1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Bulova 98B428 Racer Chronograph Watch. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your new timepiece. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your watch.
2. Product Overview
2.1 Key Features
- Movement: Quartz
- Display: Chronograph with 24-hour sub-dial
- Case Material: Black-plated Stainless Steel
- Strap Material: Black Leather with Tang Buckle
- Crystal: Sapphire Glass
- Water Resistance: 100 Meters (suitable for swimming and snorkeling, not diving)
- Special Functions: Chronograph, Calendar (Date), Luminous Hands and Markers, Tachymeter
- Case Diameter: 42 mm
- Case Thickness: 13 mm
2.2 Watch Components
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Bulova 98B428 watch:
Image: Front view of the Bulova 98B428 Racer Chronograph Watch, showcasing the black dial with orange accents, chronograph sub-dials, and tachymeter scale.
Image: Side view of the Bulova 98B428 watch, showing the crown and chronograph pushers on the right side of the case.
Image: Rear view of the Bulova 98B428 watch, displaying the stainless steel case back with engraved details such as water resistance and model number, and the black leather strap.
- Crown: Used for setting time and date.
- Pushers (A & B): Used to operate the chronograph functions.
- Dial: Main display with hour, minute, and second hands, sub-dials, and date window.
- Tachymeter Scale: Located on the outer bezel, used for measuring speed.
2.3 Included Components
Image: The Bulova 98B428 watch presented in its gift box, featuring a tire-tread inspired watch holder.
- Bulova 98B428 Racer Chronograph Watch
- Gift Box
- Warranty Information
3. Setup
3.1 Setting the Time
- Pull the crown out to position 2 (the furthest position). The second hand will stop.
- Turn the crown to set the hour and minute hands. Ensure the AM/PM is correctly set by observing the 24-hour sub-dial.
- Push the crown back to position 0 (normal position) to start the watch.
3.2 Setting the Date
- Pull the crown out to position 1 (the first click).
- Turn the crown clockwise or counter-clockwise to set the date. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this may interfere with the date change mechanism.
- Push the crown back to position 0 (normal position).
3.3 Chronograph Hand Zero Reset
If the chronograph hands (seconds, minutes) do not return to the zero position after resetting, they may need to be calibrated:
- Pull the crown out to position 2.
- Press pusher A (top pusher) repeatedly to advance the chronograph second hand to the 12 o'clock position.
- Press pusher B (bottom pusher) repeatedly to advance the chronograph minute hand to the 12 o'clock position.
- Once all chronograph hands are aligned to zero, push the crown back to position 0.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Using the Chronograph
The chronograph function allows you to measure elapsed time.
- Start: Press pusher A to start the chronograph. The chronograph second hand will begin to move.
- Stop: Press pusher A again to stop the chronograph. The elapsed time will be indicated by the chronograph hands.
- Reset: After stopping, press pusher B to reset all chronograph hands to their zero positions.
4.2 Using the Tachymeter
The tachymeter scale on the bezel can be used to measure speed over a known distance (e.g., 1 kilometer or 1 mile).
- Start the chronograph at the beginning of the measured distance.
- Stop the chronograph when you reach the end of the distance.
- The position of the chronograph second hand on the tachymeter scale indicates the average speed per hour. For example, if it takes 30 seconds to cover 1 unit of distance, the hand will point to 120 on the tachymeter scale, indicating a speed of 120 units per hour.
4.3 24-Hour Display
The small sub-dial typically located at the 3 o'clock position indicates the time in a 24-hour format, which is useful for distinguishing between AM and PM when setting the main time.
4.4 Luminous Features
Image: The Bulova 98B428 watch dial in darkness, showing the luminous hands and hour markers glowing brightly for visibility.
The hands and hour markers of your Bulova 98B428 watch are treated with a luminous material. After exposure to light, these elements will glow in the dark, providing visibility in low-light conditions. The intensity and duration of the glow depend on the exposure time and intensity of light.
5. Maintenance and Care
5.1 Water Resistance
Your Bulova 98B428 watch is water resistant to 100 meters (10 ATM). This means it is suitable for everyday use, swimming, and snorkeling. It is not suitable for high-impact water sports or scuba diving.
- Ensure the crown is always pushed in completely to maintain water resistance.
- Do not operate the crown or pushers while the watch is wet or submerged in water.
- After exposure to saltwater, rinse the watch with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
5.2 Cleaning Your Watch
To maintain the appearance of your watch:
- Wipe the case and crystal with a soft, dry cloth regularly.
- For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth and mild soap, then wipe dry.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the watch's finish.
5.3 Battery Life and Replacement
Your watch is powered by a quartz movement, which uses a battery. The typical battery life is 2-3 years. When the battery needs replacement, it is recommended to take your watch to an authorized Bulova service center or a reputable watchmaker to ensure proper battery installation and maintenance of water resistance.
5.4 Leather Strap Care
The leather strap is susceptible to wear and tear. To prolong its life:
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture.
- Clean the strap with a soft, damp cloth and allow it to air dry naturally.
- Avoid contact with cosmetics, oils, and chemical products.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Watch stops or runs intermittently. | Low battery. | Replace the battery. |
| Time or date is incorrect. | Incorrectly set, or crown is not fully pushed in. | Refer to Section 3.1 and 3.2 to reset time and date. Ensure crown is in position 0. |
| Chronograph hands do not reset to zero. | Chronograph hands need calibration. | Refer to Section 3.3 for chronograph hand zero reset. |
| Condensation appears under the crystal. | Temperature change or water ingress. | Contact an authorized service center immediately. Do not attempt to open the watch. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 98B428 |
| Movement Type | Quartz |
| Case Material | Black-plated Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 42 Millimeters |
| Case Thickness | 13 Millimeters |
| Crystal Material | Sapphire Glass |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Strap Material | Leather |
| Strap Color | Black |
| Strap Width | 21 Millimeters |
| Clasp Type | Tang Buckle |
| Water Resistance | 100 Meters (10 ATM) |
| Special Features | Chronograph, Luminous Hands/Markers, 24-Hour Display, Tachymeter, Date Display |
| Item Weight | 100 Grams |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
Your Bulova 98B428 watch comes with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms, conditions, and duration of coverage. The warranty typically covers manufacturing defects but does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, or damage resulting from improper use.
8.2 Customer Support
For any questions, service, or repair needs not covered in this manual, please contact an authorized Bulova service center or the retailer from whom you purchased the watch. Do not attempt to open or repair the watch yourself, as this may void the warranty and cause further damage.