Invicta vs. Bulova: Which One’s the Best Option for Mechanical Watches?

When it comes to buying a mechanical watch, there are a lot of options out there, and it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. If you’re on the hunt for a timepiece that has solid craftsmanship without draining your bank account, brands like Invicta and Bulova are popular choices. Both offer a good mix of style, performance, and affordability, making them great options for anyone who’s just starting to explore the world of mechanical watches. But how do you decide which one is the best for you? Do you go for Invicta’s bold, budget-friendly designs or Bulova’s mix of timeless elegance and precision?

In this post, we’re going to take a deeper look at both brands to help you make a more informed decision. We’ll break down what sets Invicta and Bulova apart, their standout mechanical watches, and which brand offers the best value for your money. Whether you’re new to mechanical watches or just looking to add a reliable piece to your collection, by the end, you’ll know which brand suits you best.

What Makes a Mechanical Watch Special?

Invicta Watches

A brand with a rich history, plus one-of-a-kind models that are growing in popularity day by day. 

A Quick Look at Invicta’s History

Invicta’s journey started all the way back in 1837 in Switzerland when it was founded by Raphael Picard. The brand initially made fine Swiss watches aimed at the elite. However, things took a turn in the 1990s when Invicta changed hands and shifted its focus. Under new ownership, Invicta became known for producing large, eye-catching watches at prices that wouldn’t break the bank. They became famous for their bold, in-your-face designs, which helped the brand build a loyal following over the years.

These days, Invicta is all about big, flashy designs and offering affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a timepiece that makes a statement or simply want a reliable mechanical watch without spending a fortune, Invicta has something for everyone.

Invicta’s Mechanical Watch Lineup

Invicta’s mechanical watches are well-known for their striking designs and budget-friendly pricing. Here’s what you can expect when you choose an Invicta timepiece:

Design and Looks

Invicta is all about boldness. Their watches often feature large, stainless steel cases with intricate engravings and bright colours that make them stand out. If you love big, attention-grabbing watches, Invicta definitely delivers. But, if you’re after something subtle or understated, Invicta may not be your go-to brand.

Movements

Invicta uses a combination of Swiss and Japanese mechanical movements in its watches. For the more affordable models, they use Seiko’s NH35 movement, which is known for being accurate and durable. Higher-end models come with Swiss ETA movements, which are typically a bit more refined. While these movements aren’t quite on the same level as those found in luxury watches, they’re certainly reliable and great value for the price. 

Affordability

One of the biggest selling points of Invicta is its pricing. You can pick up many of their mechanical watches for as low as $50 to $150, which is incredibly affordable for a mechanical watch. While they might not have the same level of craftsmanship as some pricier brands, you’re still getting a functional and stylish timepiece at an unbeatable price.

Durability and Water Resistance

Invicta watches are built to withstand everyday wear and tear. Many of their mechanical models offer water resistance of up to 200 meters, so they’re good for swimming and even light diving. They might not be as rugged as top-tier dive watches, but they’re certainly up to the task for most everyday situations.

Quality Control and Customer Perception

While Invicta offers great value, some customers have raised concerns about quality control. Issues can sometimes pop up with the finish of the watch or minor defects in the movement or assembly. Thankfully, Invicta provides warranties and solid customer support, so if you encounter any problems, they’re usually quick to resolve them.

Why Choose Invicta?

Invicta is a great choice if you love big, bold designs and want a mechanical watch that won’t break the bank. Their watches offer decent mechanical movements for a fraction of the price of luxury brands. If you want a watch that makes a statement, Invicta is worth considering. However, if you’re after something more classic or refined, you might want to check out other options.

Bulova Watches

Bulova is a well-known name standing on the precipice of horological history in 2025. 

A Quick Look at Bulova’s History

Founded in 1875 in New York, Bulova is one of the oldest and most respected names in the watchmaking industry. Known for its precision and innovation, the brand made history in 1960 by introducing the first fully electronic watch. While Bulova is best known for its quartz watches, it also offers an impressive selection of mechanical timepieces. The brand has stayed true to its roots of craftsmanship while also embracing modern innovations.

Bulova has built a strong reputation for quality and precision, making it a favourite among watch enthusiasts. Their watches offer a mix of classic designs and advanced technology, making them a great option for anyone looking for style, reliability, and a touch of history.

Bulova’s Mechanical Watch Collection

Bulova’s mechanical watches are usually more refined than Invicta’s, with a focus on traditional designs that appeal to both collectors and casual wearers. Here’s a closer look at what Bulova has to offer:

Design and Aesthetics

Bulova’s mechanical watches have a timeless appeal. They usually feature clean dials, traditional markers, and subtle, elegant details. The brand is known for its attention to detail, using premium materials and finishes to create high-quality timepieces. Whether you’re after a dress watch or a sportier chronograph, Bulova’s watches are generally more understated than Invicta’s.

Movements

Bulova uses a mix of high-quality mechanical movements, including Swiss-made ETA movements and their own in-house calibers. These movements are known for their reliability and smooth operation, and many of their automatic watches feature hand-winding and hacking (stopping the second hand for precise time-setting). These movements give Bulova watches an edge in terms of accuracy and overall craftsmanship.

Affordability

Bulova’s mechanical watches are priced higher than Invicta’s, typically ranging from $150 to $500. While they cost a bit more, the added price comes with superior craftsmanship, better movement quality, and refined design. If you’re willing to invest a little extra, Bulova offers great value in the affordable luxury category.

Durability and Water Resistance

Bulova’s mechanical watches usually offer water resistance from 30 meters to 100 meters, depending on the model. While they’re not designed for deep dives, these watches can handle daily wear and the occasional splash of water, making them ideal for everyday use.

Craftsmanship and Perception

Bulova is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, and enthusiasts often praise the brand for its precision and attention to detail. The materials used in their mechanical watches are top-notch, and the overall build quality is excellent. Bulova’s reputation for craftsmanship, combined with their modern designs and classic aesthetics, make them a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish mechanical watch.

Why Choose Bulova?

If you’re after a watch with a more classic design and superior craftsmanship, Bulova is a great choice. Their mechanical watches offer great value, especially considering the quality of the movements and the brand’s solid reputation for precision. If you want a timepiece that’s elegant and refined, Bulova is definitely worth considering.

Invicta vs. Bulova: Which Offers Better Value?

Now that we’ve looked at both brands, let’s compare them side by side in some key categories:

Design

• Invicta: Bold, oversized designs that make a statement.
  

• Bulova: Classic, refined aesthetics with attention to detail.

Movements

• Invicta: Japanese Seiko NH35 or Swiss ETA movements.
  

• Bulova: Swiss-made ETA movements or in-house calibers, often with hand-winding and hacking features.

Affordability

• Invicta: Affordable, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $150.
  

• Bulova: More expensive, with mechanical models ranging from $150 to $500.

Craftsmanship and Durability

• Invicta: Good value for the price but may lack the refinement of more expensive brands.
  

• Bulova: Known for high-quality craftsmanship and durable materials.

Final Thoughts

Both Invicta and Bulova offer great value in their respective price ranges. Invicta is perfect for those on a budget who want a bold, oversized watch with a decent mechanical movement. Bulova, on the other hand, is ideal if you’re after a more refined, classic design with superior craftsmanship. It really depends on what you're looking for in a watch. Whether you choose Invicta’s statement pieces or Bulova’s timeless elegance, you can’t go wrong with either brand.

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