Omega Speedmaster '57 vs Rolex 1908
Ref. 332.12.41.51.01.001 vs Ref. M52508-0006
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster '57 to the Rolex 1908 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $8,700 versus $27,100, 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
Speedmaster '57
Rolex
1908
At retail, the Omega Speedmaster '57 is listed at $8,700 while the Rolex 1908 comes in at $27,100. The Omega Speedmaster '57 comes in at $18,400 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Omega Speedmaster '57 trades around $7,395 and the Rolex 1908 around $20,000, a difference of $12,605 favoring the Omega Speedmaster '57. Available at 15% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex 1908 shows a more modest market premium of -26.2%, though currently trending downward. For investors, the Rolex 1908 edges ahead with a flip potential score of 3/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster '57 | Rolex 1908 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40.5mm | 39mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.99mm | 10.4mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Stainless steel bezel with tachymetre scale | 18ct yellow gold, domed and fluted |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal front and caseback | Sapphire, domed |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 50m / 165ft |
| Movement | Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 9906 | Rolex calibre 7140 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 60 hours | 66 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Brown leather strap | Alligator leather strap |
| Clasp | Steel buckle | 18ct yellow gold folding Oysterclasp |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex 1908 offers longer power reserve at 66 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster '57 uses Stainless steel while the Rolex 1908 opts for 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 Speedmaster '57 costs $183 versus $513 for the Rolex 1908. For water resistance, the Omega Speedmaster '57 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Omega Speedmaster '57 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Speedmaster '57 if you value a lower entry price, better value retention, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex 1908 if you prioritize stronger flip potential. For pure investment potential, the Rolex 1908 has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster '57 or the Rolex 1908?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 is more accessible, priced at $8,700 compared to $27,100.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex 1908 has a higher flip potential score of 3/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 currently trades at 15.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster '57 and Rolex 1908 compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 measures 40.5mm in diameter and 12.99mm thick, while the Rolex 1908 is 39mm by 10.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 167ft versus 50m / 165ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 uses the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 9906 with 60 hours power reserve, while the Rolex 1908 runs on the Rolex calibre 7140 offering 66 hours of power reserve.