October 21, 2026

Bulova CURV 98A162 Review: Curved Chronograph Movement, Size, Specs & Is It Worth It? | Lexor Miami

Most watches are flat. Your wrist is not. That simple observation is the idea behind the Bulova CURV, the collection built around what Bulova calls the world's first curved chronograph movement. And of all the CURV models, the Bulova 98A162 CURV Chronograph, with its gray titanium and stainless steel case, dark exhibition dial and rose gold accents, is one of the most recognizable.

If you have been researching it, you have probably run into the same questions most buyers ask. What exactly is a curved movement, and does it make a difference? Is the dial black or gray? Is 44 mm too big? Can you swim with it? How accurate is a 262 kHz quartz movement? And is it worth it compared with other Bulova chronographs? This guide answers all of it with verified specifications and an honest take. Lexor Miami has the 98A162 in stock at $735, well below its $1,050 list price, brand new with original packaging and manufacturer's warranty.

Shop the Bulova CURV 98A162 – $735

Bulova CURV 98A162: The Quick Answer

Here is what most buyers want to know in one place.

Feature	Bulova CURV Chronograph 98A162
Collection	Bulova CURV
Reference	98A162
Gender	Men's
Movement	High-performance quartz (HPQ) CURV, 262 kHz, curved chronograph movement
Functions	Hours, minutes, chronograph (five-hand display)
Case	Gray titanium and stainless steel, curved profile
Case diameter	44 mm
Lug width	25 mm
Dial	Dark gray exhibition dial with rose gold-tone hands and markers
Crystal	Double-curved sapphire
Case back	Exhibition screw-back showing the curved movement
Strap	Black rubber
Luminous	Hands
Water resistance	30 m / 3 ATM (splash-resistant, not for swimming)
List price	$1,050
Lexor Miami price	$735 (at time of writing, October 2026)

Now let's go deeper, starting with the technology that makes the CURV different from every other quartz chronograph.

What Is the Bulova CURV?

Bulova has a long history of watchmaking firsts. It introduced the Accutron tuning-fork watch in 1960, it put a watch on the Moon during Apollo 15, and in more recent years it developed high-frequency quartz movements that run far faster than ordinary quartz.

The CURV, introduced in 2016, added another chapter to that story. Bulova engineered a chronograph movement that is physically curved to follow the arc of the case, instead of a flat movement placed inside a curved case. Bulova describes it as the world's first curved chronograph movement, and curved movements remain one of the brand's specialties a decade later.

Why does that matter? Because a flat movement forces a watch to be flat underneath, or forces the designer to add bulk to create curvature. When the movement itself curves, the entire watch can wrap around your wrist more naturally, with a lower and more comfortable profile on the arm. It is a design solution you can feel the moment you put it on.

How a curved quartz movement works

The CURV movement is a high-performance quartz caliber (NR20 family, with HPQ CURV technology) designed so that its plates and components follow a gentle arc. Bulova had to rethink the layout of the circuit, the gear train and the chronograph mechanism so they could all work correctly on a curved plane. You can see the result through the exhibition case back on the 98A162: the movement visibly bends with the case.

The hands are also curved to match the shape of the dial, and the sub-dials, hands and markers seem to float above the movement. It is one of the few quartz watches where the movement is genuinely something you want to look at.

262 kHz: How Accurate Is the Bulova CURV?

Ordinary quartz watches use a crystal that vibrates at 32,768 times per second (32 kHz). Bulova's high-performance quartz movements vibrate at about 262 kHz, which Bulova describes as eight times the frequency of standard quartz.

That higher frequency brings two practical benefits:

Better accuracy than standard quartz. Higher frequency and temperature compensation help the movement keep time more precisely than a typical quartz watch, and far more precisely than any mechanical watch.
A smoother sweep. On high-frequency Bulova movements, the chronograph seconds hand moves in much finer steps than the familiar one-tick-per-second motion of standard quartz. Reviewers often point out that the motion looks closer to a mechanical sweep.

In daily use, that means you can set the 98A162 and largely forget about it. It will stay far more accurate than any automatic watch, and you will rarely need to adjust it beyond daylight saving time changes.

Is the Bulova 98A162 Dial Black or Gray?

