$500 Vs. $5000 Moonwatch Chronograph | Omega Speedmaster Vs. Bulova Lunar Pilot

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Often compared to one another, these 2 popular Chronograph Moonwatch models from Omega and Bulova have a lot in common - but the price isn't one of them. With the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch coming in at over $5000 and the Bulova Lunar Pilot less than $500, the question is can the Omega Speedmaster justify a price 10x higher than the Bulova Lunar Pilot?
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Thanks for watching!
#Omega #Bulova #Moonwatch

[@JustBlueFish]

Join the JustBlueFish Watch Club Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/JBFWC/

[@TelstarFirst]

As an owner of the Bulova I would like to point out a few things. Firstly no mention of the Bulova's sapphire crystal versus hesalite, secondly the tenth second sub dial is actually a twentieth second. Lastly the size of your wrist which is quite small should not really jeopardise the Bulova, my wrist is not enormous but the watch wears ok, smaller than my Precisionists.

[@Jonsson474]

It’s quite annoying that people with smaller wrists always write watches with a larger diameter off, claiming that they are to big. They are not. They might be to large for someone with a wrist under 7”, but for someone with a larger wrist, they might be perfectly sized. It all depends on your wrist size. A 38 or 40 mm watch on my 7 3/4 wrist looks way off.

[@victorcreed8856]

I could be wrong, but I think the modern iteration of the Omegas have sapphire crystals now, only the originals had hesalite.

[@Claimjumper55]

@@victorcreed8856 They make both versions.

[@eleveneleven572]

@@victorcreed8856 You can have a new Speedmaster with both types.... hesalite or sapphire.

[@ReviewThisWatch]

He did mention that the Bulova has a sapphire crystal though.. plus he is emphasizing that the watch is a bit big for his wrist. They are both great watches. I love how Bulova corrected some mistakes done by the speedmaster or added over it. The date window, the sapphire crystal, as well as the tachymeter being under the crystal.

[@voiceofexperience]

Love the Bulova LP; it's the only quartz watch I own. The history of that watch and of the Bulova company, the HAQ movement & the "3D" dial make it a very special piece indeed.

[@chriscaruana3471]

The shape of the chrono--pushers on the Bulova was a design feature on the original watch to make it easier for an astronaut to actuate while in a space suit with thickly padded gloves. I imagine the Omega's own pushers would have been harder to press with a space suit on than the Bulova's. Sometimes a little more planning and thought can go a long way when designing a watch for a specific purpose, in this case space use - Yay for the 'underdog' :)

[@jimferry4751]

I sold my Speedy as it was just OK. I still own my Bulova Lunar and replaced the strap with a good quality pilot strap with white stitching. Gave it a whole new look. I sold my speedy and purchased 4 Oris watches and had $$$ left.

[@rainerbuechse6923]

ORIS: congrats!

[@BASNICO1113]

I have both watches and I honestly like the Lunar Pilot more

[@feralgrandad4429]

Nice video, really enjoyed it (subscribing was easy decision) I owned/ran both these watches side by side for a year and a half. Though I brought both on bracelets I took off a put both on "nato" straps. Size is no problem for me my wrist is fair bit bigger the yours. Here's the shocker. I sold the Omega. I just didn't like it four and a half grands worth more. Therefore I sold it and brought a round the world air ticket and took the Bulova with me. Two other points. Only time I've not worn it is when I lent to my son to wear on his four tours of Afghanistan. He had zero problems with it holding up to a very tough environment. The othe is I once left it on when I went scuba diving on the wreak of the Zenobia of Cyprus. My logbook shows a 50 minute dive to a total depth of 41 meters. Bulova was fine (thank goodness!) In short I just bonded with the Bulova more. I like it's style and it's backstory. Once again. Nice comparison video.

[@eleveneleven572]

I agree. I have a Seamaster and took it for a service. Whilst there I looked over the Speedmaster, I wanted one. Great...my Seamaster in service and I could walk out with a Headmaster. But no. The Speedmaster didn't do it for me. I was VERY upset. I couldn't bring myself to buy it. Then months later, bored at home during lockdown, I came across the Bulova online. I liked the look, the history, I'm a sucker for the underdog. I searched for a supplier and found Jomashop had it at a good price. At the price it was worth the risk. I haven't regretted it for a moment.

[@TheWayofGrace89]

There is something so special and even romantic I think about that Speedmaster. The manual wind only, the crisp click of the pushers on the fingertips. The waxy, warm feeling of the hesalite. It’s so amazing to own, and I only recently got one. It was, as you say, a ‘sacrifice’ in a way to part with $3500 for a watch, but I can firmly say that I have ZERO regrets about doing so. The history, provenance, purity and unquestionably classic design all make it an easy buy. Good one, Guy!

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Taylor W. Did you get your Moonwatch on the grey market?

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Taylor, and enjoy it!

