Bulova Marine Star Automatic Open Heart Ref. 98A227
Dive Watch (Open Heart / Semi-Skeleton Sports Subcategory) · Bulova (Owned by Citizen Watch Co.), positioned in the accessible luxury and mid-range market, renowned for American heritage mixed with Japanese manufacturing backing.
Period: Modern Luxury / Contemporary Sport (2010s-Present)
Type
Dive Watch (Open Heart / Semi-Skeleton Sports Subcategory)
Brand
Bulova (Owned by Citizen Watch Co.), positioned in the accessible luxury and mid-range market, renowned for American heritage mixed with Japanese manufacturing backing.
Movement
Mechanical automatic self-winding movement with an open heart complication, running at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) with 21 jewels.
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 45mm, thickness around 13.5mm, lug-to-lug approximately 52mm, lug width 24mm.
Description
The Bulova Marine Star Automatic Open Heart is a bold and striking sports timepiece designed for enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical transparency. Combining robust nautical styling with a prominent 45mm case, a porthole-inspired bezel with exposed screws, and a captivating open-heart dial cutout, it bridges the gap between traditional tool watch aesthetics and modern dress-casual flair. The textured black dial paired with polished Roman numerals and vibrant orange accents creates a high-contrast look with strong wrist presence.
Key Features
Distinguished by its open-heart aperture at 7 o'clock displaying the oscillating balance wheel, the six screw-head bezel design, a 24-hour sub-dial complication, and the signature Bulova tuning fork logo at 12 o'clock.
Dial Description
Textured black dial featuring a striped center pattern, large applied silver-tone Roman numeral hour markers, luminous sword hands, a visible open-heart window at the 7 o'clock position revealing the balance wheel, and a 24-hour sub-dial at the 5 o'clock position.
Case Material
Stainless steel with a prominent black-plated top bezel ring and a combination of polished and brushed finishing.
Crystal Type
Flat mineral crystal with clear visibility and standard scratch resistance.
Bezel Details
Fixed round bezel featuring a black insert secured by six decorative exposed screw heads, giving it a porthole-inspired nautical aesthetic.
Crown & Pushers
Signed screw-down crown located at the 3 o'clock position, protected by integrated case shoulders.
Bracelet or Strap
Integrated blue and black rubber strap with a signed stainless steel pin buckle, designed for durable everyday wear and water resistance.
Caseback Details
Exhibition screw-down case back with a glass window showcasing the mechanical automatic movement, surrounded by standard model specifications and branding engravings.
Movement Type
Mechanical automatic self-winding movement with an open heart complication, running at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) with 21 jewels.
Water Resistance
Rated to 200 meters (20 ATM / 660 feet), suitable for swimming, recreational scuba diving, and water sports, though not certified for professional saturation diving.
Origin & Provenance
American brand design with Japanese movement and global manufacturing assembly.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-present production run based on contemporary Bulova design languages.
Cultural Significance
Represents the popularization of mechanical watch features like open-heart displays to entry-level and mid-range buyers, making horological mechanics accessible and visually engaging to a wider audience.
Condition Notes
The watch appears to be in very good used condition, showing minor surface scuffs on the polished steel case and bezel edge consistent with active outdoor wear, while the crystal and dial remain clean and fully functional.
Value Estimate
Secondary market and retail value generally ranges between $250 and $450 USD depending on overall condition, with box and papers adding minor premium.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended general service intervals every 3 to 5 years to ensure lubrication and timekeeping accuracy. Wash the rubber strap regularly with mild soap and warm water, and have pressure seals tested annually if used regularly around water.
Similar Watches
Citizen Promaster Mechanical Diver, Seiko 5 Sports Automatic, and Invicta Pro Diver Open Heart models, all offering accessible automatic movements with varying degrees of sporty water-resistant styling.
Interesting Facts
The Marine Star collection has been a staple of Bulova's aquatic-inspired lineup for decades, evolving from traditional skin divers into modern luxury-sport hybrids featuring high-visibility dials and unique complications.