Omega Speedmaster Racing vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. 329.30.44.51.04.001 vs Ref. M126618LN-0002
Comparing the Omega Speedmaster Racing to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $8,300 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 Racing
Rolex
Submariner Date
At retail, the Omega Speedmaster Racing is listed at $8,300 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $42,400. The Omega Speedmaster Racing comes in at $34,100 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Omega Speedmaster Racing trades around $7,055 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $40,000, a difference of $32,945 favoring the Omega Speedmaster Racing. 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 Racing | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 44.25mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.38mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Anodized aluminium bezel ring with tachymetre scale | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal front and caseback | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 9900 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 60 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel bracelet | Oyster, three-piece solid links in 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | Adjustable clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Omega Speedmaster Racing 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 Racing costs $159 versus $976 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Omega Speedmaster Racing delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Omega Speedmaster Racing offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Omega Speedmaster Racing 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 Racing or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Omega Speedmaster Racing is more accessible, priced at $8,300 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 Racing and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Omega Speedmaster Racing measures 44.25mm in diameter and 14.38mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Omega Speedmaster Racing uses the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 9900 with 60 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.