[@mikeparkervideo]

I almost bought a Speedmaster at a duty-free shop at Changi International in 1999, the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. I looked at it, put it on my wrist, played with the pushers and decided not to buy it. The truth is, I thought it looked and felt --- dare I say --- cheap. The dial is one-layer, the bracelet underwhealming and it was manual wind. The manual wind "feature" was the real deal-breaker. To some, manually winding a watch is a treasured ritual; to me it was a major PITA. I bought an Omega Seamaster --- Bond version --- that I felt was much better made, COSC auto movement, and much nicer bracelet and dial. I still have that watch. A few years ago, I literally stumbled onto the Bulova Lunar Pilot. Who knew? Over the past 3 years, I have bought three of the Lunar Pilots --- bracelet, strap and the black ion plated versions. I was sold on the 262 KHz movement, the overall quality and, especially, the dial. It has amazing depth --- simply stunning! --- and makes the Speedmaster dial look like a cheap Chinese copy. I remain happy that I passed on the Speedy in 1999 and waited for the Bulova Lunar Pilot. YMMV...

[@joeconrad3828]

I am falling in love with the Bulova, but I couldn’t help noticing that Dave Scott’s original moon watch has the misspelling “TACHOMETER” while this new version has the correct “TACHYMETER”. If this has already been discussed somewhere I’ve missed it. I kind of wish Bulova would release a special version for us purists that has the wrong word imprinted on it.

[@duck853]

Great catch.

[@BoleDaPole]

It's not misspelled, that's just how we can them here

[@TinBin-Craig]

i do like Bulova Lunar Pilot a lot its on my get list .. cheers for the review...

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks buddy

[@jefferyneu3915]

The quartz movement in that Bulova is accurate to 10 seconds/YEAR. That makes the Bulova much more practical to me. Every time I pick it up, itaccurate and ready to go. The 60 minute totalizer vs 12 hours is a big deal. Oh well, I have G-Shocks that can run a chronograph for 99 hours. Sure, I still love my Omegas, but go to quartz when accurate time is important.

[@BoleDaPole]

Also the bulova didn't break when it went to the moon

[@williammaas937]

I too love the Omega Speedy but I own the Bulova Pilot. I am no fan of quartz watches but that 272kHz engine is really something special. After about two years it has has gained about 2 seconds. Mine is on an OD green Zulu strap and rides on my 8 inch wrist. Still hope to add a Speedy someday...

[@JustBlueFish]

2 seconds in 2 years is pretty freaking amazing.

[@brilliantradience]

I only set it for DST and it's already 4 seconds fast, my watch is trash. My Casio Royale is keeping the same time for $23 and it has a perpetual calendar and never needs to be set, at least till 2100.

[@brittonstokes]

Lucky you, I have to synchronize the time on my Speedy to an atomic clock about once every other week. Gains about a minute during that time frame.

[@josemariah.5421]

I very much prefer the Bulova. There is not comparison!!! I got both.

[@karlsenula9495]

Saw your criticism of the tenths of a second meter on the Bulova and while I agree that it isn't so useful for us but maybe on a moon watch (which is a large part of it's appeal) it is a useful measurement for things like burn time on engines.

[@nkyryry]

You can get the Bulova for $350…. Considering it’s MASSIVELY more accurate than the Omega it’s the superior watch. The Omega can’t touch it. Not even close.

[@BrakkoJanus]

I'd be all over a midsize Bulova Lunar Pilot!

[@JustBlueFish]

I'm surprised they haven't already offered one.

[@BrakkoJanus]

@@JustBlueFish I am as well honestly, I think it would sell very well.

[@feralfeline6137]

@@JustBlueFish The movement is huge, I don't think it fits a smaller case or all the proportions are wrong. The stars and stripes watch has the same problem. It's a shame because the watches look cool for the price.

[@masqueman01]

@@JustBlueFish It seems like a no-brainer, and I would sign up for one too. The side-by-side view makes the Bulova look simply huge.

[@BrakkoJanus]

@@feralfeline6137 Didn't know the movement was so big, that's a shame because a smaller model would require a complete expensive rework.

[@eleveneleven572]

To be honest I tried on a new Speedmaster when I received my Seamaster back after a service. I wasn't impressed tbh. It felt lightweight and I felt it was not worth the money. Then on returning home I discovered the Bulova. Its big, which suits me, and I like that its more waterproof and very accurate. So i ordered one. Winning. I'm not a trader or investor, I just want to enjoy the watch. As an everyday watch its perfect.

[@WatchGeek]

The Speedmaster is actually 54mm lug to lug if you include the end links of the bracelet if I'm not mistaken, as I know I was surprised how much they were protruding when I tried the watch on. Loved the video

[@ericj.thibeault6039]

Which "sacrifices" are we making here? Bulova has a better crystal, better more accurate movement. More unique design with the pushers and far more depth on the dial. Your move.

[@gregalonzo747]

Professional and well done. I definitely prefer this type of comparison as opposed to those silly point scoring matchups. Let's face it, those types of reviews are just subjective.

[@JustBlueFish]

Ya the “score” style reviews don’t appeal to me. It’s meaningless and arbitrary most of the time.

[@tn_onyoutube8436]

All reviews are subjective. By definition.

[@oldfashionedsportsmanchave4590]

The best review is the one where the hottest lady models for us.

[@tex73smith]

From the comment section it looks like Bulova wins. Even with you trying to sell the omega for the win.

