Omega Speedmaster '57 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. 332.12.41.51.01.001 vs Ref. M126618LN-0002
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster '57 to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $8,700 versus $42,400, 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
Submariner Date
At retail, the Omega Speedmaster '57 is listed at $8,700 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $42,400. The Omega Speedmaster '57 comes in at $33,700 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 Submariner Date around $40,000, a difference of $32,605 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 Submariner Date commands an even stronger market premium of -5.7%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 3/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Omega Speedmaster '57 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40.5mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.99mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Stainless steel bezel with tachymetre scale | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal front and caseback | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 167ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 9906 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 60 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Brown leather strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links in 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | Steel buckle | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 50m / 167ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster '57 uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Submariner Date 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 $976 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date 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, timing functionality. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner Date has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Omega Speedmaster '57 or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 is more accessible, priced at $8,700 compared to $42,400.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Rolex Submariner Date currently trades at 5.7% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Omega Speedmaster '57 and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster '57 measures 40.5mm in diameter and 12.99mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 167ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
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 Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.