Omega Seamaster Diver 300M vs Rolex Sea-Dweller
Ref. 2531.80.00 vs Ref. M126603-0001
Comparing the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M to the Rolex Sea-Dweller means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$3,800 (market value) versus $19,450, 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 ~$3,800 (market value) while the Rolex Sea-Dweller comes in at $19,450. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M trades around $3,800 and the Rolex Sea-Dweller around $24,313, a difference of $20,513 favoring the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M. This watch trades at 36% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Rolex Sea-Dweller also shows a healthy market premium of +25.0%, with upward momentum. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 6/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Seamaster Diver 300M | Rolex Sea-Dweller |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm | 43mm |
| Case Thickness | 12mm | 14.7mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Blue unidirectional rotating bezel with diving scale | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 1220m / 4000ft |
| Movement | Omega calibre 1120 (base ETA 2892-A2) | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 44 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, three-piece solid links in Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| 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 70 hours, and the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Sea-Dweller opts for Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold. 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 $93 versus $565 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 a lower entry price, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. Go with the Rolex Sea-Dweller if you prioritize serious diving capabilities.
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 ~$3,800 (market value) compared to $19,450.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M currently trades at 35.7% 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 43mm by 14.7mm. 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 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.