[@melvinastrahan]

Bulova $300 vs Omega $6,000 ... game over man

[@garethbowen-ls6qg]

The Bulova is much better value. I own both and the Bulova gets much more wrist time! I have an Eight and One Eighth inch wrist. I bought the Bulova because I wasn’t happy with the Omega.

[@TheChrisrg]

Just took hold of a Bulova today and am very happy with it. Would love a Speedmaster but not got four bags of sand for one, so when I read up on the Bulova and its price tag (and if you shop about you can get one for 300 hundred quid like I did) and heritage what's not to like. Class watch , can strongly recommend.

[@markthespark25]

Great content as always Guy! I'm a fan of the HAQ such as Bulova's 262khz movement for budget watches, great for an everyday piece. I wish they offered the Lunar Pilot in about a 39-42 mm case diameter, I'd be all over it!

[@gamewizard1760]

I have a Precisionist Longwood 3 hand watch, and that's 42mm. A chrono packs more features in, so it has to be bigger. The Precisionist line also needs a high capacity, lithium battery because vibrating the quartz crystal at 262khz requires a lot of power. You'd be changing it too often if they used a smaller battery. There's only so small they can make them and still fit everything inside.

[@wayneturner1336]

I found the omega to be small on my wrist, it wears differently due to the shorter lugs and has less breadth due to the standard pushers. The Bulova, which I bought in the strap and bracelet versions, has more depth to the dial, the trench around the outside of the face provides a really interesting visual. The chronograph is certainly something that I use regularly, it hasn’t proven to be a problem for me at all. I have an 8.5” wrist, the lug to lug isn’t a problem as I have, and I think this is important, a broader plain across the top of my wrist. I went into my AD fully expecting to walk out with an omega, left puzzled afterwards, did more investigation and discovered the Bulova. To be honest I was thinking of a Pogue, and really was pleased when I put on the Bulova. My frustration with the Lunar Pilot is the inability to switch from bracelet to strap on the bracelet version. That seems like a cash grab to me and I find that somewhat annoying. Other than that I have no complaints. Accuracy is remarkable, chronograph (to me at least) is legible and functional for my purposes, the head fits comfortably across my wrist and is within my comfort zone for size, and lastly I enjoy the fact that it allowed me to put my savings towards another grail watch. Excellent value proposition, never looked back once I had purchased it. Great review, nice to see some knowledge behind the review and a side by side to display the size difference. Out of curiosity would you happen to know the length of time that the watch would run with the chronograph activated? Keep it up, love your reviews. (Edit: loved it when you said “obfuscate”, only heard people use it in conversation a few times)

[@TheLumeRoom]

The Speedmaster is an icon with rich history and significance. The Lunar Pilot is tremendous for the money though and will look great in any collection!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching I appreciate it.

[@antonytheolddog8626]

Totally agree with your comments. I have a moonie and love it. But I feel like the fact I was born the 18 july 69 just before the walked on the moon and yes I'm imminently 50 dammit but I feel it was the perfect choice for me. But the bulova is still a very nice watch and carries its own history and would for me not compete with the omega but compliment it in a collection..

[@FatSamEIE]

@@antonytheolddog8626 happy birthday mate 👍

[@patricksmatrick6193]

The Boluva lunar has a pretty significant history as well. It's just overlooked because it's cheaper and a quartz.

[@algheroman6476]

I have both and I tend to wear the Bulova more than the Omega. Plus the Omega is a manual wind at over $6K.

[@MrNorcal81]

Same here. I have the Bulova and a Speedmaster "Sapphire Sandwich" model. I love my Speedy but it does have its drawbacks such as in it's not hackable so setting the time can be an adventure and its accuracy is not all that great. I take it out occasionally but it's pretty much a collectors item now. The Lunar Pilot is accurate as hell and its size is not an issue. I wear it on a Barton rubber strap so its good for any environment and weather. It, along with another Bulova high frequency chronograph (98b245) are my every day go to watches now.

[@niclightfoot4329]

