Bulova 98B104
Bulova Marine Star 98B104 Chronograph Quartz Watch User Manual
Model: 98B104
Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 Chronograph Quartz Watch. This timepiece combines precision quartz movement with a robust chronograph function, designed for both style and performance. This manual provides essential instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your watch to ensure its longevity and accurate timekeeping.

Image 1: The Bulova Marine Star 98B104 watch displayed against a blue water background, highlighting its marine-inspired design and rose gold-tone accents.
Your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 features a rose gold-tone stainless steel case, a black patterned dial, luminous hands, a calendar function, and a comfortable black silicone strap. It is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet).
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the key components of your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 watch.

Image 2: Front view of the Bulova Marine Star 98B104 watch, showcasing its rose gold-tone case, black dial with Roman numerals, three subdials, and black silicone strap. The crown and pushers are visible on the right side of the case.
Key Components:
- Crown: Used for setting the time and date. Located on the right side of the watch case.
- Pushers: Buttons located above and below the crown, used to operate the chronograph functions.
- Hour, Minute, Second Hands: Indicate the current time. The main large second hand is for the chronograph.
- Subdials: Three smaller dials on the main face, typically for chronograph minutes, chronograph seconds (small running second hand), and a 24-hour indicator.
- Date Window: Displays the current date, usually located at the 4 o'clock position.
- Bezel: The outer ring of the watch face, featuring minute markers.
- Mineral Crystal: The protective cover over the watch dial.
- Silicone Strap: Durable and comfortable strap for wearing the watch.
Setup
Setting the Time:
- Pull the crown out to position 2 (the outermost position). The small running second hand will stop.
- Rotate the crown to move the hour and minute hands to the desired time. Ensure the AM/PM is correctly set if your watch has a 24-hour subdial or if setting the date.
- Push the crown back into position 0 (normal operating position). The small running second hand will resume movement.
Setting the Date:
- Pull the crown out to position 1 (the first click).
- Rotate the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise (depending on the movement) until the correct date appears in the date window.
- Once the date is set, push the crown back into position 0.
- Important: Avoid setting the date between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM, as this can interfere with the date change mechanism. If you need to set the date during this period, first set the time outside this range, adjust the date, then reset the time.
Operating the Chronograph
Your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 is equipped with a chronograph function for measuring elapsed time.
- Top Pusher (A): Starts and stops the chronograph.
- Bottom Pusher (B): Resets the chronograph.
Basic Chronograph Operation:
- To start the chronograph, press Pusher A. The large second hand (chronograph second hand) will begin to move, along with the chronograph minute subdial.
- To stop the chronograph, press Pusher A again. The elapsed time will be indicated by the chronograph second and minute hands.
- To reset the chronograph, press Pusher B. All chronograph hands will return to their zero positions.
Measuring Split Times (if applicable):
This model typically does not feature a split-time function. The chronograph is designed for standard start, stop, and reset operations.
Maintenance
Water Resistance:
Your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 watch is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet). This rating means it is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and recreational diving.
- Do NOT operate the crown or pushers while the watch is wet or submerged. This can compromise the water resistance.
- After exposure to saltwater, rinse the watch with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- Water resistance is not a permanent condition and may eventually be affected by the aging of gaskets or accidental shocks to the crown or case. It is recommended to have the water resistance checked periodically by an authorized service center.
Battery Replacement:
This watch is powered by a Lithium Ion battery. When the battery power is low, the small running second hand may start moving in two-second intervals (End-of-Life indicator).
- Battery replacement should be performed by a qualified watch technician to ensure proper sealing and maintain water resistance.
- Do not attempt to replace the battery yourself, as this may damage the movement or compromise the watch's water resistance.
Cleaning and Care:
- Wipe the watch case and crystal regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- For the silicone strap, you can gently clean it with mild soap and water, then rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures, strong magnetic fields, or harsh chemicals (e.g., solvents, detergents, perfumes), as these can damage the watch's components or finish.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Watch not running or running intermittently. | Depleted battery. | Replace the battery at an authorized service center. |
| Date does not change at midnight. | Time is set incorrectly (e.g., AM/PM). | Adjust the time, ensuring the 12-hour cycle is correct. The date typically changes around midnight. |
| Chronograph hands do not reset to zero. | Requires chronograph hand adjustment. | Chronograph Hand Zero Position Adjustment:
|
| Condensation inside the crystal. | Compromised water resistance or extreme temperature change. | Seek immediate service from an authorized technician to prevent internal damage. |
If you experience any issues not listed here, or if the suggested solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact Bulova customer support or an authorized service center.
Specifications
| Model Number | 98B104 |
| Movement Type | Quartz Chronograph |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel with Rose Gold-Tone and Black Ion-Plated Finish |
| Crystal Type | Mineral Crystal |
| Dial Color | Black with Luminous Hands and Markers |
| Strap Material | Black Silicone |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters (330 feet) |
| Functions | Time (Hour, Minute, Small Second), Chronograph (Seconds, Minutes), Date |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion (included) |
Warranty Information
Your Bulova Marine Star 98B104 watch comes with a 3-Year Limited Warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
The warranty does not cover:
- Damage resulting from improper handling, lack of care, accidents, or normal wear and tear.
- Water damage if the watch was opened, or if the crown/pushers were operated while wet.
- Battery replacement (though the original battery is included).
- Damage to the strap or crystal.
- Unauthorized repairs or modifications.
For warranty service, please retain your proof of purchase and contact an authorized Bulova service center.
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to locate an authorized service center, please visit the official Bulova website or contact their customer service department.
Bulova Official Website: www.bulova.com
Customer Service: Refer to the Bulova website for regional contact information.
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