This is a common source of confusion. Many retailers list the 98A162 as a "black dial" watch, and that is how the model is often named in online listings, including ours. Bulova and most detailed spec sheets describe it more precisely as a dark gray exhibition dial.

In person, it reads as a very dark, smoky gray that can look almost black in low light. Part of the dial is see-through, so you can glimpse the movement beneath, and the rose gold-tone hands and baton markers add warm contrast. If you are looking for a deep black dial with a subtle, layered depth, this is it. If you want a flat, glossy black dial, the 98A162 is different, and that difference is part of its appeal.

Case, Materials and Design Details

The 98A162 has one of the most technical looks in the CURV collection. Here are the details that define it.

Gray titanium and stainless steel case. The case combines titanium with stainless steel in a matte gray finish. Titanium is lighter than steel and resists corrosion, which helps a 44 mm chronograph feel more comfortable than its size suggests.
Curved case profile. The entire case follows the arc of the movement, so it hugs the wrist rather than sitting on top of it.
Double-curved sapphire crystal. The crystal is curved in two directions to match the case, and sapphire is highly scratch-resistant, much harder than mineral glass.
Rose gold-tone accents. The hands and markers in rose gold tone warm up the gray and black palette and give the watch a more refined, dressier side.
Three sub-dials. The chronograph layout gives the dial a busy, technical look that suits the sporty design.
Luminous hands for legibility in low light.
Exhibition screw-back case. A window on the back reveals the curved movement, one of the CURV's signature features.
Black rubber strap. Comfortable, durable and easy to clean, with a 25 mm lug width that matches the bold case.

The side view above shows the curve clearly. Look at how the case bends downward at both ends, following the shape of the wrist. That is the CURV concept in one image.

See the CURV 98A162 at Lexor Miami

Size and Fit: Is 44 mm Too Big?

The 98A162 measures 44 mm across with a 25 mm lug width. That is a large watch, and it is the most common concern among buyers. Reviewers have noted that the original 44 mm CURV is not ideal for smaller wrists, which is one reason Bulova later introduced a 41 mm CURV for the collection's 10th anniversary.

That said, the CURV wears smaller and more comfortably than a flat 44 mm chronograph for two reasons:

The curve follows your wrist. Because the case bends down at the ends, there is less overhang than with a flat case of the same diameter.
Titanium keeps the weight down. A titanium-based case is lighter than a full stainless steel case, so it feels less top-heavy.

Who the 98A162 fits best

Wrists around 6.75 inches (170 mm) and up: the 98A162 will look balanced and confident.
Wrists between 6.25 and 6.75 inches: it will look bold. Many people like that, especially on a sporty watch, but try to compare it with a watch you own first.
Wrists under 6.25 inches: it will look oversized. Consider the smaller 41 mm CURV models instead.

How to check the size at home

Measure the diameter of a watch you already own and like. If it is around 42 to 44 mm, the 98A162 will feel familiar. If your favorite watch is 38 to 40 mm, expect the CURV to feel noticeably larger, although the curved case softens the difference. If you are in Miami, the best option is to try it on at our showroom.

Is the Bulova CURV 98A162 Waterproof?

No, and it is important to be clear about this. The 98A162 is water resistant to 30 meters (3 ATM). Despite the number, a 30 m rating does not mean you can dive to 30 meters. In practice, it means the watch handles splashes, rain and hand-washing.

OK: rain, splashes, washing your hands, a sweaty workout.
Avoid: swimming, showering, hot tubs, snorkeling and diving.

The rubber strap may look sporty and water-friendly, but the case rating is what counts. If you need a watch for the pool or the beach, look at a dive watch with 100 m or 200 m water resistance.

The Chronograph: How to Use It

The 98A162 is a five-hand chronograph: hour and minute hands at the center, plus chronograph registers on the sub-dials. Using it is straightforward.

Start: press the top pusher to start the chronograph.
Stop: press the top pusher again to stop timing and read the elapsed time.
Reset: press the bottom pusher to return the chronograph hands to zero.

Common uses include timing a workout interval, a parking meter, a cooking time, a presentation or a lap. Because the movement is quartz, the chronograph is precise and does not affect timekeeping accuracy.