I've had the Bulova Lunar Pilot for around two years and, until recently watching a couple of videos on KZbin, its size never crossed my mind. I am quite a small person, but perhaps I have large wrists as it works perfectly fine on my wrist - I am looking at it now, and there is nothing wrong with it. As for the chronograph sub-dial measurement range, this is purely a function of the purpose for which you require the chronograph, if you require it at all. I am a motor racing fan and a chronograph that can time to 1/20th of a second is brilliant for me when timing a lap - it was one of the most exciting things about this watch when I bought it (along with it being based on a genuine moon watch)! The 12 hour timer is not so useful when timing motor racing laps. Actually, I struggle to think of when a 12 hour chronograph timer would be useful. When I do use the chronograph on any of my watches, I don't think I ever use it for more than a minute or two. That's what chronographs were designed to do. If you want longer, get a dive watch - still only extends to one hour. Maybe, if I want to time my cooking then 1/20th of a second is useless and the ability to keep track over a period of hours may be more useful. Frankly, I like to have both capabilities and will use a different time-piece for any given requirement (not always a watch). But the Bulova 1/20th second is quite rare and is a massive stand-out advantage against the Omega, not a disadvantage. I think bang-for-buck, the Bulova is the better watch, not that there is anything wrong with the Omega. I also like the date complication on the Bulova. As another reviewer points out, the Bulova was specifically designed to go to the moon (the Omega was not, it was just chosen by NASA) and the chronograph pushers on the Bulova were designed with this in mind. It was actually designed for Dave Scott, the Apollo 15 mission commander. He also had a Speedmaster issued by NASA, but it mysteriously broke on the lunar surface (the crystal cracked) and he was able to wear his personal Bulova as a replacement whilst out on the lunar surface. I've always found it interesting that Commander Scott's Omega was, as far as I know, the only Speedmaster that has ever been reported as failing on a mission during NASA's entire manned spaceflight history, and he just happened to have his own personal Bulova to use in its place 🙂! It was the only personally owned watch ever to be worn on the moon: all the others remain the property of NASA. Also it was a prototype, not a production watch. As far as I know, it only went in to production with a quartz movement (unlike Dave Scott's watch, which was mechanical) in 2016. I've thought long and hard about it, and I would rather pay £500 for the Bulova than £5 000 for the Omega to have a "moon watch" (of course, Dave Scott's actual watch sold for a lot more than £500 after his return to earth). I also marginally prefer the look of the Bulova, especially the flat crystal with the tachymeter underneath the crystal (unique?) and the 3D effects on the sub-dials sunken in to the main dial. I prefer the chronograph pushers on the Omega, but you can't get away from the fact that the Bulova pushers are styled on the watch that was specifically designed to go to the moon. One final point, I am English and live in England, but I think Bulova are doing great things as an American watch brand! I own another Bulova (a mechanical watch) in addition to my Lunar Pilot and wouldn't hesitate to recommend this brand or buy another Bulova in future.

[@jefferyneu3915]

The styling of the Omega bezel looks better to my eye. That said, I would prefer having the bezel under the crystal. Nearly every preowned Speedmaster is horribly scratched and I know I would destroy the bezel on a Speedmaster. I do like the Speedmaster more, but I could never afford the Speedmaster. I feel like the Bulova gives a lot of value! Thank you for a thoughtful, balanced comparison!👍

[@gregmacd2829]

The Bulova was purpose built for the Apollo missions, the pusher design was to be used with gloves on hence their larger size and design, the Speedy was used for motorsports and just happened to fit the needs of NASA, I have a few Seamaster watches and love Omega, but for the money, the Bulova is awesome and I have one in my collection.

[@danielcleaveland3240]

I have both and they are great. The Bulova was one of my first when I started collecting.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

Thanks for the great review love your channel! I owned the Bulova...I flipped it to a friend who loves it. The thing I loved about the watch was that it had the ‘ultra high precision’ movement in it. horologically significant And something that Bulova is known for. they keep putting Rhonda Quartz in their other chronographs And that’s why I don’t own a bunch of them. The only thing that I didn’t like about the watch was the 52/53 mm lug to lug. Even with a 7 1/2 inch wrist It went right to the edges.42 or 43 mm width With an under 50 mm lug to lug And I’d buy it again tomorrow!

[@frankhujsa821]

Just saw your comment, and your time has come!

[@davidmckenna1549]

I really like both watches. Unfortunately, the Omega is beyond my current budget. What I especially like about the Bulova is it looks more like something one would wear in space. It is a bit more on the futuristic side.

[@eleveneleven572]

Just compare legibility. The Bulova wins hands down.

[@BoleDaPole]

You'd have one by now if you saved up 100 bucks per month since writing this post

[@rickyny78]

I like what you did there at 18:18 Both watches are synch with each other and not only the Chrono, but the second hands as well. Nice detail! Thumbs up brother

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks

[@aswtx75]

I just happened to be wearing my Bulova 'moon watch' when I clicked on this video and didn't even realize it, lol. Also I have it on that exact same Barton strap. Highly recommend that strap with this watch, looks fantastic. I have 7" wrist and the Bulova doesn't look that big. I'm definitely not a fan of the bigger watches and I wear this no problem. When you said it was 45mm I was actually suprised. It's big'ish but definitely doesn't feel that big. I don't mind this one being a little on the bigger side because it's technically a pilot watch so it kinda fits the theme. I would say if you're around a 7" wrist and are put off by the size, maybe try one on if you can. One thing I don't like personally is its 'wingspan' is long - which actually looks kind of cool, makes it look kinda like a spaceship - but it's quite flat on the back and just barely curves right at the end of the lugs. So it doesn't just hug your wrist real nicely like it probably would if it was a smaller size (or if I just had bigger wrist). Little clunky feeling. Still, it's not too bad. Highly recommend. Pretty tough watch too. It's become my work watch, and I bang it around and it still looks practically brand new.

[@notyourrealfather]

I think a thing to point out would have been the design choices based on the job at hand. The Bulova has those unique pushers and longer wingspan because it designed for use in a spacesuit. While the speedmaster is nice for use here on earth, the Bulova was better designed to be used on the moon or in space on the spacesuit. Plus, the automatic function likely wouldn't work all that well without gravity enroute to the moon. Anyways, I know the review is for what people would buy, I think pointing out the history behind the design elements is important and I think neat. After all, the speedmaster wasn't even specifically designed for space, it just won the contract.

