Bulova 97A138 Sutton Automatic Skeleton Dial Leather Band

Bulova 97A138: The Sutton Skeleton With the Works on Display

The Bulova 97A138 is built around one clear idea: put the movement where you can see it. The Sutton case gives the watch a classic gold-tone frame, while the open silver-tone dial lets the 21-jewel automatic movement become the main attraction.

An Open Dial Without the Guesswork

Skeleton watches can get messy fast. This one keeps enough structure around the dial to stay readable, with gold-tone markers and hands set against a silver-tone chapter ring. The visible gearing adds motion and texture without turning the whole face into a puzzle.

A Case That Leans Formal, Not Fragile

The 43mm stainless steel case has a warm gold-tone finish and a domed mineral crystal. It is not a slim dress watch, and the 30m water resistance is basic splash protection, but the polished case and brown leather band make it easy to wear with smarter casual outfits.

The Automatic Is the Point

Bulova uses its 8N26 automatic movement here, visible from both the dial side and the exhibition caseback. It is a straightforward self-winding mechanical setup: no battery, no app, just the rotor and gear train doing the work as you wear it.

The Bottom Line

The 97A138 is for someone who wants mechanical motion on display more than a traditional minimal dial. If you want thin and quiet, look elsewhere. If you want a Sutton that shows why automatic watches are fun, this is the version that makes the clearest case.