Tip: if the chronograph hands do not return exactly to zero after a battery change or a knock, most Bulova chronographs allow hand alignment through the crown and pushers. Check the instructions in your Bulova manual or ask a qualified watchmaker to do it for you.

Battery, Service and Ownership

Because the 98A162 is a quartz watch, it runs on a battery and does not need winding. A few things to keep in mind:

Battery replacement: quartz batteries typically last a few years, depending on how often you use the chronograph. When the battery runs low, have it replaced promptly to avoid leaks.
Use a qualified watchmaker: the CURV has a curved movement and a screw-back exhibition case. Battery changes should be done by a professional who can reseal the case properly and keep it water resistant.
Warranty: buying new from an authorized retailer means you receive the manufacturer's warranty. Keep your receipt and warranty documentation.
Strap replacement: the 25 mm lug width and curved case mean an original Bulova strap will fit best. Generic straps rarely follow the curve correctly.

Bulova CURV 98A162 vs Other Bulova Chronographs

If you like the CURV, you are probably also looking at other Bulova chronographs. Here is how the 98A162 compares with a few models currently available at Lexor Miami.

Model	What makes it special	Lexor Miami price
CURV 98A162	Curved chronograph movement, titanium and steel case, exhibition dial and case back	$735 (list $1,050)
CURV Chronograph 96K117	A newer addition to the CURV family	$1,450
Racer Chronograph 98B468	Motorsport-inspired chronograph	$695
Bulova 98B451	Bulova chronograph with classic styling	$995
Shelby Daytona Coupe 96K118 Limited Edition	Limited edition with automotive heritage	$1,425

CURV 98A162 vs Bulova Lunar Pilot

The Lunar Pilot is the other high-frequency Bulova chronograph people often compare with the CURV. The Lunar Pilot is about history: it is inspired by the chronograph worn on the Moon during Apollo 15. The CURV is about innovation: its claim to fame is a movement no one had built before. Choose the Lunar Pilot if space heritage speaks to you; choose the CURV if you want a watch whose shape and engineering are the main story. You can read more in our Bulova Lunar Pilot Black Hole review.

98A162 vs the 41 mm CURV

For its 10th anniversary, Bulova introduced a 41 mm CURV, three millimeters smaller than the original. Reviewers have called it more wearable for smaller wrists. The trade-off is price: the anniversary model launched at around $1,450 in the United States, roughly double what the 98A162 costs at Lexor Miami today. If your wrist handles 44 mm, the 98A162 delivers the same curved-movement concept for much less.

Explore All Bulova Watches at Lexor Miami

Bulova's Legacy of Innovation: Why the CURV Fits the Story

To understand why the CURV exists, it helps to know how Bulova thinks about watchmaking. Founded in New York in 1875, Bulova has built much of its reputation on being first rather than being traditional.

1960, the Accutron: Bulova introduced the Accutron, which used a tuning fork instead of a balance wheel and was dramatically more accurate than the mechanical watches of its day. Its distinctive hum became a symbol of the space age.
1971, the Moon: during the Apollo 15 mission, a Bulova chronograph was worn on the lunar surface, a story the brand still celebrates with the Lunar Pilot collection.
High-performance quartz: Bulova later developed its high-frequency quartz movements, the technology family behind both the Lunar Pilot and the CURV, running at about 262 kHz instead of the 32 kHz used by most quartz watches.
2016, the CURV: Bulova applied that high-frequency technology to a movement shaped like the wrist, creating what it calls the world's first curved chronograph movement.

Seen in that context, the CURV is not a gimmick. It is the latest example of a brand that has repeatedly used technology to solve practical problems, in this case how to make a feature-rich chronograph sit more comfortably on the wrist.

Who Should Buy the Bulova CURV 98A162?

Design and technology lovers who want a watch with a real engineering story, not just a logo.
Men with medium to large wrists who like bold, modern chronographs and want them to wear comfortably.
First-time luxury watch buyers who want sapphire, titanium and a high-performance movement for under $1,000.
Busy professionals who prefer a grab-and-go quartz watch that stays accurate without winding or regular adjustment.
Gift buyers looking for something that will start conversations. The CURV arrives in Bulova's presentation box, ready to give for birthdays, graduations, promotions, anniversaries or Father's Day.

