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The Bulova A-15 Pilot (96A245) is an automatic, pilot-style watch built around two independently controlled rotating inner discs: one for elapsed time and one for a second time zone. It is not a conventional chronograph, and Bulova describes its 30-meter water resistance as splash resistant. Its appeal is therefore specific: an unusual, hands-on timing display in a 42 mm stainless-steel case, rather than a feature-for-feature substitute for a chronograph or a watch intended for swimming.
What makes the A-15 Pilot different?
Its defining feature is a pair of rotating discs inside the dial, operated by two crowns. Bulova says the crown at 2 o’clock rotates the elapsed-time disc, while the crown at 4 o’clock indicates dual time. This gives the watch two useful display functions without a conventional chronograph mechanism: it can track elapsed time and show another time zone, but the method is manual rotation of the inner discs rather than starting and stopping a chronograph.
Bulova describes the design as inspired by the 1944 Military Issue A-15 “Elapsed Time Watch.” That is the manufacturer’s account of the connection; the product information cited here does not independently establish the original watch’s production history or specifications. Bulova’s product page
Specifications and construction
| Specification | Bulova A-15 Pilot 96A245 |
|---|---|
| Case width | 42 mm |
| Lug width | 20 mm |
| Case and dial | Silver-tone stainless steel case; black dial |
| Crystal | Double-domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Movement | 82S6 automatic; hack feature listed by Bulova |
| Stated power reserve | 42 hours |
| Strap | Leather |
| Listed weight | 92 g |
| Water-resistance description | 30 meters; category labeled “WR [Splash Resistant]” |
These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results. The listing’s automatic-movement explanation says it is powered by a wound spring and does not require a battery; it does not establish measured accuracy, actual reserve under use, or a service interval. Bulova’s specification and product details
#1 Best Overall
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CAREY DUAL TIME: Designed as a tribute to one of Britain’s most distinguished fighter aces and commanders in both Europe and the Pacific during WWII, the Carey Dual Time is a perfectly wearable pilot’s watch drawn from a classic silhouette.
- DUAL TIME MOVEMENT: Dual time zones, for the world traveller - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Dual Time and Date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Carey Dual Time features a 43mm stainless steel case, 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens with anti-reflective coating and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
How the elapsed-time and dual-time discs work
The two crowns control separate indications. Use the 2 o’clock crown to rotate the elapsed-time disc and align it with the relevant dial reference when beginning an interval. The 4 o’clock crown controls the dual-time indication. Because both functions rely on rotating discs, operating the watch is different from pressing chronograph pushers to start, stop, and reset a timed interval.
That distinction matters when choosing between this watch and a traditional chronograph. The A-15 offers an elapsed-time display, but it should not be treated as equivalent to a chronograph’s mechanism or operation. The product information establishes the crown functions, not how quickly or easily they can be read in particular lighting or used on the wrist; those judgments require hands-on inspection.
Rank #2
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CAREY DUAL TIME: Designed as a tribute to one of Britain’s most distinguished fighter aces and commanders in both Europe and the Pacific during WWII, the Carey Dual Time is a perfectly wearable pilot’s watch drawn from a classic silhouette.
- DUAL TIME MOVEMENT: Dual time zones, for the world traveller - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Dual Time and Date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Carey Dual Time features a 43mm stainless steel case, 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens with anti-reflective coating and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
Fit, water use, and ownership
Case size and strap
The 42 mm case and 20 mm lug width give a useful starting point for judging size and strap compatibility. Bulova lists a weight of 92 g, but wrist fit depends on wrist shape, strap adjustment, and personal preference; dimensions alone cannot establish whether it will feel large or comfortable on a particular wearer. Bulova lists brown, black, gray, and navy 20 mm leather straps for the model. Check buckle and fit details before buying a replacement strap.
Water resistance
Although the US listing gives a 30-meter rating, it labels the watch “WR [Splash Resistant].” Bulova Canada describes that category as appropriate for face-washing, sweat, and raindrops. The manufacturer’s wording does not support presenting the A-15 as suitable for swimming or diving. Bulova Canada’s water-resistance description and regional listing
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Rank #3
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CAREY DUAL TIME: Designed as a tribute to one of Britain’s most distinguished fighter aces and commanders in both Europe and the Pacific during WWII, the Carey Dual Time is a perfectly wearable pilot’s watch drawn from a classic silhouette.
- DUAL TIME MOVEMENT: Dual time zones, for the world traveller - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Dual Time and Date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Carey Dual Time features a 43mm stainless steel case, 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens with anti-reflective coating and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
Warranty and availability
Bulova’s US product page states a three-year limited warranty; consult the warranty terms for the applicable market and coverage details. Availability is market-dependent: the Canadian listing marked the model discontinued and sold out, while the US page displayed it for sale when retrieved in 2026. Stock can change, so check the relevant regional page or retailer before planning a purchase.
Price: treat the displayed figure as time- and market-specific
When retrieved in 2026, Bulova’s US page displayed a $620 sale price against a $775 current listed price. The page also gives an introduced price of $695 and a launch date of January 24, 2020. These are manufacturer-page figures, not verified transaction prices; Bulova notes that retail partners may set different prices. The live listing may have changed since retrieval, and the Canadian sold-out status illustrates why price and availability should be checked in the buyer’s market. Bulova US listing
Rank #4
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CAREY DUAL TIME: Designed as a tribute to one of Britain’s most distinguished fighter aces and commanders in both Europe and the Pacific during WWII, the Carey Dual Time is a perfectly wearable pilot’s watch drawn from a classic silhouette.
- DUAL TIME MOVEMENT: Dual time zones, for the world traveller - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Dual Time and Date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Carey Dual Time features a 43mm stainless steel case, 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens with anti-reflective coating and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
Who should consider the Bulova A-15 Pilot?
The 96A245 is most compelling for someone who values an automatic movement and wants an unconventional dial with separate elapsed-time and dual-time indications. Its 42 mm case, sapphire crystal, and leather strap give a clear sense of the package, while the rotating-disc controls are the feature that most distinguishes it from a straightforward three-hand pilot-style watch.
It is a less direct choice for someone specifically seeking a conventional chronograph, verified timing performance, proven on-wrist legibility, or a watch for aquatic use. The available product information does not include hands-on wear findings, measured accuracy, or independent long-term reliability results, so those qualities should not be assumed from the specifications alone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CAREY DUAL TIME: Designed as a tribute to one of Britain’s most distinguished fighter aces and commanders in both Europe and the Pacific during WWII, the Carey Dual Time is a perfectly wearable pilot’s watch drawn from a classic silhouette.
- DUAL TIME MOVEMENT: Dual time zones, for the world traveller - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Dual Time and Date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Carey Dual Time features a 43mm stainless steel case, 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens with anti-reflective coating and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