[@mgrgin]

We are talking about a chrono, the bulova will dance circles around speedy regarding the accuracy

[@marsoelflaco5722]

I know it's not historically accurate but it would be nice if both companies had a Moon Watch/Lunar Pilot offering with 100 meters of water resistance.👍🏽✌🏽

[@roziroslan7891]

If the cost of Bulova is also at usd5k instead of usd500, Bulova will definitely add more specs and will blow away omega speedmaster on all the features n specs! It is not apple to apple comparison yet Bulova still stands out on quality n looks! So it's a shame to Omega!

[@jasongennero2925]

Bulova makes a precisionist chronograph, i own one, sweeping seconds hand measures hours minutes seconds tenths of a second hundredths of a sec and even thousandths of a second. It is the most accurate chronograph wristwatch in history and still to this day. And that's why I'm own one it's actually an under cover icon and you can own one from Amazon brand new for only $300.i just love having a watch that beats at 16 beats or vibrations a second that's twice as much as an ETA 2824-2 or a Rolex 3135 even. I love it.

[@edwardkeeter762]

I'll take the Lunar Pilot over the Speedmaster every time. Besides being a full order of magnitude cheaper,than the Omega, the Bulova is infinitely more accurate and reliable, requires far, far less maintenance, and when it does need to get serviced, you don't have to mortgage your house to pay for it. Both watches are beautiful, but the the Omega is absolutely not $5,000 prettier. The Speedmaster is the conspicuous consumption choice. The Lunar Pilot is the rational choice, and the Omega Speedmaster Moon Swatch is the choice for rubes who know absolutely nothing about watches.

[@MichaelWillems]

I bought one of these, fully expecting to return it after seeing this and other reviews. My largest other watch is 42mm. But guess what? It is NOT too large, It wears beautifully. Not sure why, but this size is right (and no, I do not have a thick wrist): under 7".

[@vintageswiss9096]

The biggest difference is the movement and the accuracy. The omega has the brand name and prestige… The Bulova has a much more accurate (orders of magnitude) movement that you don’t have to wind and set every time you want to wear it. The Bulova also has the tach ring under the sapphire and the omega is going to get its bezel beaten up. The lunar pilot is much better designed for every day wear.

[@Maxseven777]

I have both of those watches. The lack of a model name on the dial (under the logo) of the Bulova is a demerit for me. Also the size of the crystal, which is a result of including the tachymeter bezel, creates the illusion of a massive dial, which makes the Bulova wear much larger than the Speedy.

[@JustBlueFish]

Good points thanks for sharing your observations.

[@stevek8829]

I agree that the sixty minute dial makes it too hard to read. I have a Citizen with that problem and you need magnification to be sure of the minute. However the only thing I ever used a chronograph for is timing a racehorse workout. There is a world of difference between 34 & 34 4/5 seconds. The Omega which does fifths would work for me but some might want tenths. A 30 sub dial that continues would be ideal--to me.

[@JustBlueFish]

Hey Steve, thanks for watching and for the comments. I think this is the first time someone has told me they use their chronograph to time racehorse workouts. That's pretty cool!

[@phillyeli215]

Great review I like sapphire crystal if i pay alot for a watch and the Omega doesnt give you that. I would love to see a side by side between the Omega vs Fortis Cosmonaut.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching. Omega does of course make a version of the Speedmaster with a sapphire crystal, but I really like the hesalite.

[@karlsenula9495]

Personally I like the look of the Lunar Pilot better ... the Omega LOOKS a lot like almost every other chronograph. The exception being that it is an Omega (obviously great quality) and more important it's OFFICIAL connection to NASA and space and the moon landing. That said the Bulova Lunar Pilot was also worn on the moon (once) but has the more unique 'different' look to it .. and was originally specially designed to compete for the NASA contract - which obviously went to Omega Instead. Lets also remember there are a number of other watches that have been to space (including worn by Russian and other foreign astronauts) and other NASA watches out there (thinking of Xeric - licensed by NASA to use the logo but has not been to space) - these others just haven't been to the moon - which was obviously the focus of this video and the excellent comparison. Just something to consider for those looking at more options.

[@simonbailey2151]

All these people complaining that the Bulova is too big just need to man up a little bit and maybe do something about their puny, little girl wrists and forearms.

[@JustBlueFish]

I know, why can't they just grow right?

[@ElijsDima]

Had the pvd'd black Bulova moonwatch; the dial on it looks a bit better (nicer brand text) and it overall looks a bit smaller. Still, it was too large for regular wearing. If Bulova had managed to release this in 42mm, it would be a perfect/must-have watch.

[@otobotrecords]

Interesting comparison. However, a 1/10th of a second (1/20th of a second to be exact) is very useful. It is much more precise than trying to read the fractions of a seconds from the chrono seconds. You can even time 100m dashes with it pretty accurately. That feature is one of the highlights of the Lunar Pilot. I felt it was like criticizing a dive watch for having a WR better than 50m, because it's not practical. That said, I'd have liked if the Lunar Pilot had 100m WR. Other than that, the Speedmaster is the horologically more desirable watch with the better fit and finish, but from a technical perspective, the Bulova is the much better and more reliable *tool watch* regarding the two main functions.