Who should look elsewhere

If you have a slim wrist, a 41 mm watch will be a better fit.
If you want a watch for swimming or the beach, choose a dive watch with at least 100 m water resistance.
If your heart is set on a mechanical movement, look at Bulova's automatic models instead.

Common Myths About Quartz Chronographs

Some watch enthusiasts dismiss quartz watches out of habit. The CURV is a good example of why that view is outdated.

"Quartz means cheap." Not necessarily. Standard quartz is inexpensive to produce, but high-frequency, temperature-compensated movements like Bulova's HPQ calibers are a different category, and a curved chronograph movement took years of development.
"Quartz chronographs tick and look toy-like." The 262 kHz CURV movement produces a noticeably smoother hand motion than standard quartz, and its exhibition dial and case back show a movement that is genuinely worth looking at.
"Mechanical is always better." Mechanical watches have craftsmanship and romance, but they cannot match the accuracy of a high-frequency quartz movement, and they need regular servicing. For many people, a precise, low-maintenance chronograph is simply more practical.

Is the Bulova CURV 98A162 Worth It?

What you get

Genuine innovation. A curved chronograph movement is not just a design trick. It is real engineering, and it changes how the watch sits on your wrist.
Premium materials for the price. A titanium and steel case and a double-curved sapphire crystal are features you do not usually find at this price.
High-frequency accuracy. A 262 kHz movement keeps better time than standard quartz.
Something to look at. The exhibition dial and case back make this a quartz watch you will actually want to turn over.
A strong discount. At $735 at Lexor Miami versus a $1,050 list price, you save $315, about 30%.

What to be realistic about

Size: at 44 mm, it is not for small wrists.
Water resistance: 30 m means no swimming.
Quartz, not mechanical: if you want an automatic movement, the CURV is not that, although its technology is far more advanced than ordinary quartz.
Strap options: the curved case and 25 mm lugs limit aftermarket strap choices.

Our verdict

If you want a chronograph that stands out for its engineering rather than just its looks, and your wrist can carry 44 mm, the Bulova CURV 98A162 is one of the most interesting watches you can buy for under $1,000. At $735, it is also one of the most accessible ways to own a watch with a world-first movement.

Get the Bulova CURV 98A162 for $735

How to Style the Bulova CURV 98A162

The gray, black and rose gold palette makes the 98A162 more versatile than most sporty chronographs.

Business: a charcoal or navy suit with a white shirt. The rubber strap keeps it modern, and the rose gold accents tie in with leather shoes and belts in brown tones.
Smart casual: dark jeans, a knit polo or a leather jacket. This is where the CURV looks most natural.
Weekend and travel: a black T-shirt and sneakers. The rubber strap is comfortable in Miami heat and easy to clean.
Evening: all-black outfits make the rose gold details stand out.

Strap tips for Miami weather

South Florida heat and humidity are hard on leather straps, which is one reason the 98A162's rubber strap is such a practical choice here. Rubber does not absorb sweat, does not crack in the heat and dries quickly after a rain shower. If you ever want a change, look for an original Bulova strap made for the CURV, since its curved case and 25 mm lugs need a strap shaped to match. A well-fitted rubber strap should sit snugly just above the wrist bone, with enough room to slide one finger underneath.

How to Care for Your Bulova CURV

Wipe it after wear with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove sweat and fingerprints.
Clean the rubber strap with mild soap and lukewarm water, then dry it completely. Keep water away from the case.
Avoid magnets and extreme heat. Do not leave the watch in a hot car or near strong magnetic fields.
Keep the crown pushed in and do not press the chronograph pushers when the watch is wet.
Replace the battery on time and have it done by a professional who can reseal the case.
Store it in the original Bulova box when you are not wearing it.

Why Buy the Bulova CURV 98A162 From Lexor Miami

Authorized Bulova retailer. Every watch is 100% authentic and brand new, with original Bulova packaging.
Manufacturer's warranty included with your purchase.
A real price advantage. $735 versus the $1,050 list price, at the time of writing.
Free shipping on individual items priced at $150 or more within the 48 contiguous United States.
Secure checkout with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, PayPal and all major cards.
Expert help before you buy. Reach our team by chat, WhatsApp, phone or email with questions about size, fit or other CURV models.
More than 20 years in luxury watches and thousands of 5-star Google reviews.

