowing you to see the time in dark places or when there isn’t much light out. Citizen watches have been around since 1930, making them over 85 years old!
Citizen vs Bulova Quality
It is essential to consider the quality of your roof when deciding what type you need. You should make sure that both tops are up-to-par with each other and will last for years without requiring maintenance or repairs to get maximum value out of the investment made on them!
Materials of Watch
The watches of both brands are made with stainless steel. The most common material in this type of watch, it’s no surprise why they prefer to use it over any other option.
Stainless can stand temperature changes better than any other metal or composite, meaning that if your wrist gets too warm during summertime, then you won’t end up dropping the timepiece on its face from sweating!
To most people, titanium is a luxurious and expensive metal. However, for those who can afford it, titanium watches are durable enough to last multiple times over with their lightweight making them an attractive option in comparison to stainless steel timepieces that cost less but may not hold up as well against daily use or damage from water exposure such as swimming pools etcetera.
Watchmakers have used titanium primarily because of its ability to withstand extreme conditions like high temperatures without any change at all.
In contrast, other more common metals might bend outwards from being too hot before cooling down again – this happened most notoriously when old Omega Speed master models were found using aluminum.
A common practice in the industry is to use sapphire crystals. This material offers enhanced resistance against scratching and breaking.
Making it perfect for watches with delicate mechanisms like stopwatches or calculators that might otherwise be subject to malfunctions if their owners often come into contact with them while wearing thick gloves.
Movement of the Watch
The most significant difference between Citizen and Bulova is the type of movement that powers their watches. While both brands equip most models with solar-powered quartz, for some reason or another, one has automatic movements while others are powered by battery life alone.
Citizen Eco-Drive watches are equipped with Miyota movements, which have been produced exclusively for citizens.
This means they’re among the best workhorse timepieces available on today’s market and don’t let you down very often – even if only slightly so!
The standard quartz pieces from Bulova also use this same reliable Japanese manufacturing process but miss out on solar power as an option, instead opting to rely more heavily on than before inaccuracy when it comes to providing ultimate precision throughout each model line.
Citizen Eco-Drive
The Eco-Drive is the most appreciated light-powered innovation in this world. It can hold a charge for up to six months without being exposed to any artificial light source when fully charged.
It’s also noteworthy that timekeeping is based on quartz crystals which are traditionally more accurate than automatic watches with calendars because they only have +/-15 seconds monthly average precision.
In contrast, your typical auto watch has an accuracy ranging between 10 minutes per month (wristwatch) or 30+ yards/meters off-target, depending on where you live (military combatant).
Citizen’s Eco-Drive line is specifically designed to be powered by light, and it guarantees extreme reliability with its most extended power reserve. This means that if you’re looking for a high-quality watch in this category, then Citizen will not disappoint!
Their top solar watches offer some additional features such as accurate timekeeping regardless of where they are or how much sun there is at any given moment, thanks to their efficient use of energy sources like external rooftop panels (which people often install themselves).
Bulova Precisionist
Precisionist technology is long desired by watch lovers worldwide for its accuracy and visual enhancement through an ultra-high frequency three-pronged quartz crystal that vibrates at a pace of 262 kHz.
The latest model injects innovative features into their classic designs with modernity in mind while retaining allure from generations before them.
From fundamental high frequencies to UHF watches popularized during NASA’s Gemini program, Of course, when dealing with precision instruments, there is no time too early or late.
Comparing Bulova with Citizen Watches
Now that we’ve discussed both businesses’ historical accomplishments as well as their general styles and characteristics across time, let’s look at their current styles and qualities.
It’s an appropriate moment to juxtapose Citizen watches with Bulova. The two brands have been around for quite some time, and it’s interesting to see how they have evolved.
Bulova Vs Citizen Dive Watches
Bulova Star 98B301 Marine Watch

The Bulova Marine Star 98B301 is an excellent choice for those who want to take their diving hobbies seriously, but not so deep.
It typically comes with water resistance of 100-200 meters (330-660 ft.) and features decent luminosity as well as an easy rotation bezel control on its face.
The Bulova Marine Star 98B301 is a decent watch for shallow diving. It features excellent lame and has an attractive rotating bezel which makes it stand out from other similar models today.
The price of this particular model won’t leave you broke if your budget was tight before, but now might seem like a good time since deals are abounding!
Citizen Diver BN0151-09L Promaster Watch

The Promaster Diver BN0151-09L is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to go diving. This tool watch comes with all the features you need, like its luminosity in hand and markers, as well as a unidirectional bezel that can withstand pressure from deep waters when underwater – something only a few watches are capable of doing!
Not only does this model look good on your wrist, but it also stays true when it comes down to timekeeping accuracy thanks to carefree Eco-Drive technology, which never needs any attention or maintenance other than charging once per week (and there’s no such thing as bad weather because everything works best underwater).
This watch is both elegant and functional, making it the perfect everyday accessory.
Bulova 96B158 Precisionist Leather Strap Watch