[@JustBlueFish]

True, good point. But I would guess the vast majority of us are using our timers to track steaks on the grill and not 100m dash. The lunar pilot is definitely the right tool for the job if you need the precision.

[@otobotrecords]

@@JustBlueFish Steaks and snails can be easily timed by every other watch without a chronograph, but I get your point 😁.

[@zzxxenith]

Sorry the most biased review points out all the best features of the speedmaster yet none of the best features of the bulova like the high frequency quarts accurate to 10 seconds a year sapphire crystal , that the pushers are sized for astronaut gloves and the watch didn't 'apparently' go to the moon it did.. however the rest of the review was good.

[@blueshirtbuddah1665]

What a fantastic comparison review! Very informative and thorough. The Bulova Lunar Pilot has always intrigued me, but I have yet to pull the trigger, perhaps one day. Job well done as usual Guy.

[@JustBlueFish]

If you like the sizes and you’re not one of the anti-Quartz crowd, I’d consider it. But if an Omega Speedmaster is an option that’s the one to get in my opinion.

[@blueshirtbuddah1665]

I agree. I have some quartz in my collection and I already have a Speedy MOTM and I love it. It is definitely a keeper in my collection.

[@ajbcruz]

45mm... That's a no for me, dawg. If it was 41mm it would be perfect

[@karlsenula9495]

The whole point is that it is a moon watch designed specifically for space - in which case you preferably want a larger more readable dial. Would also be worn on the outside of a spacesuit.

[@rogertoledo478]

Great content ones again fish. I own both and I own the Bulova with the stainless and moon strap as well. I like the Bulova tachymeter more on the bulova due to the views being more modern.

[@hoppysport2872]

Love your comparo! I own the bracelet version of the Bulova. Love the watch! I previously owned and sold the Speedy. I do like the saucer chrono dials on the Omega, but the Bulova's dial is so much more interesting. The chrono functions on the Speedy are so much better. The Bulova's 10th/second dial is useless. If Bulova made a reduced 40mm Lunar Pilot it would be a total hit. If they changed the sapphire to a domed crystal, even better. The bracelet on the Bulova is nicer than the Speedy's.

[@JoseJoeable]

I remember one day I walked into a watch store to get info on a service I needed for quartz watch I had. The guy at the counter noticed I was wearing my Speedy from a distance and he even said, “I see you are wearing the Speedmaster.” He was nice and he was wearing the Bulova Lunar Pilot and he showed it to me. I do say the Bulova is a nice watch and cool looking. And it’s nice to get a compliment on the Speedy.

[@Ahcelaht]

The tachymeter on the Bulova was misaligned. If you look at the 12 o'clock position you'll see it's not directly above it.

[@JustBlueFish]

I’m sure that happens a lot. On my Speedmaster the central seconds hand is misaligned slightly. Those types of QC flaws happen at all levels. Super common if you look for them you will find them.

[@Ahcelaht]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews I’d have to get it fixed, even though doing so will probably cost a decent amount of money.

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

Great video, Guy. For a sense of perspective, the size difference between a Lunar Pilot and the Speedie is similar to that of the Seiko SKX vs SBDC Sumo. The Lunar Pilot sounds like a great watch, but it’s too darn big for my wrist. I’d ideally like a 40mm Man on the F#%king Moon, but I’d have to go to the FOIS for that.

[@JustBlueFish]

I almost went for the FOIS but I didn’t want a watch on leather and it doesn’t come with a bracelet as an option. I heard there is some bracelet that omega makes that will fit it but it seemed like a hassle to hunt it down. So I just went with the professional.

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews Good choice for you then.

[@mthirteen]

Thanks for a very practical review. The Bulova applied markers at 3,6, and 9 rotated 90*degrees for not copying SMP hurts my OCD. They should have just gone for short centric bars instead of the awkward perpendicular bars. Perhaps legality and I am being just dumb. Anyways, design-wise, yuk. I thank you for pointing out the flaws in the lack of daily practicality of 1/10th sec. and the difficulty of a 60-min totalizer. Devil's Advocate: IMO my SMP 30-min totalizer has caused me some problems with the 12-hour totalizer vagueness: ie when measuring 40-45 min, it's difficult to tell if the hour marker has passed. Lack of scale similar to the Bulova 60-min totalizer minutes issue. I did notice this problem personally on frequent occasions where I had to double-take to record time: e.g: 7hours, 49min ** sec. Does that make sense for other SMP owners? Anyways great practical review and straight-to-the-point. Thanks. Subscribed.

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah you make a good point about the 12 hour, without small half hour graduations between each hour it is difficult to read quickly. I think I mentioned as much in my full Speedmaster review. Thanks again for watching and for the sub!

[@ats7485]

Ah at last. Been waiting to hear your thoughts on this comparison. Great review! I still wish the high frequency quartz didn't have so much stutter on the subdial. (You would expect it to be a smooth sweep.) Someone said why that is, once upon a time, but I forget what the reason was.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching buddy I hope you enjoyed it.

[@voiceofexperience]

It's to save on battery power. It ticks twice per second.

