Rolex 1908 vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. M52508-0006 vs Ref. M136660-0005
The Rolex 1908 and Rolex Rolex Deepsea both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex 1908 as a dress watch and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea as a dive watch. At $27,100 and $15,200 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
1908
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
At retail, the Rolex 1908 is listed at $27,100 while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. At $11,900 less (78% savings), the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex 1908 trades around $20,000 and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea around $16,500, a difference of $3,500 favoring the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. Available at 26% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea commands an even stronger market premium of +8.6%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex Rolex Deepsea |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 17.7mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | 18ct yellow gold, domed and fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 3900m / 12800ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 66 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Alligator leather strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | 18ct yellow gold folding Oysterclasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 50m / 165ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex 1908 uses 18ct yellow gold while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea opts for Oystersteel. 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 Rolex 1908 costs $513 versus $375 for the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex 1908 if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex 1908 or the Rolex Rolex Deepsea?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea is more accessible, priced at $15,200 compared to $27,100.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea has a higher flip potential score of 5/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea currently trades at 8.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex 1908 and Rolex Rolex Deepsea compare in size?
The Rolex 1908 measures 39mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is 44mm by 17.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 165ft versus 3900m / 12800ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex 1908 uses the Rolex calibre 7140 with 66 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.