Try the Bulova CURV in Miami

The curve is easiest to understand on the wrist. Visit our showroom at 2371 NW 20th St, Miami, FL 33142, open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free parking and on-site security. We are a short drive from Brickell, Downtown Miami, Wynwood, Coral Gables, Doral and Miami Beach, and our team can show you the 98A162 next to other Bulova chronographs so you can compare size and style.

Shop the Bulova CURV Chronograph 98A162

BULOVA 98A162 CURV CHRONOGRAPH BLACK DIAL MEN'S WATCH

$735.00 $1,050.00

44 mm gray titanium and stainless steel chronograph with the world's first curved chronograph movement, 262 kHz high-performance quartz, dark gray exhibition dial with rose gold-tone accents, double-curved sapphire crystal, exhibition case back and black rubber strap. Water resistant to 30 m.

Shop Now

Ready to Own the Bulova CURV?

The Bulova CURV 98A162 is proof that innovation still matters in watchmaking. Its curved movement is a genuine engineering achievement, its titanium and steel case and sapphire crystal are premium for the price, and its dark gray and rose gold design looks just as good at the office as it does on the weekend.

The decision comes down to three things: whether your wrist suits a 44 mm watch, whether you are happy with 30 m water resistance, and whether you want a watch whose engineering is part of its story. If the answer is yes, there is no better time to buy it than at $735, about 30% below list price.

Buy the Bulova CURV 98A162 Now

Final Thoughts

Most listings for the Bulova 98A162 repeat a few lines of specs. We wrote this guide to answer what buyers actually want to know: it uses a genuinely curved 262 kHz quartz chronograph movement, its dial is a very dark gray that reads almost black, it measures 44 mm and wears smaller than a flat case, it is not suitable for swimming, and at $735 it offers a world-first watch technology for well under $1,000. For buyers who want a modern, conversation-starting chronograph, it is an easy recommendation.

Bulova chronographs currently available at Lexor Miami:

Bulova CURV Chronograph 98A162 – $735 (featured)
Bulova CURV Chronograph 96K117 – $1,450
Bulova Racer Chronograph 98B468 – $695
Bulova 98B451 – $995
Bulova Shelby Daytona Coupe 96K118 Limited Edition – $1,425

Want to see more? Browse our full Bulova watches collection or our limited edition watches.

Shop the CURV 98A162 at Lexor Miami

Frequently Asked Questions About the Bulova CURV 98A162

What is special about the Bulova CURV movement?

The Bulova CURV uses what Bulova describes as the world's first curved chronograph movement. Instead of placing a flat movement inside a curved case, the movement itself follows the arc of the case, so the watch wraps around the wrist more comfortably. It runs on Bulova's 262 kHz high-performance quartz technology, about eight times the frequency of standard quartz.

Is the Bulova 98A162 dial black or gray?

The 98A162 is often listed as a black dial watch, but Bulova describes it as a dark gray exhibition dial with rose gold-tone accents. In person, it reads as a very dark smoky gray that looks almost black in low light, with part of the dial open to show the movement.

Is the Bulova CURV 98A162 too big at 44 mm?

It is a large watch and suits wrists of about 6.75 inches (170 mm) and up best. However, the curved case and titanium construction make it wear smaller and lighter than a flat 44 mm chronograph. If you have a smaller wrist, consider Bulova's 41 mm CURV models.

Can I swim with the Bulova CURV 98A162?

No. The 98A162 is water resistant to 30 meters (3 ATM), which covers splashes, rain and hand-washing only. Avoid swimming, showering, hot tubs and diving.

How much does the Bulova CURV 98A162 cost?

The Bulova 98A162 has a list price of $1,050. At Lexor Miami it is currently available for $735, a saving of $315 (about 30%), brand new with original packaging and manufacturer's warranty.

Where can I buy the Bulova CURV 98A162 in Miami?

Lexor Miami carries the Bulova CURV 98A162 at our showroom at 2371 NW 20th St, Miami, FL 33142, open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can also order online with free shipping on items priced at $150 or more within the 48 contiguous United States.