[@casperskestrel]

I just ordered the latest no date/43mm Lunar Pilot. I eventually want to get the Omega (to replace the 25 year old Omega Seamaster I'm giving to my son when he graduates university this year), but the Lunar Pilot will satisfy my desire to own a moonwatch until I can justify spending that much on the Omega. At the end of the day, the Bulova is a far better proposition than those awful Omega/Swatch collab watches which idiots were falling over themselves to buy last year.

[@duvalpenny100]

This is probably the best comparison video. With that being said, I got a Bulova. I love the look of it and the very obtainable price lol.

[@craig2100]

Interesting comparisons. Wish the Bulova would consider a smaller version, then imho would make it a killer deal. Belated happy 4th!

[@JustBlueFish]

They really need a smaller version. I’m not sure what they were thinking with a 53mm wingspan.

[@craig2100]

@@JustBlueFish i guess go big or go home? :-)

[@flyingrocket3879]

Bulova for me 2nd hand is the star of the show. Not to mention it didn’t break on the moon and more impressive it survived re-entry of earth.

[@kman4310]

Bulova for me. It's a no brainer.

[@FloridaClay]

Eventually I will probably pick up an Omega because of its history and I live on Florida's "Space Coast" after all. But I really, really like the look of the Bulova a lot. Clean and handsome design. A little large, but the satin finish offsets that to a degree and avoids the "look at me" a lot of big watches have. i also like the pusher design a lot. Look really easy to use. If it were an automatic instead of a quartz at this price point I would buy one in a heartbeat.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching. I appreciate it.

[@FloridaClay]

@@JustBlueFish After watching the episode, I just couldn't get the Bulova out of my head and just pulled the trigger, although I bought the steel bracelet version after having an argument with myself as to whether to get that or the strap version you reviewed, which I also like.

[@CaptainRon956]

I sold quite a few watches to make room for…… my new Bulova Lunar pilot. Awesome watch that gets a few compliments every now & then. I never had anyone compliment a watch before.

[@WhoIsSerafin]

I wanted to like the omega so much but ive just found it just ok. The bulova moon watch is just more interesting in every way. It draws you in to look at it from every angle

[@ritul89]

An aspect that every watch review misses out on is the total cost of ownership. How much is a service for omega vs a battery and water pressure test of the Bulova over 25 years ;) ... That's where the real value is determined in my eyes!!

[@chethammer]

I love the Speedmaster and I really want one. I own 2 Pagani Design PD-1701 Speedmaster Homages. It is barely over the size that it isn't too small. I have an 8.25 inch wrist so wearing the Lunar pilot won't be a problem. I have a Daytona and that is almost too small as well. Funny that the Daytona claims 40mm, but is actually 38.5. I bought the Lunar Pilot from Jomashop for $339. Haven't received it yet.

[@mikeybmw1]

I have both and tbh I think they are both fab watches ..

[@curious5557]

Great review. Good points - Bulova the affordability and a larger size for people with larger wrists. Thanks

[@toastedclubtrain]

Love my Bulova. I have 8.5 inch wrists and it sits beautifully. I do prefer the NATO strap from the edition I got as opposed to the leather strap ( that’s mainly cause of the humidity where I live and will use the leather in winter ) have not had any accuracy issues

[@tuber6382]

A handful of sacrifices? You mean a more accurate watch by something like 350 times more accurate???

[@phmwu7368]

Apollo 15 David Scott's Bulova was a manual winding chronograph, slightly smaller than the 2016 quartz re-issue... Speedmaster is also manual wind, so no compariosn makes sense...

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching and for the comments I appreciate it.

[@chandraroy6489]

Thank you for the review. Would you consider the Bulova robust? A watch to wear while doing sports?

[@VersedNJ]

They also include a NATO strap with legacy and watch information. I been looking at this watch for a few months, got a $20 ebay coupon and the seller is a company I buy from direct, cost me with the presentation box for about $290, $50 cheaper than their website. I honestly didn't want a bracelet, so that was fine. I bought this for the quartz movement in the watch. I do own an Omega a Seamaster 300m current version. When looking for this Omega didn't come to mind. If I was to get a Speedmaster in the future, would get one without hasolite (sp) and with sapphire.

[@simondoutre6225]

And u have now discovered it's nowhere near as accurate as claimed? Lol Mine wasn't

[@TheTimLara]

Bulova loves them some big watches. I'd actually be pretty interested in it if they made a 40mm version which was proportionately also about 5mm less lug-to-lug. The movement accuracy is appealing as well. Not sure if it's watch-nerd-community-myopia, but it sure seems like I hear this same request a lot whenever this watch comes up. Seems like Bulova could at least sell a lot of smaller Lunar Pilots to the watch community if they listened. Not really sure what quantity of watches sold constitutes "worth it" to them, though.

[@williamthomas6106]

Part of the reason of the Lunar Pilot was to promote their High Frequency Quartz movement which vibrates at 8 times the frequency of other Quartz watches. This is what allows it's smooth Second Hand (Chrono hand) movement, and an accuracy of 10 to 20 seconds a year, vice 10 to 20 seconds a month. The downsize is the movement is quite large. They could have used a smaller movement, but it would have had standard +-15 sec/month quartz accuracy.