The Precisionist watch is one of the most accurate watches in circulation. It incorporates a variation on the Japanese Quartz movement, which maintains its reliability due to how precise it can be within seconds per year – this aspect makes it an appealing timepiece for those who value accuracy over anything else!
The Bulova Precisionist has an air of complexity and mystery that it brings to the table. The black dial is beautifully crafted with gray patterns, while silver hands make for a pop in comparison; all this combines, complementing one another perfectly!
It’s not only about excellent performance, though, because its design incorporates both classic aesthetics as well contemporary ones, making it stand out among other watches like these on today’s market – if you’re looking for something different, then look no further than our Featured Product: The BULOVA PRECISIONIST!!!
Best Citizen Avion Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch

The Citizen Avion Eco-Drive is a high-quality, well-designed timepiece that will surely please collectors. With its vintage aviation style and being made by Citizen, it’s no surprise this watch has top-of-the-line performance too!
The Avion is a stylish, high-quality men’s watch with an elegant 45mm stainless steel case and lux leather strap. The stationary bezel features the day/date function display at midnight, which can also be seen in low light thanks to its luminous hands & digits!
The Avion watch is a high-quality, durable timepiece that can be used for business and casual occasions. Though it has traditional design features making it an excellent choice whether you’re going out or staying in with friends at home!
The mineral crystal protects the dial from any damage due to water pressure while also protecting its sensitive parts inside – including your battery life so expect this beautiful accessory to come a long way too long before needing another one.
Which Brand Is Better Bulova or Citizen?
Looking at your watch preferences might help you decide which of the two brands, Bulova or Citizen, is best.
In terms of prices, both brands offer high-quality products with excellent customer service that will make your purchase worth it in the end!
If you want to take your watch off without the hassle of changing batteries, go with Citizen. They also make watches for other needs like atomic precision or specialized tool-watches such as dive wristwear; whichever suits your fancy will be available at a price that won’t break the bank!
Though Citizen watches have been around for a long time, they are not as elegant or fancy compared to their competitors.
The quartz movements of these clocks contrast with the open heart designs found on most models from Bulova and other brands such as Rolex – which can be either appealing or undesirable depending upon your taste!
In this paragraph, we’ve outlined the most important variables to consider when deciding between these two brands.
Why Are Citizen Watches Better?
- More relaxed aesthetics
- Convenient and environmentally friendly Solar technology with Eco-Drive
- Atomic time is used in a variety of clocks.
- Professional diving wristwear with ISO certification
- All watches come with a 5-year worldwide guarantee.
Why Are Bulova Watches Better?
- Elegant aesthetics
- Improved automated movement selection
- Quartzes with high precision at a reasonable price
- The function of a 1/1000 chronograph
- Sweeping the Precisionist line with the second hand.
Buying Guide – Citizen vs Bulova Watches
In 1976, a company called Citizen Invented Eco-Drive Technology. This innovative power source means that watches no longer need regular winding or batteries!
Eco-Drive technology is a way to generate power from any light source, including artificial lights and even dim ones. This would mean that you could wear your watch without ever having batteries replaced!
The first time I saw a solar-powered watch, it felt like science fiction. How would this work? But as soon as you hold one in your hands and feel its weight – there’s no doubt about what is real anymore!
The best part of these watches for me has been seeing them come alive with movement after just one day without charge from my phone or laptop–it’s such an innovative idea to be able to go anywhere without worrying if we’ll have access to electricity. Again anytime soon…
One of the best features of a Citizen watch is that it does not need to be charged. This means you can wear your timepiece on continuous and worry-free outings without having any pesky cables getting in between or distracting from what matters most – staying connected with those who matter most!
FAQs – Citizen vs Bulova
Are Bulova watches waterproof?
The answer is yes, but not all models. Typically, the higher end of their line-up will be water-resistant, and some lower-end models may not be as much.
How do I identify my Bulova watch?
One of the easiest ways to find out if you have a Bulova watch is by looking for an inscription on the back. If there are no inscriptions or markings, it can be challenging to identify your specific type of watch. The most common types of Bulova watches are Accutron, Precisionist, and Marine Star.
Do Bulova watches use batteries?
Yes, but you can also wind up the watch to get it going. This is an excellent option for people who don’t like to wear watches with batteries because they always run out of power at the worst times and need to be replaced.
Are Bulova watches natural diamonds?
Most people think that the diamonds on Bulova watches are natural, but they’re not. They’re just cubic zirconia, and yet they still look beautiful.
The purpose of this article is to inform you about these beautiful watches and all their features so that you can decide whether or not it’s something worth investing in.
Conclusion – Bulova vs Citizen which is better
If you are looking for a highly affordable yet high-quality timepiece, then look at the watches from both Citizen and Bulova.
The choice between these two brands will depend largely on your individual needs and preference; however, there is no doubt that either one can suit any need within this spectrum!
The Bulova watch is big, flashy, and accurate, while Citizen has more laid back. However, it’s not about which brand you prefer but rather which one makes your heart beat faster with joy!
The best watches are those that we enjoy wearing on our wrist because there isn’t a problem of preferring one over the other.
At some point, everyone will have their preference- whether it’s for style or functionality, depending on what they’re looking forward to.