Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial

Sophisticated Skeleton Dial Luxury for the Enthusiastic Watch Collector

Full manufacturer title

Bulova Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial, Open Aperture, Self-Winding, Exhibition Caseback, Double Curved Mineral Crystal, Luminous Hands, 42mm Brown Strap/Brown Dial

Typical price

$401

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Ravvy verdict

87.4 / 100

A stunning entry-level luxury timepiece for those who value mechanical aesthetics over ruggedness, accepting the modest water resistance for superior visual design.

Best for: professionals seeking a sophisticated dress watch with visible mechanical movement
Buy it if: You want intricate open-heart skeleton dial design.
Skip it if: You are outdoor athletes or swimmers needing high water resistance and durability.
Best alternative: Bulova Men's 3-Hand Calendar Date Quartz Watch, Patterned Dial, 38mm, Style: 96B149 (professionals seeking a classic dress watch with a slim profile)

How it scores on what matters

Aesthetics94.2
Craftsmanship88.0
Versatility84.5
Precision81.5
Water Resistance40.0

Ravvy factor scores, 0 to 100, derived from specs, owner reviews and category norms.

What it is

The Bulova Sutton 96A120 is a masterclass in visual mechanics, blending traditional watchmaking with a modern aesthetic. Its standout feature is the open aperture at the 7 o'clock position, which provides a direct window into the pulsing heartbeat of the Japanese automatic movement. The rich brown dial, complemented by a textured croc-embossed leather strap, offers a warm and distinguished look that pairs perfectly with business attire or formal evening wear. Crafted with a domed mineral crystal and a substantial 42mm stainless steel case, this timepiece feels significant on the wrist without being overly bulky. The inclusion of a 24-hour sub-dial and a sweeping second hand adds functional depth to the face. Because it is a self-winding mechanical watch, it eliminates the need for batteries, relying instead on the natural motion of the wearer to stay powered, which is a hallmark of true horological craftsmanship.

Ravvy AI insight

While the 42mm size is standard for modern dress watches, the domed crystal adds significant visual height, so be mindful of tight shirt cuffs. The Japanese automatic movement is reliable, but since it lacks a quartz regulator, expect a variance of a few seconds per day which is typical for this price bracket.

Generated from owner feedback, product specs, pricing, and retailer data. Last updated Aug 25, 2026.

What owners praise

Intricate open-heart skeleton dial design
Reliable self-winding automatic movement
Elegant croc-embossed leather strap with deployment buckle
Exhibition caseback reveals the inner gears
Sophisticated 24-hour sub-dial complication

What to know first

Limited 30m water resistance is not suitable for swimming
Mineral crystal is more prone to scratches than sapphire
Requires regular wear or a winder to maintain time

Specifications

UPC: 961613274236 042429466982
Bands: 1
Shape: Round
Crystal: Crystal
Display: Analog
Pattern: Solid
Material: Stainless-steel
Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
Character: Fashion
Band Color: Brown
Band Width: 22 millimeters
Brand Name: Bulova
Clasp Type: Deployment-buckle-with-push-button
Department: mens
Dial Color: Brown
Face Style: Skeleton
Model Name: 96A120
Sport Type: Walking
Strap Type: Leather Strap
Style Name: Classic Automatic
Unit Count: 1 Ounce
Band Length: 9.5 inches
Bezel Color: Silver
Item Weight: 0.29 kg
Closure Type: Buckle
Manufacturer: Bulova
Model Number: 96A120
Model Series: Classic Automatic
Case Diameter: 41 millimeters
Warranty Type: Manufacturer
Case Thickness: 11 millimeters
Item Type Name: Stainless Steel with Brown Leather Strap Watch
Number of Items: 1
Item model number: 96A120
Band Material Type: Leather
Case Material Type: Stainless Steel
Product Dimensions: 4.7 x 3.4 x 3.3 inches; 10.23 ounces
Additional Features: Automatic Self Wind, Light Up, Water Resistant
Included Components: Warranty Information
Watch Movement Type: Japanese Automatic
Age Range Description: Adult
Embellishment Feature: Crystal
Water Resistance Depth: 99 feet
Water Resistance Level: Water Resistant
Manufacturer Part Number: 96A120
Global Trade Identification Number: 00042429466982

How to get the most out of it

Setting the Time Correctly

Pull the crown out to the first position to set the time. Since this is an automatic watch, wind it manually about 20 times when first starting it to build a power reserve.

Ownership tips

care

Leather Strap Longevity

Avoid exposing the leather strap to excessive moisture or perspiration. Wipe the inner lining with a dry cloth after wear to prevent salt buildup and leather degradation.

tip

Using the Deployment Buckle

The deployment buckle is designed to reduce wear on the leather. Once sized to your wrist, use the push-button release rather than unbuckling the leather to keep the strap looking new.

Frequently asked questions

Does this watch require a battery?

No, this is an automatic mechanical watch. It is powered by the kinetic energy of your arm movements and does not contain an electronic battery.

Can I wear this watch while showering?

It is not recommended. With a 30M water resistance rating, the watch is only splash-resistant. Steam and submersion can damage the seals and the leather strap.

What is the purpose of the 24-hour dial?

The 24-hour sub-dial indicates whether the time shown is AM or PM. This is particularly helpful when setting the time to ensure the internal gears transition correctly.

Is the glass scratch-proof?

The watch uses a domed mineral crystal. While it is hardened and impact-resistant, it is not as scratch-resistant as sapphire crystal, so avoid contact with abrasive surfaces.

Where can you buy the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial?

Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial is sold through Amazon, and Bulova also lists it through its own site and major retail partners. The buy link on this page goes straight to the current Amazon listing, which is where stock and pricing update most often.

How much does the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial cost?

The last price Ravvy recorded was $401. Retail pricing on watches moves with promotions and stock, so treat that figure as a reference point and check the live listing before you buy.

How do you get the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial for a cheaper price?

Three tactics work best: watch for holiday and seasonal sale events when watches discounts run deepest, compare the open box or renewed listing against new stock, and check whether Bulova is running a coupon or bundle. Adding the product to your Ravvy wishlist keeps it handy so you can revisit the listing when prices drop.

Is the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial in stock right now?

It was in stock at our last check. Availability on popular watches can change within hours, so the live listing is the source of truth.

Is the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial worth it?

Ravvy scores it 87.4 out of 100. The strongest argument for it is intricate open-heart skeleton dial design. The trade off to weigh is limited 30m water resistance is not suitable for swimming.

Who should buy the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial?

It fits professionals seeking a sophisticated dress watch with visible mechanical movement If that does not describe your situation, compare it with the other options in Watches before committing.

What are the key specs of the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial?

UPC: 961613274236 042429466982. ASIN: B004I5GOK8. Bands: 1. Shape: Round.

What are good alternatives to the Men's Classic Sutton 4-Hand Automatic Watch, 24-Hour Sub Dial?

Compare it against the other scored picks in Watches on Ravvy. We rank every option in that group by the same criteria, so you can see which model wins on value, quality, and owner sentiment before you decide.

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