Rolex 1908 vs Rolex GMT-Master II
Ref. M52508-0006 vs Ref. M126718GRNR-0001
The Rolex 1908 and Rolex GMT-Master II both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex 1908 as a dress watch and the Rolex GMT-Master II as a gmt / travel watch. At $27,100 and $44,750 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
1908
Rolex
GMT-Master II
At retail, the Rolex 1908 is listed at $27,100 while the Rolex GMT-Master II comes in at $44,750. At $17,650 less (65% savings), the Rolex 1908 offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex 1908 trades around $20,000 and the Rolex GMT-Master II around $67,125, a difference of $47,125 favoring the Rolex 1908. Available at 26% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex GMT-Master II commands an even stronger market premium of +50.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex GMT-Master II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex GMT-Master II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 13.1mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | 18ct yellow gold, domed and fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in green and black |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 3285 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 66 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Alligator leather strap | Jubilee, five-piece links in 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | 18ct yellow gold folding Oysterclasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex GMT-Master II leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 165ft), and the Rolex GMT-Master II offers longer power reserve at 70 hours. With 7 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 Rolex 1908 costs $513 versus $1,678 for the Rolex GMT-Master II. For water resistance, the Rolex 1908 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex 1908 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex 1908 if you value a lower entry price. Go with the Rolex GMT-Master II if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex GMT-Master II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex 1908 or the Rolex GMT-Master II?
The Rolex 1908 is more accessible, priced at $27,100 compared to $44,750.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex GMT-Master II has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex GMT-Master II currently trades at 50.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex 1908 and Rolex GMT-Master II compare in size?
The Rolex 1908 measures 39mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, while the Rolex GMT-Master II is 40mm by 13.1mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 165ft versus 100m / 330ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex 1908 uses the Rolex calibre 7140 with 66 hours power reserve, while the Rolex GMT-Master II runs on the Rolex calibre 3285 offering 70 hours of power reserve.