[@eusupporter8438]

I agree with you especially with your comments on the size. I once thought of getting one but the size was the deal breaker.

[@simonbailey2151]

EU supporter try one on - I found it wore smaller than its dimensions, liked it and bought it.

[@get2dachoppa249]

Saving for the Speedmaster, will get the Lunar Pilot as a late xmas gift to myself. As a longtime space geek, and being in the aerospace industry, the writing on the caseback is a plus. Def going to put a black/grey striped NATO strap on the Bulova.

[@darrenmathias9384]

The Bulova dial is actually very close to the original design from the 60s, which even had applied markers. That just reflects how far ahead in terms of modern design they were at the time.

[@privateinfo4820]

Great review Guy, details, everything.. nice job.. I could never go for that Bulova.. way too big and odd looking for my tastes.. that strap looks horrible too.. too thick..

[@JustBlueFish]

If it weren’t so massive I’d give it a chance but much to large for me.

[@BradMorrisKA3YAN]

The new smaller Lunar Pilot might improve the presentation on your smaller wrist. I've got a fat wrist, so the larger Lunar Pilot fits me perfectly. Also, I can't justify the cost of the Omega, even though it's beautiful. The Lunar Pilot is the favorite of all the watches that I own. It looks so good.

[@paulsteele6120]

What you see is what you get, except the Bulova is a damn sight more accurate. Go figure.

[@JaxWatchesandEDC]

I had the Bulova. It's a neat watch, but it really needs trimmed down a few millimeters. I have a 7.25" wrist and wish it would have been smaller.

[@stevenrobertson7643]

The top right Omega minute recorder starts moving after the central seconds hand has recorded 58 seconds and has moved to record the additional minute when the central seconds hand hits the 59 seconds mark so is not accurate as it should only move when 60 seconds have elapsed when it hits the 12 dead on. This is a problem this watch has had for years and Omega do nothing about it.

[@robertlittlehawk7713]

unless you are timing to next to nothing in like doing a burn for reentry 10 th of a second is just nuts and that 60 min dial is just too weird ty for the comparison Guy

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks buddy.

[@gregtomaszewski563]

I have Speedmaster and Lunar Pilot and after 2 years i say this. Omega was worn 10-15 times yet Bulova is on my wrist20 times in month if not more. I do have bigger wrist so it look good. Now about over all quality. I personally think that Speed HAS place in history and it is special watch but it is overpriced ,quality is not what you expect from 5000$ Chrono and we pay for name. Dare iit is not worth it? Water resistance is not important since i prefer leather strap and if i swim have Doxa Sub300 Professional for it. SO 30 meters is good for this watch. I like more look, design and that full sapphire crystal .and i know that Quartz movement is not as respected as mechanical but i do not care. That movement in Bulova is amazingly good and accurate. I do not care if people notice my watch but i am asked often about what is on my wrist when i have Bulova but then even more people notice Doxa It is all about peoples preferences and i do like BULOVA over OMEGA.

[@themadrazorback2019]

Dials on Omega, I think are same as worn on moon. Not true with Bulova (fine by me). Pushers are strangely shaped to make ease of use with space suit gloves is my understanding. Great review, thanks.

[@brianbuchert6382]

Love the review! I’m purchasing the Bulova lunar moon watch in a cpl days. Don’t get me wrong if I had the funds to spend on a watch I’d be buying the omega,but having one starting college next week I have to go with the bulova,but I don’t feel like I’m settling.i like the whole story behind the lunar moon and being a large man I have no problem with the wingspand on the bulova.i just can’t wait to get it., I subbed and subscribed as I found this to be a fair evaluation!,

[@sweoff]

Just an FYI the Bulova Bracelet vs Non-Bracelet version has one MAJOR difference is the lug holes are in 2 different places making the bracelet version will not hard fit any other band/bracelet. (Bad Design)

[@JustBlueFish]

Wow had no idea. That’s an odd design choice. Thanks for sharing.

[@BoleDaPole]

I love both of these watches, both are fantastic.

[@darkestfugue]

if it were a beauty contest there would be no contest

[@snapfitness1]

My biggest complaints about the bulova which I own are the 2 piece straps. This one is the worst strap I've ever worn because of the stiffness and length ... or lack of. I trashed it the day it came. And for its size I wish the width was 22 over its current 20.

[@JustBlueFish]

I’d get the bracelet if I was gonna buy one.

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

3 things that I disliked about the Bulova 1 the size, 2 the dead flat crystal, 3 the pushers. If the Bulova came with a domed crystal and was 38 to 40mm it would sell like hot cakes

[@jancoetzee4414]

Really comprehensive review! Thanks

[@raztaman12]

getting one!. perhaps this coming Christmas! i know it will fit prefect on my 7.5 in wrist.

[@benmilburn5949]

You think a Lunar Pilot is an “entry level” watch?

[@karlsenula9495]

After a Google search average men's wrist size is 7.25 in. 80% of men have larger than 6.75 in. And 20% have larger than 7.75in. In which case the LP should be ok in my opinion - especially if the size is a major concern.