Omega Seamaster Diver 300M vs Rolex Sea-Dweller
Ref. 2254.50.00 vs Ref. 116600
Comparing the Rolex Sea-Dweller to the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$4,000 (market value) versus ~$18,000 (market value), these two watches serve different segments of the market. Here's how they stack up on specifications, value retention, and investment potential.
Price Comparison
Omega
Seamaster Diver 300M
Rolex
Sea-Dweller
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M is priced at ~$4,000 (market value) while the Rolex Sea-Dweller comes in at ~$18,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M trades around $4,000 and the Rolex Sea-Dweller around $18,000, a difference of $14,000 favoring the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M. This watch trades at 25% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Rolex Sea-Dweller commands an even stronger market premium of +58.6%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Sea-Dweller edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 6/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Seamaster Diver 300M | Rolex Sea-Dweller |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12mm | 14.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel unidirectional rotating bezel with diving scale | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 1220m / 4000ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1120 (base ETA 2892-A2) | Rolex calibre 3135 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 44 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Folding clasp with diver extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Sea-Dweller leads in water resistance (1220m / 4000ft vs. 300m / 1000ft), and the Rolex Sea-Dweller offers longer power reserve at 48 hours, and the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Sea-Dweller opts for Oystersteel. With 8 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M costs $98 versus $450 for the Rolex Sea-Dweller. For water resistance, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M if you value serious diving capabilities. Go with the Rolex Sea-Dweller if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Sea-Dweller has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M or the Rolex Sea-Dweller?
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M is more accessible, priced at ~$4,000 (market value) compared to ~$18,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Sea-Dweller has a higher flip potential score of 9/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller currently trades at 58.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M and Rolex Sea-Dweller compare in size?
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M measures 41mm in diameter and 12mm thick, while the Rolex Sea-Dweller is 40mm by 14.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 300m / 1000ft versus 1220m / 4000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M uses the Omega calibre 1120 (base ETA 2892-A2) with 44 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Sea-Dweller runs on the Rolex calibre 3135 offering 48 hours of power reserve.